DESC:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
[See section 10, Rule 13]

A FOOT SUPPORTING ELEMENT OF A VEHICLE

HERO MOTOCORP LIMITED, an Indian Company at: The Grand Plaza, Plot No.2, Nelson Mandela Road, Vasant Kunj- Phase -II, New Delhi, India, 110 070

THEFOLLOWINGSPECIFICATION PARTICULARLY DESCRIBES THE INVENTION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS TO BE PERFORMED.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
[001] The present invention relates to a foot supporting element of a vehicle, particularly, a foot supporting element of a two wheeler.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
[002] A pillion step or a foot supporting element is provided in a two wheeled vehicle for resting a foot of the traveller of the two-wheeler. Initially, the most common material used for manufacturing pillion steps was metal, due to its high strength and durability. However, metal steps are more prone to rust and corrosion. Additionally, metal pillion steps can be heavy and expensive to produce, which can be a disadvantage for manufacturers and riders alike.

[003] Solid plastic pillion step offered a potential solution to some of the above issues. Solid plastic pillion steps are lighter. However, the solid plastic pillion step, are not aesthetically pleasing making the plastic pillion step visually unappealing. In addition, if efforts are made to make plastic pillion visually appealing, the strength of the plastic pillion may get compromised.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[004] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features.

[005] The present invention provides a foot supporting element of a vehicle. The foot supporting element comprising a coupling portion for coupling the foot supporting element to a frame member of the vehicle and a foot resting portion extending from the coupling portion. The foot resting portion comprising an upper member extended from the coupling portion and being adapted to receive a foot of a traveller of a vehicle, a lower member extended from the coupling portion and being spaced apart from the top surface and a plurality of strengthening members interconnecting the upper member and the lower member.

[006] In an embodiment of the invention, the foot resting portion comprises the upper member comprises a top surface comprising plurality of elevated portions and plurality of depressed portions, the elevated portions and the depressed portions being arranged alternatively along a length direction of the foot supporting element .

[007] In an embodiment of the invention, the upper member comprises a top surface comprising plurality of elevated portions, the plurality of elevated portions comprise a first elevated portion, an Nth elevated portion , and at least one further elevated portion. The first elevated portion being closest to the coupling portion, the Nth elevated portion being farthest to the coupling portion and each of the at least one further elevated portion being located between the first elevated portion and the Nth elevated portion. In an embodiment of the invention, a size of the first elevated portion being greater than a size of the Nth elevated portion and a size of the at least one further elevated portion being equal to or lesser than the size of the first elevated portion being equal to or greater than the size of the Nth elevated portion .

[008] In an embodiment of the invention, the plurality of strengthening members comprises a plurality of type-1 strengthening members extending from the plurality of depressed portions and a plurality of type-2 strengthening members extending from the plurality of depressed portions.

[009] In an embodiment of the invention, the plurality of type-1 strengthening members interconnecting a bottom surface of the upper member and a top surface of the lower member along a first direction and the plurality of type-2 strengthening members interconnecting the bottom surface of the upper member and the top surface of the lower member along a second direction.

[0010] In an embodiment of the invention, an angle between the first direction and second direction being in a range of 60o to 120o.

[0011] In an embodiment of the invention, the plurality of type-1strengthening members comprises a first pair of type-1 strengthening members, an Nth pair of type-1 strengthening members, and at least one further pair of type-1 strengthening members. The first pair of type-1 strengthening members being closest to the coupling portion, the Nth pair of type-1 strengthening members being farthest to the coupling portion and each of the at least one further pair of type-1 strengthening members being located between the first pair of type-1 strengthening members and the Nth pair of type-1 strengthening members. In an embodiment of the invention, a spacing between the first pair of type-1 strengthening members being greater than a spacing between the Nth pair of type-1 strengthening members and spacing between the at least one further pair of type-1 strengthening members being equal to or lesser than the spacing between the first pair of type-1 strengthening member and being equal to or greater than the spacing between the Nth pair of type-1 strengthening member.

