Leg rest arrangement for a vehicle

Abstract

A leg rest arrangement (100) for a vehicle is described. The leg rest arrangement (100) comprises a thigh support unit (101) and a calf support unit (103). The thigh support unit can be attached to and movably connected to the seat base frame of the reconfigurable seat (200). The thigh support includes a thigh adjustment motor (102). The calf support unit (103) includes a calf adjustment motor (104) to pivot the calf support unit (103) relative to the thigh support unit (101). The thigh adjustment motor can be configured to linearly move the thigh support unit relative to the seat base frame of the reconfigurable seat between an extended position and a retracted position. The arrangement of this disclosure can provide the occupant with support for resting and supporting their feet, thereby reducing the strain on the occupant's legs.

Description

PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION

[0001] The following description explains the invention and the manner in which it is implemented in more detail. TECHNICAL AREA

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of motor vehicles. In particular, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a leg rest arrangement for vehicles. Further embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a configuration of the leg rest arrangement that provides an occupant with both thigh and calf support. BACKGROUND

[0003] Passenger cars have evolved over several decades to offer optimal comfort to their occupants. Today, the focus is on making the interior more pleasant and luxurious for passengers. Plush and luxurious cabins offer occupants greater comfort and convenience. To provide passengers in the front seats with the desired comfort, various features are incorporated into the passenger compartment. These include armrests, headrests, and adjustable seats, which are typically found in vehicles. To further enhance passenger comfort, some vehicles are also equipped with leg rests to support the occupants' legs. Furthermore, the use of such leg rests can prevent dirt from accumulating on the vehicle floor. Leg rests also help reduce passenger fatigue.

[0004] Leg rests are typically provided for rear-seat occupants. They are generally located in the lower portion of the seat. In all configurations, leg rests are bulky and add weight to the seat structure. On long journeys, occupants are often forced to sit with their knees bent, leading to strain in the feet and legs. When a passenger wishes to rest their legs on the leg rest, they can operate it electronically or manually, causing it to slide from the lower portion of the seat to the floor. However, conventional leg rest configurations present several problems, such as limited space or inability to adequately support the entire leg area of ​​the occupants. Furthermore, existing leg rests may collide with or interfere with seat and vehicle components, such as...The floor carpet and the BIW (Body-in-White) are unsuitable. Conventional leg rest arrangements extending from the seat may not provide sufficient leg support and can be uncomfortable for the occupants.

[0005] Vehicles typically have conventional leg rests to support the occupants' legs. Patent DE102024001031A1 discloses a seat structure with a seat surface mounted on a seat base frame. A longitudinally adjustable thigh support, which can extend the seat surface, is mounted on the seat base frame. An adjustable lower leg support is also mounted on the vehicle seat. The lower leg support is positively guided between the seat base frame and the thigh support, so that adjusting the thigh support requires adjusting the lower leg support as well. While conventional configurations offer support for either the thigh or calf of the occupants, no other configuration optimally supports both the thigh and calf sections of the occupants' legs in a single operation.Furthermore, existing configurations take up more space in the cabin and are very complex. The number of components required for a conventional leg rest can also be significantly higher, requiring more maintenance.

[0006] The present disclosure aims to overcome one or more of the above-mentioned limitations or other limitations associated with the state of the art.

[0007] The information disclosed in this section concerning the background of the disclosure is provided solely for a better understanding of the general background of the invention and is not to be understood as an acknowledgment or an indication that this information constitutes prior art already known to a person skilled in the art. SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0008] A leg rest arrangement as claimed in the present disclosure overcomes one or more shortcomings of conventional systems and creates additional advantages. These additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered part of the claimed disclosure.

