Fully adjustable foot and leg support for rear passengers

Abstract

The first seat comprises a leg support for a user of a separate second seat, the leg support being mounted relative to the first seat, and the leg support being adjustably movable via a continuous recliner between a stowed position in which the leg support is supported by the leg support and any one of a plurality of deployed positions in which the leg support is supported by the leg support, and a plurality of deployed positions in which the leg support is supported by the leg support. The leg support is received against the rear side of the first seat, and the deployed position includes at least a shank and foot support position and a foot support position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to foot and leg supports for passengers sitting in a second row of seats located behind a first row of seats. In particular, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to a fully adjustable rear passenger foot and leg support for the feet or feet and legs of passengers in the rear row of a vehicle, which support can selectively support the feet or feet and legs of rear passengers. Background Art

[0002] The 2022 Audi A8 is advertised as having a footrest that is deployed from the rear of the front passenger seat and is used to serve passengers sitting on the rear passenger seat. The footrest is stowed in an upright manner into a recess formed in the rear side of the front passenger seat, where a map holder or seat pocket may have existed in older model vehicles. The footrest is rotated downward from a stowed position to a deployed position by a hinge at the bottom of the footrest (referenced to the stowed position). When the footrest is deployed, the front vehicle seat is also folded forward to provide space for further deployment of the footrest.

[0003] The Audi A8 footrest only has two positions: stowed and extended.

[0004] When the Audi A8 front seats and footrest transition between the stowed and deployed positions, a complex sequence of simultaneous seat sliding and footrest lowering is used to make room for the legs of the intended footrest user.

[0005] The electronics and mechanisms for powering the unfolding and stowing of the Audi A8 footrest are located within the body of the front passenger seat, taking up space that could otherwise be used for other luxury accessories, such as lumbar support and / or massage systems. Luxury seating can also include seat ventilation and adjustable cushions in the body of the first seat.

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a leg support that provides adjustability during use while bearing weight, which will enable a variety of positioning options:

[0007] Supporting the user's legs via the calves and / or feet; and / or at least providing an improved leg support or overcoming or ameliorating one or more of the above problems. Summary of the invention

[0008] According to a broad aspect of the invention, there is provided a (first) seat comprising a leg support for a user of a separate (second) seat, the leg support being mounted relative to the (first) seat and being adjustably movable via a continuous recliner between a stowed position in which the leg support is received against a rear side of the (first) seat and any one of a plurality of deployed positions.

[0009] According to another broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle (first) seat comprising a leg support for a user of a separate (second) seat mounted relative to the rear of the (first) seat, and the leg support being adjustably movable between a stowed position and any one of a plurality of deployed positions via a continuous recliner, wherein the leg support is received against the rear side of the (first) seat, wherein the deployed position comprises at least a calf and foot support position and a foot support position.

[0010] According to another broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a (first) seat comprising a leg support for a user of a separate (second) seat, the leg support being mounted relative to the (first) seat and being adjustably movable between a stowed position in which the leg support is received against a rear side of the (first) seat and a plurality of deployed positions, the deployed positions comprising at least a calf and foot support position and a foot support position.

[0011] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a (first) seat comprising a leg support for a user of a separate (second) seat, the leg support being mounted relative to the (first) seat and being adjustably movable between a stowed position and any one of a plurality of deployed positions via a continuous recliner, wherein the leg support is received against the rear side of the (first) seat, and the deployed position comprising at least a calf and foot support position and a foot support position.

[0012] Adjustably rotating the leg support using a continuous recliner creates a system in which the leg support can be conveniently stowed and moved into a variety of deployed positions, allowing passengers to improve their comfort based on their comfort needs.

[0013] The first seat may be a front seat or at least a front seat, and another seat (the second seat) is located behind the first seat.

[0014] Preferably, the leg support is secured in any one of the deployed positions to bear weight. A continuous recliner may secure the leg support in any one of the deployed positions.

[0015] The leg support may include a support surface.

[0016] In the stowed position, the leg support is preferably aligned with a portion of the (first) seat to which the leg support is mounted. Thus, the leg support is preferably substantially oriented with the (first) seat to which the leg support is mounted.

[0017] More preferably, the leg support is preferably aligned with the rear of the (first) seat to which it is mounted.The position of the backrest of the seat itself may be adjustable, but is typically between 45° and 180° relative to the seat cushion portion.