[0012] In an embodiment of the invention, the plurality of type-2 strengthening members comprises a first pair of type-2 strengthening members, an Nth pair of type-2 strengthening members and at least one further pair of type-2 strengthening members. The first pair of type-2 strengthening members being closest to the coupling portion, the Nth pair of type-2 strengthening members being farthest to the coupling portion and each of the at least one further pair of type-2 strengthening members being located between the first pair of type-2 strengthening members and the Nth pair of type-2 strengthening member. In an embodiment of the invention, a spacing between a first pair of type-2 strengthening member being greater than a spacing between a Nth pair of type-2 strengthening member and a spacing between the at least one further pair of type-2 strengthening members being equal to or lesser than the spacing between the first pair of type-2 strengthening members and being equal to or greater than the spacing between the Nth pair of type-2 strengthening members.

[0013] In an embodiment of the invention, a proximal end of the first type-1 strengthening member being connected at a first location on the bottom surface of the upper member. Further, a proximal end of the second type-1 strengthening member and a proximal end of the first type-2 strengthening member being connected at a second location on the bottom surface of the upper member. Further, a proximal end of the third type-1 strengthening member and a proximal end of the second type-2 strengthening member being connected at a third location on the bottom surface of the upper member. Further, a proximal end of the fourth type-1 strengthening member and a proximal end of the third type-2 strengthening member being connected at a fourth location on the bottom surface of the upper member. Further, a proximal end of the fifth type-1 strengthening member and a proximal end of the fourth type-2 strengthening member being connected at a fifth location on the bottom surface of the upper member and a proximal end of the Nth type-2 strengthening member being connected at an nth location on the bottom surface of the upper member .

[0014] In an embodiment of the invention, a first depressed portion located above the first location on the bottom surface of the upper member, a second depressed portion located above the second location on the bottom surface of the upper member, a third depressed portion located above the third location on the bottom surface of the upper member, a fourth depressed portion located above the fourth location on the bottom surface of the upper member, a fifth depressed portion located above the fifth location on the bottom surface of the upper member and a sixth depressed portion located above the sixth location on the bottom surface of the upper member .

[0015] In an embodiment of the invention, the foot resting portion comprises a side member interconnecting a distal portion of the upper member and a distal portion of the lower member and at least one front member interconnecting a part of the side member to a part of the coupling portion.

[0016] One advantage is that the foot supporting element is provided with the plurality of strengthening members i.e. type-1 strengthening members and type-2 strengthening members which provides improved strength or load bearing capacity.

[0017] Another advantage is that the arrangement, spacing, and orientation of type-1 and type-2 strengthening members within the foot supporting element is such that it provide both strength as well as aesthetic appeal to the foot supporting element.

[0018] Another advantage is that the density distribution of type-1 strengthening members and type-2 strengthening members helps in better load bearing capacity at the side member or the location farthest from the coupling portion of the foot supporting element, thereby reducing the degree of deformity or deflection at the side member or the location farthest from the coupling portion.

[0019] Another advantage of the invention is that the foot supporting element is provided with an alternate pattern of elevated portions and depressed portions which provides resistance to the traveller’s foot from slipping off the foot supporting element. Further the downtrend in sizing of the elevated portion from the elevated portion to Nth elevated portion provides additional resistance to the traveller’s foot from slipping off the foot supporting element.

[0020] Another advantage is that the foot supporting element maintains the shape, size, load bearing capacity of the foot supporting element for longer duration, even after prolonged use and also continue to be local law’s/compliance norm’s compliant.

[0021] Another advantage is that the foot supporting element remains effective for prolonged time, thereby inherently reducing the burden of constantly replacing the foot supporting element after being worn out. This directly implies that the foot supporting element has longer life span and reduced out-pocket expenses to the customers.