[0009] In a non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure, a leg rest arrangement for a vehicle is disclosed. The arrangement comprises a thigh support unit movably connected to a seat base frame of a reconfigurable seat. The thigh support unit includes a thigh adjustment motor configured to linearly move the thigh support unit relative to the seat base frame between an extended position and a retracted position. A calf support unit is functionally coupled to the thigh support unit. The calf support unit includes a calf adjustment motor for pivotally adjusting the calf support unit relative to the thigh support unit. The calf support unit further comprises a guide tube arranged below the thigh support unit and configured to be attached to a steering bracket in a central section of the guide tube.The calf adjustment motor is functionally linked to the steering bracket to pivot the calf support unit relative to the thigh support unit. A pair of first coupling brackets, a pair of second coupling brackets, and a pair of third coupling brackets are connected to each other at the respective ends of the guide tube. A longitudinal bracket is positioned between the pair of first coupling brackets and the pair of third coupling brackets. The longitudinal bracket is designed to engage with a swivel tube, so that the swivel tube is rotatably connected to the pair of first coupling brackets and the pair of third coupling brackets at each end. A calf support plate is attached to the pair of third coupling brackets, so that actuation of the calf adjustment motor allows the calf support plate to pivot around the swivel tube into a predefined position.

[0010] In one embodiment of the disclosure, each pair of first coupling holders is provided with an arc-shaped slot, so that the corresponding ends of the guide tube are movably received in the respective arc-shaped slot of the pair of first holders.

[0011] In one embodiment of the disclosure, the thigh support unit comprises a guide plate to movably connect the thigh support unit to the reconfigurable seat.

[0012] In one embodiment of the disclosure, each pair of first coupling brackets, second coupling brackets and third coupling brackets is connected to each other by rivets or fasteners, and each pair of first coupling brackets is slidably connected to the guide plate by rivets or fasteners.

[0013] In one embodiment of the disclosure, the calf adjustment motor is operationally coupled to a shaft, such that one end of the shaft is connected to the steering bracket by means of fastening elements.

[0014] In one embodiment of the disclosure, the thigh support unit comprises a thigh support plate (115) which is movably received between the seat base frame and the guide plate.

[0015] In one embodiment of the disclosure, the thigh support unit comprises a first cushioning element attached to the thigh support plate, and the calf support unit comprises a second cushioning element attached to the calf support plate.

[0016] In another embodiment, the calf adjustment motor is attached to the guide plate below the thigh support plate, so that the thigh adjustment motor and the calf adjustment motor are configured to be actuated simultaneously.

[0017] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the thigh adjustment motor is attached to the thigh support plate, which is located below the seat base frame of the reconfigurable seat, and the thigh adjustment motor is configured to move the thigh support unit linearly into a predefined position.

[0018] In a further non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure, a reconfigurable seat for a vehicle is described. The reconfigurable seat comprises a seat base frame and a seat back frame, each provided with a component for upholstery. The seat back frame is adjustably attached to a seat base frame. A leg rest arrangement is configured to support the legs of a user sitting on the reconfigurable seat. The leg rest arrangement includes a thigh support unit that is movably connected to the seat base frame of a reconfigurable seat. The thigh support unit includes a thigh adjustment motor configured to linearly move the thigh support unit relative to the seat base frame between an extended position and a retracted position. A calf support unit is functionally coupled to the thigh support unit.The calf support unit includes a calf adjustment motor for pivoting the calf support unit relative to the thigh support unit. The calf support unit further includes a guide tube located below the thigh support unit and configured to attach to a steering bracket in a central section of the guide tube. The calf adjustment motor is functionally connected to the steering bracket to pivot the calf support unit relative to the thigh support unit. A pair of first coupling brackets, a pair of second coupling brackets, and a pair of third coupling brackets are connected to each other at the respective ends of the guide tube. A longitudinal support is located between the pair of first coupling brackets and the pair of third coupling brackets.The longitudinal support is designed to engage with a rotary tube, so that the rotary tube is rotatably connected to the pair of first coupling brackets and the pair of third coupling brackets at each end. A calf support plate is attached to the pair of third coupling brackets, so that actuation of the calf adjustment motor allows the calf support plate to pivot around the rotary tube into a predefined position.