[0018] When in the calf and foot support position, the support surface of the leg support can be at an angle between 30° downward from horizontal and 30° upward relative to horizontal, more preferably between 15° downward from horizontal and 15° upward relative to horizontal, and most preferably at a substantially horizontal angle. When in the calf support position, the support surface can be at an angle between 60° and 120° relative to the rear surface of the vehicle's (first) seat, and more preferably, at an angle between 75° and 105° relative to the rear surface of the vehicle's (first) seat.

[0019] When in the calf and foot support position, the support surface of the leg support may be configured and positioned to directly support the calf and foot / feet of a user with the legs extended.

[0020] When in the foot support position, the support surface of the leg support may be inclined at least 30° downwardly from horizontal, preferably at least 40° downwardly from horizontal, and most preferably at least 50° downwardly from horizontal.

[0021] When in the foot support position, the support surface of the leg support may be configured and positioned to directly support the sole of the foot / feet of a user with the legs bent.

[0022] Importantly, the leg support of the present invention is configured to move from a stowed position to any one of a plurality of deployed positions. The leg support can move from the deployed position to different deployed positions. The leg support can move from any deployed position to the stowed position. In any deployed position, the leg support will preferably be configured to support weight.

[0023] The angular difference in orientation of the support surface of the leg support when in the calf and foot support position and the foot support position may be between 30° and 100°, preferably between 40° and 70°, and most preferably between 45° and 55°.

[0024] The orientation of the support surface of the leg support when in the stowed position and the deployed position may differ by at least 60° of rotation, at least 90° of rotation, preferably at least 100° of rotation, more preferably at least 120° of rotation, even more preferably at least 130° of rotation, and most preferably about 140° of rotation or more. The orientation of the support surface of the leg support when in the stowed position and the lowest foot support position (e.g., the foot support position) may differ by about 140° of rotation. The position of the leg support may be adjustable to stop at any position within about 140° of rotation.

[0025] The leg support is preferably mounted to the rear or backrest portion of the (first) seat via at least one continuous recliner. Preferably, two continuous recliners are used, one on each side of the leg support. The use of two continuous recliners compared to a single continuous recliner results in greater stability of the leg support during use and less loads than if a single continuous recliner were to be used.

[0026] Continuous recliners are commonly used to adjust seat backs and are specifically designed to maintain their angular alignment under large torque loads, such as might be encountered during a collision. Thus, during the adjustment process, the continuous recliner can support the weight of the passenger's legs. The ability to withstand large loads enables adjustments to be made during use while the leg support and any adjustment devices support the weight of the passenger's legs. This enables a more comfortable adjustment because the passenger will not need to remove their legs from the leg support before an adjustment can occur. Furthermore, considering that continuous recliners are intended to handle the loads associated with the weight of a person in a collision, they can be considered to be substantially over-designed for supporting only the weight of the legs under gravity; therefore, movement will be precise and free of wobbles, consistent with the experience found in luxury cars.

[0027] The leg support is preferably a movable wing. As mentioned above, the leg support is preferably mounted relative to the backrest portion of the (first) vehicle seat, preferably relative to the front row or front seat. The leg support portion may be mounted relative to the rear side of the (first) vehicle seat.

[0028] In one embodiment, when in the stowed condition, the movable wing of the leg support is at least partially received in a recess in the (first) seat, preferably in a recess in the rear side of the (first) seat.

[0029] The movable wing may undergo powered movement between the stowed state and at least one deployed state, and / or the movable wing may be manually movable.

[0030] The leg support may include an upper padded surface (when deployed). The support surface may include a padded surface. The addition of padding and shell provides a luxurious appearance, which improves the comfort and experience of the user.

[0031] The leg support may include a shell configured to enclose the mechanism of the leg support. The shell will preferably define the outer shape of the leg support and enclose the movement mechanism within the leg support. The upper padding surface may be mounted on or attached to the shell, preferably on the upper side (inside when stowed). The lower and / or rearward portion of the shell may be made of a sturdy material to protect the leg support when in the stowed state. The lower and / or rearward portion of the shell may also be aesthetically camouflaged to the leg support against the rear of the (first) seat when in the stowed state.

[0032] Preferably, a movement mechanism is provided within the outer shell and / or the upper cushion surface.

[0033] The movement mechanism may comprise a mounting plate or similar structure to mount the leg support relative to the (first) seat.The mounting plate is preferably arranged adjacent to the underside of the backrest portion of the (first) seat.