[0022] To further clarify the advantages and features of the invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES:
[0023] In order that the invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to exemplary embodiments as illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views. The figures together with a detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate the embodiments and explain various principles and advantages, in accordance with the present invention where:

[0024] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of the vehicle with a foot supporting element, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of the foot supporting element ,in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 3illustrates a perspective view of the foot supporting element, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of the foot supporting element, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 5illustrates a perspective view of the foot supporting element, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 6 illustrates a foot resting portion of the foot supporting element, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 7 illustrates a foot resting portion of the foot supporting element, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 8 illustrates a top view of foot supporting element, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 9 illustrates a foot resting portion of the foot supporting element, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 10 illustrates a foot resting portion of the foot supporting element, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 11 illustrates a foot resting portion of the foot supporting element, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 12 illustrates a foot resting portion of the foot supporting element, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 13 illustrates a foot resting portion of the foot supporting element, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] It may be noted that to the extent possible, like reference numerals have been used to represent like elements in the drawings. Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, one or more elements may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

Detailed Description of the Invention:
[0038] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

[0039] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[0040] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,”“an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0041] Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0042] The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover anon-exclusive inclusion, such that one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.

[0043] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the terms "coupled to", “connected to”, “operably connected to”, and “operatively connected to” are intended to include both direct connection / coupling (in which two elements that are coupled / connected to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling / connection (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used synonymously. Similarly, the terms “connected to” and “connected with” are used synonymously.

[0044] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one ordinary skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. The device, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0045] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-mentioned element as being essential to the practice of the invention.

[0046] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used.

[0047] While the present invention is illustrated in the context of a vehicle, however, cover and aspects and features thereof can be used with other types of vehicles as well. The terms “vehicle”, “two wheeled vehicle” and “motorcycle” have been interchangeably used throughout the description. The term “vehicle” comprises vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, scooter type vehicles, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV) and the like.

[0048] The terms “front / forward”, “rear / rearward / back / backward”, “up / upper / top”, “down / lower / lower ward / downward, bottom”, “left / leftward”, “right / rightward” used therein represents the directions as seen from a vehicle driver sitting astride and these directions are referred by arrows Fr, Rr, U, Lr, L, R in the Figures.

[0049] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] Referring to Figure 1, there is illustrated a first side view of a vehicle (10) that comprises a front end structure (12), a rear end structure (14), and a footboard (16). The front end structure (12) forms the front portion of the vehicle (10). The rear end structure (14) forms the rear portion of the vehicle (10). The footboard (16) lies between the front-end structure (12) and the rear end structure (14). The footboard (16) provides footrest for a rider riding the vehicle (10).

[0051] The front-end structure (12) comprises a front ground engaging member (18), and a steering mechanism (20). The front ground engaging member (18) is operatively connected to the steering mechanism (20). In the illustrated example, the front ground engaging member (18) embodies a wheel. Alternatively, the front ground engaging member (18) embodies a track, without limiting the scope of the invention. The steering mechanism (20) comprises a head pipe (22) supporting a front fork (24) in a steerable manner and a handlebar (26) for steering the front fork (24). The handlebar (26) is configured to be rotated by the rider to steer the vehicle (10). The vehicle (10) further comprises a frame member (Not shown) supporting the front-end structure (12), the footboard (16), and the rear end structure (14).

[0052] Further, the front-end structure (12) comprises a front cover (28) and a leg shield (30) at least partially covering the head pipe (22). The leg shield (30) provides protection for the feet of the rider of the vehicle (10). The front end structure (12) further comprises a dash assembly (not shown). The dash assembly comprises a display unit (not shown). The display unit displays information about the vehicle (10) to the rider. The dash assembly may comprise additional components such as LCD, GPS, graphical user interface (GUI), etc. without limiting the scope of the invention. The dash assembly is supported on the handlebar (26). The front end structure (12) may further comprise additional components such as handle cover, windscreen, headlight, mirror (s), turn indicator(s), etc. without limiting the scope of the invention.

[0053] The rear end structure (14) comprises a seat (32) supported by the frame member extending in a rearward and downward direction of the vehicle (10) from the head pipe (22). The seat (32) provides support for a rider of the vehicle (10) for seating. A power unit (not visible) is disposed below the seat (32) for providing power to the vehicle (10). A rear ground engaging member (34) underling the seat (32) and is driven by the power unit. The power unit may be any of an internal combustion engine or an electrical powering unit, such as a motor. In the illustrated example, the rear ground engaging member (34) embodies a wheel. Alternatively, the rear ground engaging member (34) embodies a track, without limiting the scope of the invention.