[0019] The foregoing summary serves only for illustration and is in no way intended to be limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become clear by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ENCLOSED DRAWINGS

[0020] The new features and properties of the disclosure are set forth in the appended claims. However, the disclosure itself, as well as a mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, are best understood by reference to the following detailed description of an embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments are now described only by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which identical reference numerals represent identical elements and in which: Fig. Figure 1 shows an exemplary perspective view of a reconfigurable seat with a leg rest arrangement to support the occupant's legs according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 2 shows a lower isometric view of the leg rest arrangement of Fig. 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; and Fig. Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the calf support unit in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and Fig. Figure 4 shows a view from below of the calf support unit of Fig. 3, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 5 shows a side view of the calf support unit of Fig. 3, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 6 shows a top view of the calf support unit of Fig. 3, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; and Fig. Figure 7 shows an exploded view of the calf support unit of Fig. 3 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] The figures show embodiments of the disclosure, which serve only for illustration. A person skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the mechanism shown here can be used without deviating from the principles of the disclosure described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] While the embodiments described in the disclosure are subject to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments are illustrated by way of example in the figures and are described below. It goes without saying, however, that the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the form shown in each instance, but on the contrary, encompasses all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the scope of the disclosure.

[0023] It should be noted that a person skilled in the art is motivated by the present disclosure and may modify various features of the leg rest arrangement without deviating from the scope of the disclosure. Therefore, such modifications are considered part of the disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings show only those specific details that are important for understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure, so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to the ordinary person skilled in the art who benefits from the present description. Furthermore, the arrangement of the present disclosure can be used in any type of vehicle, including small commercial vehicles, passenger vehicles, and the like. For the sake of simplicity, the vehicle is not shown in the corresponding figures.

[0024] The expressions “includes…a”, “comprehensive”, or other variations thereof used in the disclosure are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions, so that a system comprising a list of components may include not only those components but also other components not expressly listed or belonging to such a system. In other words, one or more elements in a system introduced by “includes…a” does not, without further qualification, exclude the existence of other or additional elements in the system.

[0025] Embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a leg rest arrangement for a vehicle. The leg rest arrangement of the present disclosure is designed to provide significantly better support and comfort to the legs of an occupant compared to conventional leg rests. The leg rest arrangement of the present disclosure can require minimal parts, resulting in reduced storage and warehousing costs. Furthermore, the leg rest arrangement is easy to install. The leg rest arrangement is also compact and can be retrofitted into existing vehicles. In addition, the leg rest arrangement is cost-effective and requires little maintenance. The present leg rest arrangement offers optimal comfort for taller occupants, preferably in the area of ​​the thighs and calves in combination.The present arrangement features a double-pivot calf support mechanism, allowing the thigh and calf support mechanisms to work in combination. This dual effect provides combined comfort in the thigh and calf area, and the occupant receives support in the thigh, knee, and calf areas.

[0026] The leg rest arrangement for the vehicle comprises a thigh support unit and a calf support unit. The thigh support unit is movably connected to a seat base frame of a reconfigurable seat. The calf support unit is functionally coupled to the thigh support unit. The leg rest arrangement forms a lying surface for the legs of an occupant. The leg rest arrangement can be configured to be moved relative to the reconfigurable seat between an extended position and a retracted position. A thigh adjustment motor and a calf adjustment motor are configured to move the thigh support unit and the calf support unit, respectively, to shift the leg rest arrangement between the extended and retracted positions. Further features and details of the leg rest arrangement can be found in the following sections of this disclosure.The following describes the features of the leg rest arrangement with reference to the . Fig. 1 to 7 explained.

[0027] In the following sections, the present disclosure will be discussed with reference to the Fig. Figures 1 to 7 describe the following. In the figures, the same element or elements having similar functions are identified by the same reference numerals. By general reference to the drawings, a leg rest arrangement for a vehicle for supporting the legs of an occupant is shown according to the teachings of the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and is generally identified in the corresponding figures by reference numeral 100. Other features and elements of the leg rest arrangement (100) are represented in the corresponding figures by corresponding reference numerals [see list of reference numerals], which are used below according to the respective features. It is understood that the teachings of the present disclosure are not limited to a specific vehicle. Furthermore, the corresponding figures only show a section of the vehicle in which the aspects of the present disclosure are implemented.The figures show only a section of the interior, depicting an occupant and a reconfigurable seat, and designated by reference number (200). Accordingly, the drawings show only those specific details that are important for understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure, so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that are readily apparent to those skilled in the art with ordinary knowledge and taking into account the present description.