[0034] At least one mounting wing may extend at an angle from the mounting plate. At least one mounting wing may extend vertically from the mounting plate. The mounting wing may comprise a substantially planar plate. Two mounting wings may be provided, one at or towards a lateral end of the mounting plate.

[0035] The or each mounting wing may include an opening therethrough for receiving an adapter for mounting a hinge or continuous recliner to allow the movable wing to rotate between a stowed state and at least one deployed state. The or each mounting wing may be provided at least partially within a rear elevation of the (first) seat. The or each mounting wing may be provided at least partially within a recess in a rear portion of the (first) seat.

[0036] A continuous recliner may be mounted relative to the mounting wings at either end of the mounting plate, preferably between the mounting wings at either end of the mounting plate. A pair of continuous recliners may be provided, with a continuous recliner at either side end in each of the respective mounting wings at either end of the mounting plate.

[0037] The shaft may extend between a preferably pair of consecutive inclinometers to ensure that the consecutive inclinometers rotate together to maintain the movable wing level. The shaft may be elongate.

[0038] The movable wings are preferably mounted between preferably consecutive pairs of recliners.

[0039] The movable wing may have an internal support structure. The support structure is preferably mounted relative to the mounting plate of the leg support for rotatable movement. The support structure preferably provides the shape and configuration for the movable wing. The support structure is preferably used to mount the components of the movement mechanism of the leg support and is then typically covered (protected) by an outer shell that defines the final shape / configuration of the leg support.

[0040] The internal support structure may include a pair of side frame members or arrangements and at least one cross member or arrangement extending between the side frame members or arrangements.

[0041] When viewed from the side, each side frame member or arrangement may be generally triangular shaped, being taller and closer to the mounting plate at the inner end and smaller and further away from the mounting plate at the outer end.

[0042] When viewed in plan, each side frame member or arrangement may have a substantially planar inner end closest to the mounting plate, an intermediate wall extending laterally outwardly from an outer side of the substantially planar inner end, and a substantially planar outer end farthest from the mounting plate. The substantially planar inner end and the substantially planar outer end are preferably parallel to each other. The outwardly extending intermediate wall is preferably perpendicular to the substantially planar inner end and the substantially planar outer end.

[0043] The substantially planar inner end will preferably be mounted to a hinge or continuous recliner.

[0044] The side frame members or arrangements or cross members or arrangements may be provided with one or more attachment points to attach the housing relative to the attachment points.One or more attachment points may be provided on at least one cross member or arrangement.

[0045] At least one cross member or arrangement may be provided between the outer ends of the side frame members or arrangements.

[0046] A transverse reinforcement bar or assembly may extend between the side frame members or arrangements, approximately halfway between the outer and inner ends.

[0047] A motor mount may be provided for attachment relative to the reinforcing rod or assembly. The motor mount may include an elongated body mounted relative to or around the reinforcing rod or assembly. The elongated body may extend laterally across the entire width of the support structure. The elongated body may be generally U-shaped in cross-section, defining an opening through which the reinforcing rod or assembly extends. The opening preferably faces outward when stowed or faces downward when deployed to the calf and foot support position.

[0048] A shaped motor receptacle may be provided extending from the elongated body of the motor mount. The shaped motor receptacle is preferably positioned closer to the mounting plate than the elongated body. The shaped motor receptacle may face inwardly in the stowed state and face upwardly towards the calf and foot support position when deployed.

[0049] At least one motor may be carried by the movable wing of the leg support. For example, the motor may be arranged within the thickness of the movable wing, within the preferred housing or at least partially received within a shaped motor receptacle and preferably secured therein. A shaped motor receptacle is preferred over a mounting bracket or the like for stability and resistance to any torque that may be generated by the motor.

[0050] The motor may be oriented transversely across the width of the movable wing between the side frame structures or arrangements. The output shaft may be provided at one end of the motor. The motor is preferably mounted in a thicker portion of the movable wing, closer to the mounting plate.

[0051] The or each continuous inclinometer may comprise an inner gear plate and an outer gear plate. The inner gear plate may have a first axis of rotation. The outer gear plate may have a second axis of rotation. The second axis of rotation may be offset relative to the first axis of rotation. The inner gear plate and the outer gear plate preferably engage at a point on each gear. This causes one gear to orbit relative to the other gear.