[0054] Further, the rear end structure (14) comprises foot supporting element (100) for helping a pillion rider to keep legs in resting position while the vehicle (10) is in running state. It may be noted that the vehicle (10) is shown to have included above stated parts, however, those skilled in the art would appreciate that the vehicle (10) includes other parts which may not be relevant for explaining the present invention and hence are not shown and described.

[0055] Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3,afoot supporting element (100) of a vehicle (10), said foot supporting element (100) comprises a coupling portion (102) for coupling the foot supporting element (100) to a frame member (Not shown) of the vehicle (10) and a foot resting portion (104) extending from the coupling portion (102). The foot resting portion (104) comprising an upper member (106) extended from the coupling portion(102) and being adapted to receive a foot of a traveller of a vehicle (10), a lower member (108) extended from the coupling portion(102) and being spaced apart from the top surface (106) and a plurality of strengthening members (110) interconnecting the upper member (106) and the lower member (108).

[0056] Referring to Figure 4 and 5, the foot resting portion (104) comprises a side member (112) interconnecting a distal portion (114) of the upper member (106) and a distal portion (116) of the lower member (108) and at least one front member (118) interconnecting a part of the side member (112) to a part of the coupling portion (102).

[0057] Referring to Figure 6, the foot resting portion (104) comprises the upper member (106).The upper member comprises a top surface (142) comprising plurality of elevated portions (144) and plurality of depressed portions (146).The elevated portions (144) and the depressed portions (146) being arranged alternatively along a length direction of the foot supporting element (100). This alternate pattern of elevated portions (144) and the depressed portions (146) provides friction to the foot of traveller, thereby providing better support to the foot of the traveller.

[0058] Referring to Figure 7 and 8, the plurality of elevated portions (144) comprise a first elevated portion (1441), an Nth elevated portion (144n), and at least one further elevated portion (1442,1443,… 144n-1).The first elevated portion (1441) being closest to the coupling portion (102) and the Nth elevated portion (144n) being farthest to the coupling portion (102). Each of the at least one further elevated portion (1442,1443,… 144n-1) being located between the first elevated portion (1441) and the Nth elevated portion (144n).

[0059] In an embodiment of the invention, a size of the first elevated portion (1441) being greater than a size of the Nth elevated portion (144n); and a size of the at least one further elevated portion (1442,1443,… 144n-1) being equal to or lesser than the size of the first elevated portion (1441) being equal to or greater than the size of the Nth elevated portion (144n). This downtrend in size of the elevated portion from first elevated portion (1441) to Nth elevated portion (144n) provides friction to the foot of traveller, thereby providing better support to the foot of the traveller.

[0060] In an embodiment of the invention, the foot resting portion (104) is a hollow member with a plurality of strengthening members (110). The hollow foot resting portion (104) reduces the cost of material used to manufacture the foot resting portion (104), which is the primary part of the foot supporting element (100), thereby reducing the cost of manufacturing of foot supporting element (100). Provision of strengthening members (110) in the foot resting portion (104) imparts strength, which was compromised from making the foot resting portion (104) as hollow instead of solid foot resting portion (104). In an embodiment of the invention, foot supporting element (100) is composed of material such as plastic or alike. In an embodiment of the invention, the foot supporting element (100) is composed of glass filled nylon.

[0061] In an embodiment of the invention, the plurality of strengthening members (110) comprises a plurality of type-1 strengthening members (1201, 1202, 1203, …120n) and a plurality of type-2 strengthening members (1221, 1222, 1223, …123n), which are disposed in the manner such that the strength and overall aesthetic appeal at both opening and closing of the foot supporting element can be improved. This necessitates careful selection of placement of the plurality of type-1 strengthening members (1201, 1202, 1203, …120n) and plurality of type-2 strengthening members (1221, 1222, 1223, …123n), the careful selection of spacing between the plurality of type-1 strengthening members (1201, 1202, 1203, …120n) and plurality of type-2 strengthening members (1221, 1222, 1223, …123n) and the careful selection of angle between the plurality of type-1 strengthening members (1201, 1202, 1203, …120n) and plurality of type-2 strengthening members (1221, 1222, 1223, …123n).