[0028] The following detailed description is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit application and use. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound to any theory presented in the preceding background or summary, or in the following detailed description. It should be understood that the disclosure may take various alternative directions unless expressly stated otherwise. It should also be understood that the specific devices or components shown in the accompanying drawings and described in the following description are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the accompanying claims.Therefore, specific dimensions or other physical properties relating to the embodiments are not to be considered limiting unless expressly stated otherwise in the claims. Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Although some specific terms are used that point in a particular direction, the use of these terms or words is solely intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention with reference to the drawings. Accordingly, it should be noted that the meaning of these terms or words should not unreasonably restrict the technical scope of the present invention.

[0029] Furthermore, the term "approximation" as "essentially," when used in relation to physical properties in this disclosure, should be understood to encompass a range of deviations that a person skilled in the art would consider satisfactory for a given use, function, purpose, or the like. The term "essentially" is a descriptive term frequently used in disclosures to avoid imposing a strict numerical limit on the specified parameter. The term "essentially" should be read in conjunction with terms such as "perpendicular," "central," "circular," "along a radius," "vertical," "conformal," etc.

[0030] It should also be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein serve descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting. Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "accommodated," "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled," as well as their variations, are used in the broadest sense and include both direct and indirect fastenings, connections, supports, and couplings. Furthermore, the terms "connected" and "coupled" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings. It is understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific devices, methods, applications, conditions, or parameters described and / or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein serves to describe certain embodiments by way of example and is not intended to limit the claimed invention.The following description outlines various embodiments. For explanatory purposes, specific configurations and details are sketched to enable a comprehensive understanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be clear to those skilled in the art that the embodiments can be implemented without these specific details. Furthermore, known features may be omitted or simplified so as not to obscure the described embodiment. The leg rest arrangement (100) used in the vehicle is described below with reference to the... Fig. 1 to 7 explained in context.

[0031] The leg rest arrangement (100) of the present disclosure can be used to rest or place the legs of passengers or occupants seated in a rear compartment of the vehicle. Furthermore, the leg rest arrangement (100) according to the present disclosure can also be used to provide luxurious or ergonomic comfort to the occupant seated in the vehicle [not explicitly shown]. The vehicle may have a plurality of wheels to ensure the vehicle's mobility. In general, the vehicle may have a bumper that is coupled or connectable to a support located at the front end of the vehicle. The vehicle frame may also be referred to as the chassis and is used interchangeably hereafter.The vehicle frame may comprise a pair of left and right lower sections [side frames] extending directly from front to rear and connected to the underside of a metal floor panel, hereinafter also referred to as the floor or floor section of the vehicle. The floor panel is a section that forms a floor surface of the passenger compartment. The floor panel is manufactured, for example, by pressing a steel plate and forms part of the monocoque structure of the vehicle body. The vehicle may further comprise a front section with provisions for receiving a bonnet, which may be configured to cover a space for housing a power unit such as an internal combustion engine or a traction / propulsion motor. The vehicle also comprises a rear end configured to receive a tailgate and to cover the rear compartment of the vehicle.A central section extending between the front and rear ends of the vehicle defines a compartment or cabin for the occupants.

[0032] Furthermore, the passenger compartment includes, among other components, an instrument panel located between the front end and the middle section. The driver's seat and a front passenger seat are attached to the floor panel at the front of the vehicle immediately behind the instrument panel. The driver's seat and the front passenger seat can form the front compartment of the passenger cabin. The passenger cabin can also include a rear compartment for the occupants. The rear compartment can contain several rows of seats in the vehicle. The number of seat rows in the rear compartment can be determined based on the dimensions or size of the vehicle. In the relevant figures, only the seat (200) configured to accommodate the occupant is shown. The seat (200) can be configured as the driver's seat, the front passenger seat, or as a seat for the occupants in the rear compartment, located behind the seats in the front compartment of the vehicle.In this case, the seat (200) can be reconfigured into various positions to provide optimal comfort to the occupant and can therefore be referred to as a reconfigurable seat (200). The terms “reconfigurable seat (200)” and “seat (200)” are used interchangeably before and after this disclosure. The occupant compartment further comprises an insulating layer arranged on the vehicle floor panel. The insulating layer may consist of, but is not limited to, materials including foam, cellulose, fiberglass, mineral wool, and the like. The insulating layer can be provided to reduce NVH values ​​in the vehicle. A carpet layer (not explicitly shown) can be placed over the insulating layer to cover the insulation and improve the aesthetics and ambiance for the occupants.Once the carpet is laid on the insulation layer, the reconfigurable seats (200) can be attached to the floor panel.