[0052] The or each continuous recliner may be driven by a motor. As described above, the motor is preferably mounted on / in the leg support rather than in the (first) seat. This will reserve space in the (first) seat for other components associated with the (first) seat, such as a seat heater, seat ventilation, massage device, one or more airbags and a lumbar support. Any type of motor may be used, but preferably an electric motor is used. The motor may be powered by the vehicle electrical system. A supply cable may extend from the (first) seat to the motor.

[0053] The motor may drive a shaft extending between the or each continuous recliner, which in turn drives the or each continuous recliner (e.g., a recliner on either end). A torque transfer mechanism may be provided between the motor and the shaft. The torque transfer mechanism may include one or more pulleys, gears, and / or belts / chains, for example to transfer rotation of an output shaft to rotate the shaft. The use of a continuous recliner in conjunction with a motor may reduce strain on the motor, and / or any torque transfer mechanism that may be utilized. Additionally, the use of two continuous recliners may provide a more secure mount to the car seat as there are two points of connection to the support surface, and improves stability of the leg support during use.

[0054] The or each continuous recliner may further comprise a drive member. The drive member may be configured to drive rotation of the inner gear plate relative to the outer gear plate. The outer gear plate of the continuous recliner may be fixedly attached relative to the (first) seat via a mounting plate and corresponding mounting wings.

[0055] The continuous recliner may include a biasing device to maintain constant engagement of the inner gear plate with the outer gear plate.

[0056] Constant engagement means that continuous pressure can be applied to the gear plate included in the continuous recliner during use. This ensures a smooth adjustment experience with minimal lag effect between driving the motor and effecting a change in rotation of the leg support.

[0057] The inner gear plate of the continuous inclinometer may share the same rotation axis as the shaft. The continuous inclinometer may also include a drive component. The drive component may be configured to drive the rotation of the inner gear plate relative to the outer gear plate. The shaft may be configured to apply torque to the drive component, which in turn drives the rotation of the inner gear plate relative to the outer gear plate.

[0058] The (first) seat comprising the leg support may be a front seat. The leg support may be configured to support the legs of a passenger in a rear (second) seat.

[0059] The (second) seat for the passenger may be referred to as a second row seat. The (first) car seat including the leg support may be a front passenger seat. The front passenger seat may be referred to as a first row seat. However, embodiments of the present invention may be applied to any second seat located behind any first seat.

[0060] The first row seat may slide forward during operation of the leg support. The backrest portion of the first row seat may rotate forward during movement of the leg support from the stowed position to any of the deployed positions. The rotation of the backrest portion and the forward sliding of the first row seat may occur together. The rotation of the backrest portion and the forward sliding of the first row seat may be synchronized with the movement of the leg support from the stowed position to any of the deployed positions. The sliding of the first row seat may create more room for the legs of the passengers by increasing the spacing between the first row seat and the rear row seat.

[0061] The rear (second) seat (whose user will use the leg support) can also be configured as a recliner. The seat portion of the rear (second) seat can slide forward. The backrest portion of the rear (second) seat can be tilted.

[0062] Movement of the first row (first) seats and / or the rear row (second) seats may be synchronized with movement of the leg supports from the stowed position to either of the deployed positions.

[0063] The leg support may be attached to the rear surface of the (first) car seat.

[0064] The first row (first) seats and / or the rear row (second) seats may be provided as part of the seat system.

[0065] The seating system may also include a controller that controls the movement of one or more of the leg supports, the first row (first) seats, and the rear row (second) seats. The controller may be disposed in any location, such as on a portion of the first seat, but will preferably be located on a portion of the rear row (second) seats, or the controller may be disposed as a software application on a portable computing device, such as, for example, a smart phone or tablet computer. The controller may be associated with the motor of the leg support. The controller may be associated with one or more motors that are associated with the first row (first) seats and / or the rear row (second) seats. The controller will preferably control all aspects of the deployment and storage of the leg supports, as well as any associated movement, such as the movement of the first row (first) seats and / or the rear row (second) seats.

[0066] The controller may be configured to allow the user to define a user preferred angle or position of deployment before deployment begins. Such a configuration may allow the manufacturer and / or user to define one or more default or preferred deployment positions. For example, the manufacturer may define +15° to horizontal position (calf and foot support), -15° to horizontal position (calf and foot support), and -50° to horizontal position (foot support position). Once one or more default or preferred deployment positions have been set or defined, a single-press actuation switch may be operated, whereupon the movable wing is moved to the preferred deployment angle or position and then stopped.