[0062] Referring to Figure 9, the plurality of type-1 strengthening members (1201, 1202, 1203,…120n) extends from the plurality of depressed portions (146). For example, the first type-1 strengthening member (1201) being extended from the first depressed portion (1461). The second type-1 strengthening member (1202) being extended from the second depressed portion (1462). The third type-1 strengthening member (1203) being extended from the third depressed portion (1463). The fourth type-1 strengthening member (1204) being extended from the fourth depressed portion (1464). The fifth type-1 strengthening member (1205) being extended from the fifth depressed portion (1465). The sixth type-1 strengthening member (1205) being extended from the sixth depressed portion (1466).

[0063] Referring to Figure 10, the plurality of type-2 strengthening members (1221, 1222, 1223, …123n) extends from the plurality of depressed portions (146).For example, the first type-2 strengthening member (1221) being extended from the second depressed portion (1462). The second type-2 strengthening member(1222) being extended from the third depressed portion (1463). The third type-2 strengthening member(1223) being extended from the fourth depressed portion (1464). The fourth type-2 strengthening member(1224) being extended from the fifth depressed portion (1465).The fifth type-2 strengthening member(1225) being extended from the sixth depressed portion (1466).

[0064] The plurality of type-1 strengthening members (1201, 1202, 1203, …120n) interconnecting a bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106) and a top surface (126) of the lower member (108) along a first direction. The plurality of type-2 strengthening members (1221, 1222, 1223, …123n) interconnecting the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106) and the top surface (126) of the lower member (108) along a second direction.

[0065] In an embodiment of the invention, an angle between the first direction and second direction being in a range of 60o to 120o. The angle is chosen carefully to effectively impart both strength and the aesthetic appeal.

[0066] Referring to Figure 11, the plurality of type-1strengthening members (1201, 1202, 1203, …120n) comprises a first pair of type-1 strengthening members (1201, 1202), an Nth pair of type-1 strengthening members (120n-1, 120n) and at least one further pair of type-1 strengthening members. The first pair of type-1 strengthening members (1201,1202) being closest to the coupling portion (102), the Nth pair of type-1 strengthening members (120n-1, 120n) being farthest to the coupling portion (102) and each of the at least one further pair of type-1 strengthening members being located between the first pair of type-1 strengthening members (1201,1202) and the Nth pair of type-1 strengthening members (120n-1, 120n).

[0067] In an embodiment of the invention, a spacing between the first pair of type-1 strengthening members (1201,1202) being greater than a spacing between the Nth pair of type-1 strengthening members (120n-1, 120n) and spacing between the at least one further pair of type-1 strengthening members being equal to or lesser than the spacing between the first pair of type-1 strengthening member (1201,1202) and being equal to or greater than the spacing between the Nth pair of type-1 strengthening member (120n-1, 120n).

[0068] The plurality of type-2 strengthening members (1221, 1222, 1223, …122n) comprises: a first pair of type-2 strengthening members (1221, 1222), an Nth pair of type-2 strengthening members (122n-1, 122n), and at least one further pair of type-2 strengthening members. The first pair of type-2 strengthening members (1221,1222) being closest to the coupling portion (102) and the Nth pair of type-2 strengthening members (122n-1, 122n) being farthest to the coupling portion (102). Each of the at least one further pair of type-2 strengthening members being located between the first pair of type-2 strengthening members (1221,1222) and the Nth pair of type-2 strengthening member (122n-1, 122n).

[0069] In an embodiment of the invention, a spacing between a first pair of type-2 strengthening member (1221,1222) being greater than a spacing between a Nth pair of type-2 strengthening member (122n-1, 122n); and a spacing between the at least one further pair of type-2 strengthening members being equal to or lesser than the spacing between the first pair of type-2 strengthening members (1221,1222) and being equal to or greater than the spacing between the Nth pair of type-2 strengthening members (122n-1, 122n).