[0033] The reconfigurable seat (200) can comprise a seat base segment and a seat back segment, each equipped with a padding component. The seat back segment is adjustably attached to the seat base segment. The seat base segment can include a seat base frame (S), and the seat back segment can include a seat back frame (B). The seat base frame (S) and the seat back frame (B) can be designed to accommodate and support padding components for the occupant.

[0034] The leg rest arrangement (100) of this disclosure can, as described, be located in the rear passenger compartment. The term "rear passenger compartment" should not be considered to be limited to the second row of occupants in the vehicle and can include a plurality of seat rows in the vehicle according to the dimensions or size of the vehicle. The leg rest arrangement (100) of this disclosure can also be located in the front compartment of the vehicle next to the driver's seat, i.e., on the passenger side. In one embodiment, the leg rest arrangement (100) can also be provided for the driver without this deviating from the scope of this disclosure. The leg rest arrangement (100) of this disclosure can be provided in the rear passenger compartment and in the front compartment so that the occupant seated in the respective compartments can rest their legs.The occupant, seated on the vehicle's reconfigurable seat (200), can move the leg rest assembly (100) from a first position to a second position. The first position can also be referred to as the retracted position and is interchangeable. In the retracted position, the leg rest assembly (100) can be stored in a space under the seat (200), preferably under the upholstery element associated with the seat base frame (S). The second position can also be referred to as the extended position and is interchangeable. The occupant can move the leg rest assembly (100) between the first and second positions by actuating a switch. In one embodiment, the leg rest assembly (100) can be selectively actuated between the first and second positions based on preset functions.Preset functions include lounge mode, sleep mode, relaxation mode, and the like, in which the position of the seat (200) is adjusted accordingly. In one implementation, the leg rest assembly (100) can be equipped with a motion sensor capable of detecting a swiping or kicking motion to move the leg rest assembly (100) between the first and second positions. In another example, the leg rest assembly (100) can also be operated manually by the occupant pulling it.

[0035] Conventional leg rests can protrude into the passenger compartment and take up space even when not in use. Furthermore, leg rest arrangements can support either the thighs or the calves. Support for the thighs or calves is achieved through different mechanisms. In contrast to conventional configurations, the leg rest arrangement (100) of the present disclosure can be arranged in a space defined between the floor panel and the seat (200) in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The leg rest arrangement of the present disclosure supports both the thighs and the calves of the occupant through a single mechanism and a single mode of operation. Unlike conventional configurations, this arrangement does not consume any space in the passenger compartment.The leg rest arrangement (100) is described in the following sections with reference to the . Fig. Figures 3-7 explain the calf support unit of the leg rest assembly (100), and reference may be made to them when explaining the components / features of the leg rest assembly (100) herein.