[0067] The controller may include one or more switches that move the leg support in a downward (away from the stowed position) and upward (toward the stowed position) direction. When the movable wing of the leg support has reached the desired position, the user may release the switch, thereby stopping the movement of the movable wing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0068] In order to more clearly understand the present invention, one embodiment / embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0069] Figure 1 The components of the leg support are shown in a stowed position, without any exterior surface treatment applied.

[0070] Figure 2 Shown in the deployed position Figure 1 The leg support is shown without any external surface treatment applied.

[0071] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 An exploded view of the movable wings of the leg support shown in FIG.

[0072] Figure 4 The leg support of an embodiment is shown in a stowed position.

[0073] Figure 5 The leg support of an embodiment is shown in a first, partially deployed position.

[0074] Figure 6 The leg support of the embodiment is shown in a second, partially deployed position.

[0075] Figure 7 The leg support of an embodiment is shown with the calf and foot support positions in a deployed position.

[0076] Figure 8 The leg support is shown in a fully deployed embodiment with the foot support position in the deployed position.

[0077] Fig. 9 The leg support is shown in use in a calf and foot support position.

[0078] Fig.10 The leg support is shown in use in a fully extended foot support position.

[0079] According to the embodiment shown in the drawings, a leg support 10 for a user of a rear seat 15 is provided. Figures 4 to 8 As shown, the leg support 10 of the embodiment is mounted relative to the rear of the backrest portion of the front seat 11 in the vehicle and can be adjusted in the stowed position (such as Figure 4 ) and any one of a plurality of expanded and partially expanded positions (such as Figures 5 to 8 ), in which the leg support 10 is at least partially received in a recess 12 in a backrest of a front seat 11 .

[0080] The expansion position includes at least Figure 7 and Fig. 9 The lower leg and foot support positions shown and Figure 8 and Fig.10 Foot support position shown.

[0081] The use of a continuous recliner to adjustably rotate the leg support 10 results in a system in which the leg support 10 can be conveniently stowed and also moved into a variety of deployed positions, allowing the occupant 13 to improve their comfort based on their comfort needs. The continuous recliner is used to secure the leg support 10 in any of the deployed positions to bear weight.

[0082] In such Figure 4 In the stowed position shown, the leg support 10 is received within a recess 12 in the rear portion of the front seat 11 and is aligned with the rear portion of the front seat 11 to which the leg support is mounted.

[0083] The position of the backrest of the front seat 11 itself may be adjustable, but is typically between 45° and 180° relative to the seat cushion portion (not shown).

[0084] When in such Fig. 9 In the calf and foot support position shown, the upper support surface 14 of the leg support 10 is generally horizontal, regardless of the orientation of the backrest portion of the front seat 11. In this position, the upper support surface 14 of the leg support 11 is positioned to directly support the calf and foot / feet of the rear passenger 13 who is extending his legs, such as Fig. 9 shown.

[0085] When in such Fig.10 In the foot support position shown, the upper support surface 14 of the leg support 10 is tilted downward at least 50 degrees from the horizontal plane. In this position, the upper support surface 14 of the leg support 10 can be used as a footrest, and the rear passengers 13 can place the bottom of their feet on the footrest by bending their knees, such as Fig.10 shown.

[0086] The orientation of support surface 14 of leg support 10 when in the stowed position and the lowest foot support position may vary by about 140° of rotation. The position of leg support 10 may be adjustable to stop and bear weight at any position within about 140° of rotation.

[0087] According to the embodiment shown, the leg support 10 is mounted to the rear of the backrest portion of the front seat 11 via at least one continuous recliner 16. Figures 1 to 3 As shown, two continuous recliners 16 are used, one on each side of the leg support 10 .

[0088] As shown, the leg support 10 is preferably a movable wing. When in the stowed state, the movable wing of the leg support 10 is at least partially received in a recess 12 in the front seat 11.

[0089] The movable wing may undergo powered movement between a stowed state and at least one deployed state.