[0070] The reduced spacing between the Nth pair of type-1 strengthening members (120n-1, 120n) disposed closer to the side member (112) than the spacing between the first pair of type-1 strengthening members (1201,1202) implies that density of type-1 strengthening members (1201, 1202, 1203, …120n) is greater at the side member (112)/ farthest from the coupling portion (102) than the density of type-1 strengthening members (1201, 1202, 1203, …120n) closer to the coupling portion (102). Similarly, the reduced spacing between the Nth pair of type-2 strengthening members (122n-1, 122n) disposed closer to the side member (112) than the spacing between the first pair of type-2 strengthening members (1221,1222) implies that density of type-2 strengthening members (1221, 1222, 1223, …122n) is greater at the side member (112)/ farthest from the coupling portion (102) than the density of type-2 strengthening members (1221, 1222, 1223, …122n) closer to the coupling portion (102).

[0071] This density distribution of type-1 strengthening members (1201, 1202, 1203, …120n) and type-2 strengthening members (1221, 1222, 1223, …122n) helps in better load bearing capacity at the side member (112) or the location farthest from the coupling portion (102) of the foot supporting element (100), thereby reducing the degree of deformity or deflection at the side member (112) or the location farthest from the coupling portion (102). This reduction in degree of deformity or deflection at the side member (112) or the location farthest from the coupling portion (102) is imperative for maintaining the shape, size, load bearing capacity of the foot supporting element (100) to remain effective after prolonged use and also to continue to be local law’s/compliance norm’s compliant.

[0072] Remaining effective for prolonged time, inherently reduces the burden of constantly replacing the foot supporting element (100) after being worn out. This directly implies that the foot supporting element (100) has longer life span and reduced out-pocket expenses to the customers.

[0073] Referring to Figure 12, a proximal end (1281) of the first type-1 strengthening member (1201) being connected at a first location (1381) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106), a proximal end (1282) of the second type-1 strengthening member (1202) and a proximal end (1301) of the first type-2 strengthening member (1221) being connected at a second location (1382) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106), a proximal end (1283) of the third type-1 strengthening member(1203) and a proximal end (1302) of the second type-2 strengthening member(1222) being connected at a third location (1383) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106) and a proximal end (1284) of the fourth type-1 strengthening member(1204) and a proximal end (1303) of the third type-2 strengthening member(1223) being connected at a fourth location (1384) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106). Similarly, a proximal end (1285) of the fifth type-1 strengthening member(1205) and a proximal end (1304) of the fourth type-2 strengthening member(1224) being connected at a fifth location (1385) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106) and a proximal end (130n) of the Nth type-2 strengthening member(122n) being connected at an nth location (138n) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106).

[0074] Referring to Figure 13, a first depressed portion (1461) located above the first location (1381) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106),a second depressed portion (1462) located above the second location (1382) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106) and a third depressed portion (1463) located above the third location (1383) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106). In similar fashion, a fourth depressed portion (1464) located above the fourth location (1384) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106), a fifth depressed portion (1465) located above the fifth location (1385) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106) and a sixth depressed portion (1466) located above the sixth location (1386) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106).

[0075] Owing to the meeting/interconnecting of the type-1 strengthening members (1201, 1202, 1203, …120n) and type-2 strengthening members (1221, 1222, 1223, …122n) at locations (1381, 1382, 1383, …138n) and below the depressed portion(1461, 1462, 1463, …146n) helps in even or uniform distribution of the force exerted by the traveller on the foot supporting element (100), thereby improving the strength of the foot supporting element (100)

[0076] The inventors observed that some depression appears on the top surface on the conventionally available plastic foot supporting element, owing to uneven force distribution or gradual loss of load bearing capacity after prolonged use. In order to even out such depressions, rubbing or knurling is used. By adopting rubbing/knurling, material is removed and the top surface’s shape/design changes and the utility of foot supporting element is now compromised as it fails to provide appropriate grip or friction or comfort to the traveller. The foot supporting element (100) of present invention already possess alternate elevated portions (144) and the depressed portions (146), so even when depressions are formed on the top surface, which is least likely taking into the design and strength of the present foot supporting element (100) compared to the conventionally available foot supporting element, then also after knurling or rubbing the top surface is maintained in good physical shape. Due to this the foot supporting element (100) remains effective for prolonged time, thereby inherently reducing the burden of constantly replacing the foot supporting element (100) after being worn out. This directly implies that the foot supporting element has longer life span and reduced out-pocket expenses to the customers.