[0036] The leg support arrangement (100) of the present disclosure can comprise a thigh support unit (101) and a calf support unit (103) [clearly recognizable in Fig. 2]. The thigh support unit (101) can be attached to and movably connected to the seat base frame (S) of the reconfigurable seat (200). The thigh support unit (101) can be movably attached to the seat base frame (S) by a plurality of fasteners and bolts or the like. In one embodiment, the thigh support unit (101) can include a thigh adjustment motor (102). The thigh adjustment motor (102) can be configured to linearly move the thigh support unit (101) relative to the seat base frame (S) of the reconfigurable seat (200) between an extended position and a retracted position [the positions are not shown in the figures]. The thigh support unit (101) can be adjusted between the retracted position and the retracted position by at least one actuator, here referred to as the thigh adjustment motor (102).Alternatively, the thigh support unit (101) can also be equipped with other actuating means, e.g., with a pneumatic actuator, a hydraulic actuator, and the like. In one embodiment, the calf support unit (103) is coupled to the thigh support unit (101), as shown in [reference]. Fig. Figure 2 shows the calf support unit (103) comprising a calf adjustment motor (104). In one embodiment, the calf adjustment motor (104) pivots the calf support unit (103) relative to the thigh support unit (101). In another embodiment, the thigh support unit (101) is located entirely above the seat base frame (S), and the calf support unit (103) is positioned substantially perpendicular to the seat base frame (S) when the leg rest assembly (100) is retracted. When the leg rest assembly (100) is extended, the thigh support unit (101) is linearly displaced from the seat base frame (S), and the calf support unit (103) is arranged at an acute angle to the thigh support unit (101).

[0037] Referring to Fig. 3-7 The calf support unit (103) further comprises a guide tube (105), a steering bracket (106), a pair of first coupling brackets (107a, 107b), a pair of second coupling brackets (108a, 108b), and a pair of third coupling brackets (109a, 109b). The guide tube (105) has a first end and a second end. The guide tube (105) is arranged below the thigh support unit (101), as shown in Fig. Figure 3 shows the guide tube (105) being configured to be attached to the steering bracket (106) at an intermediate section of the guide tube (105). The term "intermediate section" refers to a section located between the first and second ends of the guide tube (105). In one embodiment, the calf adjustment motor (104) is functionally connected to the steering bracket (106) to pivot the calf support unit (103) relative to the thigh support unit (101). In another embodiment, the calf adjustment motor (104) is functionally coupled to a shaft (104a) such that one end of the shaft is connected to the steering bracket (106) via fasteners (C).

[0038] According to Fig. Figures 3-7 represent the pair of first coupling brackets (107a, 107b), the pair of second coupling brackets (108a, 108b), and the pair of third coupling brackets (109a, 109b) connected to each other at the first and second ends of the guide tube (105). In one embodiment, each pair of first coupling brackets (107a, 107b), second coupling brackets (108a, 108b), and third coupling brackets (109a, 109b) is connected to each other by rivets or fasteners.

[0039] The calf support unit (103) consists of a longitudinal support (110) and a rotating tube (111) (see Fig. 3, Fig. 5 and Fig. 7) The rotary tube (111) has a first end and a second end. The longitudinal support (110) is arranged between the pair of first coupling supports (107a, 107b) and the pair of third coupling supports (109a, 109b). The longitudinal support (110) is designed to engage with the rotary tube (111) so that the rotary tube (111) is rotatably connected to the pair of first coupling supports (107a, 107b) and the pair of third coupling supports (109a, 109b) at each end. Furthermore, a calf support plate (112) is attached to the pair of third coupling brackets (109a, 109b) so that the actuation of the calf adjustment motor (104) enables a pivoting movement of the calf support plate (112) around the rotary tube (111) into a predefined position, preferably around an axis AA that passes through the center of the rotary tube (111).In one embodiment, the rotary tube (111) is rotatably connected to the first coupling brackets (107a, 107b) and the third coupling brackets (109a, 109b) via at least one pin.

[0040] As from the Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the thigh support unit (101) comprises a guide plate (114). The guide plate (114) movably connects the thigh support unit (101) to the reconfigurable seat (200). In one embodiment, each pair of first coupling brackets (107a, 107b) is provided with an arcuate slot (113) so that the corresponding ends of the guide tube (105) are movably received in the respective arcuate slot (113) of the pair of first coupling brackets (107a, 107b). In another embodiment, each pair of first coupling brackets (107a, 107b) is slidably connected to the guide plate (114) by rivets or fasteners (C). In another embodiment, the thigh support unit (101) comprises a thigh support plate (115). The thigh support plate (115) is movably mounted between the seat base frame (S) and the guide plate (114).In another embodiment, the thigh support unit (101) comprises a first cushion element (116). The first cushion element (116) is attached to the thigh support plate (115). The calf support unit (103) comprises a second cushion element (117). The second cushion element (117) is attached to the calf support plate (112). In another embodiment, the calf adjustment motor (104) is attached to the guide plate (114), which is located below the thigh support plate (115), such that the thigh adjustment motor (102) and the calf adjustment motor (104) are configured to be actuated simultaneously. In yet another embodiment, the thigh adjustment motor (102) is attached to the thigh support plate (115), which is located below the seat base frame (S) of the reconfigurable seat (200).The thigh adjustment motor (102) is configured to move the thigh support unit (101) linearly into the predefined position.