[0090] Leg support 10 may include a housing (at Figures 1 to 3 The outer shell is configured to enclose the structure of the leg support 10 (removed to show the internal structure). The outer shell will preferably define the outer shape of the leg support 10. The upper padding surface is provided on the upper (inner) side of the outer shell. The lower and / or rearward portion of the outer shell can be made of a sturdy material to protect the leg support 10 when in the stowed state, which is particularly useful in Figure 4 In the stowed position shown, the leg support can also be aesthetically concealed behind the front seat 11 .

[0091] Figures 1 to 3 An example of a motion mechanism disposed within a housing is shown in FIG.

[0092] The kinematic mechanism shown comprises a mounting plate 17 for mounting the leg support 10 relative to the front seat 11. The mounting plate 17 is preferably arranged adjacent to the underside of the backrest portion of the front seat 11.

[0093] Two mounting wings 18 extend from the mounting plate 17 substantially perpendicular to the mounting plate 17. As shown, each mounting wing 18 is a generally flat plate. Figure 2 As best shown in , mounting wings are provided at or towards each lateral end of the mounting plate 17 .

[0094] As shown, each mounting wing 18 includes an opening 19 therethrough to receive an adapter 20 to mount a continuous recliner 16, thereby allowing the movable wing to rotate between a stowed state and at least one deployed state. Each mounting wing can be at least partially disposed within a recess in a rear elevation of the front seat 11, at least partially disposed in a recess in a rear portion of the front seat 11.

[0095] In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of continuous recliners 16 are provided, one at either side in each corresponding mounting wing 18 at either end of the mounting plate 17 .

[0096] A shaft 21 extends between the pair of consecutive inclinometers 16 to ensure that the consecutive inclinometers 16 rotate together to maintain the movable wing level.

[0097] The movable wings of the leg support 10 are mounted between the pair of consecutive recliners 16 .

[0098] The movable wing has an internal support structure. Figure 3 An example of this is shown in . The support structure is preferably mounted relative to the mounting plate 17 of the leg support 10 for rotatable movement via the mounting wings 1 and the continuous inclinometer 16 .

[0099] The support structure is preferably used to mount the components of the movement mechanism of the leg support 10, and is then typically covered (protected) by an outer shell (removed for clarity) that defines the final shape / configuration of the leg support.

[0100] Specific as Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 2 , the internal support structure includes a pair of side frame members 22 and a plurality of cross members extending between the side frame members 22 .

[0101] When viewed from the side, each side frame member 22 of the illustrated embodiment is generally triangular in shape, being taller and closer to the mounting plate 17 at the inner end and smaller and further away from the mounting plate 17 at the outer end.

[0102] When viewed in plan, each side frame member 22 has a substantially planar inner end closest to the mounting plate 17, which is mounted relative to the continuous recliner 16, and has an opening 25 through which the shaft extends. Each side frame member 22 has an outwardly extending intermediate wall 24 that extends laterally outward from the outer side of the substantially planar inner end 23 and the substantially planar outer end farthest from the mounting plate 17. The substantially planar inner end 23 and the substantially planar outer end are parallel to each other. The outwardly extending intermediate wall 24 is perpendicular to both the substantially planar inner end 23 and the substantially planar outer end.

[0103] In the embodiment shown, two cross members are provided between the side frame members 22, an outer cross member 25 is provided between the outer ends of the side frame members 22, and an inner cross member 26 is provided between the inner ends 23 of the side frame members 22. In the embodiment shown, the outer cross member 25 is provided with one or more attachment points 27 to attach the outer shell relative thereto. Another attachment point is provided on a bracket 28 mounted to the outer side of the substantially planar outer ends of the side frame members 22.

[0104] A transverse reinforcement bar 29 extends between the side frame members 22 approximately midway between the outer ends.

[0105] A motor mount may be provided that is attached relative to the reinforcement rod 29. The motor mount may include an elongated body 30 that extends transversely across the entire width of the support structure. The elongated body 30 may be substantially U-shaped in cross-section that defines an opening through which the reinforcement rod 29 extends. The opening faces outward when stowed or faces downward when deployed to the calf and foot support position.

[0106] A shaped motor receptacle 31 is provided extending from the elongated body 30 of the elongated body 30 to form a single motor mount. The shaped motor receptacle 31 is positioned closer to the mounting plate 17 than the elongated body 30. The shaped motor receptacle 31 may face inwardly in the stowed state and face upwardly when the movable wings are deployed to the calf and foot support position.

[0107] The motor 32 is at least partially received in the shaped motor receptacle 31 and secured therein.