[0077] In an embodiment of the invention, the load bearing capacity of the foot supporting element (100) is above 170 kg.

[0078] One advantage is that the foot supporting element is provided with the plurality of strengthening members i.e. type-1 strengthening members and type-2 strengthening members which provides improved strength or load bearing capacity.

[0079] Another advantage is that the arrangement, spacing, and orientation of type-1 and type-2 strengthening members within the foot supporting element is such that it provide both strength as well as aesthetic appeal to the foot supporting element.

[0080] Another advantage is that the density distribution of type-1 strengthening members and type-2 strengthening members helps in better load bearing capacity at the side member or the location farthest from the coupling portion of the foot supporting element, thereby reducing the degree of deformity or deflection at the side member or the location farthest from the coupling portion.

[0081] Another advantage of the invention is that the foot supporting element is provided with an alternate pattern of elevated portions and depressed portions which provides resistance to the traveller’s foot from slipping off the foot supporting element. Further the downtrend in sizing of the elevated portion from the elevated portion to Nth elevated portion provides additional resistance to the traveller’s foot from slipping off the foot supporting element.

[0082] Another advantage is that the foot supporting element (100) maintains the shape, size, load bearing capacity of the foot supporting element for longer duration, even after prolonged use and also continue to be local law’s/compliance norm’s compliant.

[0083] Another advantage is that the foot supporting element (100) remains effective for prolonged time, thereby inherently reducing the burden of constantly replacing the foot supporting element (100) after being worn out. This directly implies that the foot supporting element has longer life span and reduced out-pocket expenses to the customers.

[0084] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

[0085] The figures and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples.

[0086] Numerous variations, whether explicitly given in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimension, and use of material, are possible. The scope of embodiments is at least as broad as given by the following claims.
,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM:

1. A foot supporting element (100) of a vehicle (10), said foot supporting element (100) comprising:
a coupling portion (102) for coupling the foot supporting element (100) to a frame member (Not shown) of the vehicle (10); and
a foot resting portion (104) extending from the coupling portion (102), the foot resting portion (104) comprising:
an upper member (106) extended from the coupling portion(102) and being adapted to receive a foot of a traveller of a vehicle (10);
a lower member (108) extended from the coupling portion(102) and being spaced apart from the top surface (106); and
a plurality of strengthening members (110) interconnecting the upper member (106) and the lower member (108).

2. The foot supporting element (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the foot resting portion (104) comprises: the upper member (106) comprises a top surface (142) comprising plurality of elevated portions (144) and plurality of depressed portions (146), the elevated portions (144) and the depressed portions (146) being arranged alternatively along a length direction of the foot supporting element (100).

3. The foot supporting element (100) as claimed in claim1, wherein the upper member (106) comprises a top surface (142) comprising plurality of elevated portions (144) ,the plurality of elevated portions (144) comprise
a first elevated portion (1441), an Nth elevated portion (144n), and at least one further elevated portion (1442,1443,… 144n-1);
the first elevated portion (1441) being closest to the coupling portion (102);
the Nth elevated portion (144n) being farthest to the coupling portion (102);
each of the at least one further elevated portion (1442,1443,… 144n-1) being located between the first elevated portion (1441) and the Nth elevated portion (144n);
a size of the first elevated portion (1441) being greater than a size of the Nth elevated portion (144n); and
a size of the at least one further elevated portion (1442,1443,… 144n-1) being equal to or lesser than the size of the first elevated portion (1441) being equal to or greater than the size of the Nth elevated portion (144n).

4. The foot supporting element (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of strengthening members (110) comprises: a plurality of type-1 strengthening members (1201, 1202, 1203, …120n) extending from the plurality of depressed portions (146); and a plurality of type-2 strengthening members (1221, 1222, 1223, …123n) extending from the plurality of depressed portions (146).