[0041] In one embodiment, when the occupant is seated on the vehicle's reconfigurable seat (200) and wishes to rest their legs on the leg rest arrangement (100), they can extend the leg rest arrangement (100). In another embodiment, the leg rest arrangement (100) can be extended by the occupant by pressing a switch located near the occupant. The switch may be located on a center console in the rear storage compartment. In another embodiment, the leg rest arrangement (100) can be operated via an intuitive screen. According to an alternative embodiment, the leg rest arrangement (100) can automatically adjust between the retracted and extended positions (e.g., by a motion sensor).The operation of the leg rest arrangement (100) can be controlled by a control unit that can be located near the leg rest arrangement (100). When the occupant activates the leg rest arrangement (100), the thigh adjustment motor (102) and the calf adjustment motor (104) can be triggered simultaneously to move the thigh support unit (101) and the calf support unit (103), respectively, in a predefined direction. Activation of the thigh adjustment motor (102) causes the thigh support unit (101) to move along the seat base frame (S) of the reconfigurable seat (200). In an exemplary embodiment, the thigh adjustment motor (102) enables, but is not limited to, a linear movement of the thigh support unit (101) along a length of the seat base frame (S).Alternatively, the thigh adjustment motor (102) can enable an inclined linear movement of the thigh support unit (101) along a length of the seat base frame (S) in a direction “X”, as shown in . Fig. Figure 2 shows that the control unit is configured to actuate / trigger the thigh adjustment motor (102) to allow the thigh support unit (101) to move to a required distance, which depends on the height of the occupant seated on the reconfigurable seat (200). The movement of the thigh support unit (101) can simultaneously move the first cushion element (116) attached to the thigh support unit (101).

[0042] Pressing the switch for adjusting the leg rest arrangement (100) can also simultaneously actuate the calf adjustment motor (104). The calf adjustment motor (104) enables the calf support unit (103) to pivot about a pivot axis (AA) passing through the center of the rotary tube (111). The calf adjustment motor (104) can include a gearbox that converts the rotary motion of the calf adjustment motor (104) into a linear motion of the shaft (104a) operatively connected to the calf adjustment motor (104). The shaft (104a), which is connected to the steering bracket (106) of the calf support unit (103), pushes a lower section of the calf support unit (103) to enable the calf support unit (103) to pivot about the pivot axis (AA).The calf support unit (103), which includes the guide tube (105) attached to the steering bracket (106), is configured to slide along the arc-shaped slot (113) defined in the pair of first coupling brackets (107a, 107b) to limit the pivoting movement of the calf support unit (103) by a predefined pivot angle. Simultaneous actuation of the thigh adjustment motor (102) and the calf adjustment motor (104) can result in smooth and even movement of the thigh support unit (101) and the calf support unit (103), thereby providing comfort to the occupant seated in the reconfigurable seat (200).

[0043] In one embodiment, the leg rest arrangement of the present disclosure can provide the occupant with the possibility of resting and supporting the entire leg area, i.e., both the thighs and the calves. Accordingly, the leg rest arrangement reduces the strain on the occupant's legs. The leg rest arrangement of the present disclosure is compact. The leg rest arrangement of the present disclosure provides an adjustable mechanism that makes it possible to support the legs in different positions with a single operation. Furthermore, the leg rest arrangement of the present disclosure is simple and cost-effective.