[0108] The motor 32 is oriented transversely across the width of the movable wing between the side frame structures 22. An output shaft (shrouded) is provided at one end of the motor 32. The motor 32 is preferably mounted approximately centrally in the thicker part of the movable wing.

[0109] Each continuous recliner 16 includes an inner gear plate and an outer gear plate. The inner gear plate may have a first axis of rotation. The outer gear plate may have a second axis of rotation. The second axis of rotation may be offset relative to the first axis of rotation. The inner gear plate and the outer gear plate preferably engage at a point on each gear. This causes one gear to orbit relative to the other gear.

[0110] As shown, each continuous recliner is driven by a motor 32. Any type of motor 32 may be used, but preferably an electric motor is used. The motor 32 of the illustrated embodiment is powered by the vehicle electrical system via a supply cable 33 extending from the seat to which the leg support is mounted to the motor 32.

[0111] As shown, a motor 32 drives a shaft 21 extending between the consecutive recliners 16 which in turn drives the consecutive recliners 16 on either end to rotate the movable wing from a stowed position to one or more deployed conditions and back to a stowed position.

[0112] The torque transmission mechanism 34 is provided between the motor and the shaft 21. The torque transmission mechanism 34 shown includes a continuous belt or chain to transmit the rotation of the output shaft so that the shaft 21 rotates.

[0113] Using a continuous recliner 16 in conjunction with the motor 32 can reduce strain on the motor 32 and / or any torque transfer mechanism 34 utilized. Using two continuous recliners 16 additionally enables a more secure mounting to the car seat because there will be two attachment points for the support surface of the movable wing, and the stability of the leg support 10 during use is improved.

[0114] With regard to the continuous recliner configuration itself, the continuous recliner may also include a drive component configured to drive rotation of the inner gear plate relative to the outer gear plate. As shown, the outer gear plate of the continuous recliner 16 is fixedly attached relative to the vehicle seat via a mounting plate 17 and corresponding mounting wings 18, and the inner gear plate is fixedly attached relative to the movable wings of the leg support.

[0115] The continuous recliner 16 may include a biasing device to maintain constant engagement of both the inner gear plate and the outer gear plate. Constant engagement means that continuous pressure can be applied to the gear plates contained within the continuous recliner 16 during use. This ensures a smooth adjustment experience, minimizing the lag effect between the drive motor 32 and the rotational changes of the leg support 16.

[0116] The inner gear plate of the continuous recliner 16 may share the same rotation axis as the shaft 21. The continuous recliner 16 may also include a drive component. The drive component may be configured to drive the rotation of the inner gear plate relative to the outer gear plate. The shaft 21 may be configured to apply torque to the drive component, which in turn drives the rotation of the inner gear plate relative to the outer gear plate.

[0117] A suitable continuous inclinometer is available from Faurerecia SE as part number 1823254x-01.

[0118] The seat including the leg support 10 may be a front seat. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As shown, the leg supports may be configured to support the legs of a passenger seated in a rear seat.

[0119] The passenger seat may be referred to as a second row seat. The car seat including the leg support may be a front passenger seat. The front passenger seat may be referred to as a first row seat. The first row seat may slide forward during operation of the leg support. The sliding movement of the first row seat may create more space for the passenger's legs.

[0120] The controller 60 may be disposed in any location, such as on a portion of the front row / front seats or on a portion of the rear seats 15, or the controller 60 may be disposed as a software application on a portable computing device, such as a smartphone or tablet (not shown). The controller 60 is associated with the motor of the leg support. The controller 60 may be associated with one or more motors associated with the front seats and / or the rear seats. The controller 60 will preferably control all aspects of the deployment and storage of the leg support 10 and any associated movement, such as movement of the front seats and / or the rear seats.

[0121] The controller 60 may be configured to allow the user to define the user's preferred angle or position of deployment before deployment begins. Once the desired angle or position of deployment is set, an actuation button or the like may be activated, whereupon the movable wings of the leg support 10 move to the selected deployment angle or position and then stop.

[0122] Controller 60 may include one or more switches to move the movable wings of leg support 10 in a downward (away from the stowed position) and upward (toward the stowed position) direction. When the movable wings of leg support 10 have reached the desired position, the user may release the switch, thereby stopping the movement of the movable wings.