5. The foot supporting element (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the plurality of type-1 strengthening members (1201, 1202, 1203, …120n) interconnecting a bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106) and a top surface (126) of the lower member (108) along a first direction; and
the plurality of type-2 strengthening members (1221, 1222, 1223, …123n) interconnecting the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106) and the top surface (126) of the lower member (108) along a second direction.

6. The foot supporting element (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein an angle between the first direction and second direction being in a range of 60o to 120o.

7. The foot supporting element (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the plurality of type-1strengthening members (1201, 1202, 1203, …120n) comprises:
a first pair of type-1 strengthening members (1201, 1202), an Nth pair of type-1 strengthening members (120n-1, 120n), and at least one further pair of type-1 strengthening members;
the first pair of type-1 strengthening members (1201,1202) being closest to the coupling portion (102);
the Nth pair of type-1 strengthening members (120n-1, 120n) being farthest to the coupling portion (102);
each of the at least one further pair of type-1 strengthening members being located between the first pair of type-1 strengthening members (1201,1202) and the Nth pair of type-1 strengthening members (120n-1, 120n);
a spacing between the first pair of type-1 strengthening members (1201,1202) being greater than a spacing between the Nth pair of type-1 strengthening members (120n-1, 120n); and
spacing between the at least one further pair of type-1 strengthening members being equal to or lesser than the spacing between the first pair of type-1 strengthening member (1201,1202) and being equal to or greater than the spacing between the Nth pair of type-1 strengthening member (120n-1, 120n).

8. The foot supporting element (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the plurality of type-2 strengthening members (1221, 1222, 1223, …122n) comprises:
a first pair of type-2 strengthening members (1221, 1222), an Nth pair of type-2 strengthening members (122n-1, 122n), and at least one further pair of type-2 strengthening members;
the first pair of type-2 strengthening members (1221,1222) being closest to the coupling portion (102);
the Nth pair of type-2 strengthening members (122n-1, 122n) being farthest to the coupling portion (102);
each of the at least one further pair of type-2 strengthening members being located between the first pair of type-2 strengthening members (1221,1222) and the Nth pair of type-2 strengthening member (122n-1, 122n);
a spacing between a first pair of type-2 strengthening member (1221,1222) being greater than a spacing between a Nth pair of type-2 strengthening member (122n-1, 122n); and
a spacing between the at least one further pair of type-2 strengthening members being equal to or lesser than the spacing between the first pair of type-2 strengthening members (1221,1222) and being equal to or greater than the spacing between the Nth pair of type-2 strengthening members (122n-1, 122n).

9. The foot supporting element (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein:
a proximal end (1281) of the first type-1 strengthening member (1201) being connected at a first location (1381) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106);
a proximal end (1282) of the second type-1 strengthening member (1202) and a proximal end (1301) of the first type-2 strengthening member (1221) being connected at a second location (1382) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106);
a proximal end (1283) of the third type-1 strengthening member(1203) and a proximal end (1302) of the second type-2 strengthening member(1222) being connected at a third location (1383) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106);
a proximal end (1284) of the fourth type-1 strengthening member(1204) and a proximal end (1303) of the third type-2 strengthening member(1223) being connected at a fourth location (1384) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106);
a proximal end (1285) of the fifth type-1 strengthening member(1205) and a proximal end (1304) of the fourth type-2 strengthening member(1224) being connected at a fifth location (1385) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106); and
a proximal end (130n) of the Nth type-2 strengthening member(122n) being connected at an nth location (138n) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106).

10. The foot supporting element (100) as claimed in claim 9, wherein:
a first depressed portion (1461) located above the first location (1381) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106);
a second depressed portion (1462) located above the second location (1382) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106);
a third depressed portion (1463) located above the third location (1383) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106);
a fourth depressed portion (1464) located above the fourth location (1384) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106);
a fifth depressed portion (1465) located above the fifth location (1385) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106); and
a sixth depressed portion (1466) located above the sixth location (1386) on the bottom surface (124) of the upper member (106).

11. The foot supporting element (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the foot resting portion (104) comprises:
a side member (112) interconnecting a distal portion (114) of the upper member (106) and a distal portion (116) of the lower member (108); and
at least one front member (118) interconnecting a part of the side member (112) to a part of the coupling portion (102).