[0123] The above embodiment / embodiments are described by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A first seat, the first seat including a leg support for a user of a separate second seat, the leg support being mounted relative to the first seat and adjustably movable between a stowed position and any one of a plurality of deployed positions via a continuous recliner, wherein the leg support is received against a rear side of the first seat in the stowed position, the deployed position including at least a calf and foot support position and a foot support position, and wherein the leg support includes a movable wing and at least one motor carried by the movable wing, the at least one motor providing power for movement between the stowed state and at least one deployed state.

2. The first seat according to claim 1, wherein: The leg support is aligned with a rear portion of the first seat to which the leg support is mounted.

3. A first seat according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: When in the calf and foot support position, the support surface of the leg support is at an angle between 30° downward from horizontal and 30° upward relative to the horizontal, more preferably between 15° downward from horizontal and 15° upward relative to the horizontal, and most preferably substantially horizontal.

4. A first seat according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: When in the calf and foot support position, the support surface of the leg support is at an angle between 60° and 120° relative to the rear surface of the first car seat, more preferably at an angle between 75° and 105° relative to the rear surface of the first car seat.

5. A first seat according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: When in the foot support position, the support surface of the leg support is inclined downwardly at least 30° from the horizontal, preferably at least 40° from the horizontal, most preferably at least 50° from the horizontal.

6. A first seat according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The difference in angle of the support surface of the leg support when in the calf and foot support position and the foot support position is between 30° and 100°, preferably between 40° and 70°, most preferably between 45° and 55°.

7. A first seat according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The support surface of the leg support can be oriented differently between the stowed position and the deployed position by at least 60° rotation, at least 90° rotation, preferably at least 100° rotation, more preferably at least 120° rotation, even more preferably at least 130° rotation, most preferably about 140° rotation or more.

8. A first seat according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The leg support includes two continuous incline adjusters, one on each side of the leg support.

9. A first seat according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: When the movable wing of the leg support is at least partially received in a recess in the first seat, preferably when in the stowed condition, the movable wing is at least partially received in a recess in a rear side of the first seat.

10. A first seat according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a movement mechanism to move the movable wing.

11. The first seat according to claim 10, wherein: The movement mechanism includes a mounting plate or structure for mounting the leg support relative to the first seat.

12. The first seat according to claim 10, wherein: The mounting plate or support is disposed adjacent an underside of a backrest portion of the first seat.

13. The first seat according to claim 11 or 12, wherein: At least one mounting wing extends at an angle from the mounting plate, each of the mounting wings including an opening therethrough to receive an adapter to mount the continuous recliner to allow the movable wing to rotate between the stowed position and at least one deployed position.

14. A first seat according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The movable wing comprises a motor mount such that the at least one motor is carried by the movable wing, each of the motors having an output shaft.

15. The first seat according to claim 14, wherein: The or each continuous recliner is driven by the at least one motor.

16. A first seat as claimed in claim 15, further comprising a torque transfer mechanism disposed between the at least one motor and the or each continuous recliner.

17. A vehicle seating system according to any preceding claim, comprising a first seat and a second seat, wherein: The first seat including the leg support is a front row seat, and the leg support is configured to support the legs of a passenger seated in a second seat in the rear row.

18. The vehicle seating system of claim 17, wherein: During operation of the leg support, the front seat slides forward.

19. The vehicle seat system according to any one of claims 17 or 18, wherein: During movement of the leg support from the stowed position to any one of the deployed positions, the backrest portion of the front seat is rotated forward.

20. The vehicle seating system of claim 19, wherein: The rotation of the backrest portion and the forward sliding movement of the front seat are synchronized with the movement of the leg support from the stowed position to either of the deployed positions.

21. The vehicle seating system of any one of claims 17 to 20, further comprising a controller for controlling movement of one or more of the leg support, the front seat and the rear seat.

22. The vehicle seating system of claim 21, wherein: The controller is configured to allow a user to define a user preferred deployment angle or position before deployment begins.

23. The vehicle seating system of claim 21, wherein: The controller includes one or more switches that move the leg support in a downward direction away from the stowed position and an upward direction toward the stowed position.

24. A leg support for a seat or seat system according to any of the preceding claims, the leg support being mounted relative to the seat and being adjustably movable via a continuous recliner between a stowed position in which the leg support is received against the rear side of the seat and any one of a plurality of deployed positions, the deployed positions including at least a calf and foot support position and a foot support position.

25. A motor vehicle comprising a leg support, seat or seat system as claimed in any preceding claim.

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