[0044] Furthermore, the leg rest assembly can require less maintenance. Advantageously, the leg rest assembly can be used in a range of vehicle series and can also be retrofitted to existing vehicles. The manufacturing costs of the leg rest assembly are lower because fewer parts are needed, thus reducing parts costs.

[0045] It is understood that a person skilled in the art can develop an arrangement with a similar configuration without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. Such modifications and variations can be made without deviating from the scope of the present invention. It is therefore intended that the present disclosure covers such modifications and variations, provided they fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. Equivalents:

[0046] Regarding the use of terms in the plural and / or singular, the expert may translate from plural to singular and / or from singular to plural, depending on the context and / or application. For the sake of clarity, the various singular / plural permutations are explicitly listed here.

[0047] The person skilled in the art will understand that the terms used here, and in particular in the appended claims (e.g., the parts of the appended claims), are generally to be understood as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to", the term "with" as "with at least", the term "comprises" as "comprises but not limited to", etc.). Those skilled in the art will further understand that if a specific number of introduced claims is intended, such intention will be expressly stated in the claim, and if no such statement is made, no such intention exists. For better understanding, the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" may be used in the following claims, for example, to introduce claim formulations.However, the use of such expressions should not be interpreted as meaning that the introduction of a claim enumeration by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits a particular claim containing such an introduced claim enumeration to inventions that contain only such an enumeration, even if the same claim contains the introductory expressions "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and / or "an" should generally be interpreted as meaning "at least one" or "one or more"). The same applies to the use of certain articles to introduce claim formulations. Even if a specific number of introduced claim enumerations is expressly mentioned, the person skilled in the art recognizes that such an enumeration should typically be interpreted as meaning at least the stated number (e.g.,The mere listing of "two enumerations" without further modifiers typically means at least two enumerations or two or more enumerations. Furthermore, in cases where a convention is used analogously to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc.", such a construction is generally meant in the sense in which a person skilled in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system with at least one of A, B, and C" would include, but is not limited to, systems having A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc.). Those skilled in the art know that virtually any disjunctive word and / or disjunctive phrase with two or more alternative terms in the description, claims, or drawings is to be understood as including the possibility of one of the terms, one of the terms, or both of them.For example, the phrase "A or B" includes the possibilities "A" or "B" or "A and B". Although various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed here, other aspects and embodiments are obvious to the person skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed here serve for illustration and are not to be understood as limiting, the true scope being specified by the following claims. Reference symbol list: 100 leg rest arrangement 101 Thigh support unit 102 Thigh adjustment motor 103 Calf support unit 104 Calf adjustment motor 104a wave 105 Guide tube 106 Handlebar mount 107a, 107b Pair of first coupling brackets 108a, 108b Pair of second coupling brackets 109a, 109b Pair of third coupling brackets 110 Longitudinal bracket 111 Rotary tube 112 Calf support plate 113 arc-shaped slit 114 Guide plate 115 Thigh support plate 116 First upholstery element 117 Second upholstery element 200 Reconfigurable Seat S Seat base frame B Seat back frame C Rivets / fasteners QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 102024001031A1

[0005]

Claims

[1] Leg rest arrangement (100) for a vehicle, the arrangement (100) comprising: a thigh support unit (101) which is movably connected to a seat base frame (S) of a reconfigurable seat (200); the thigh support unit (101) includes a thigh adjustment motor (102) configured to move the thigh support unit (101) linearly relative to the seat base frame (S) between an extended position (E) and a retracted position (R); a calf support unit (103) that is functionally coupled to the thigh support unit (101), the calf support unit (103) comprises a calf adjustment motor (104) to pivot the calf support unit (103) relative to the thigh support unit (101); wherein the calf support unit (103) further comprises: a guide tube (105) arranged below the thigh support unit (101) and configured to be attached to a steering bracket (106) in a central section of the guide tube (105), wherein the calf adjustment motor (104) is operationally connected to the steering bracket (106) to pivot the calf support unit (103) relative to the thigh support unit (101); a pair of first coupling brackets (107a, 107b), a pair of second coupling brackets (108a, 108b) and a pair of third coupling brackets (109a, 109b) connected to each other at respective ends of the guide tube (105); a longitudinal support (110) arranged between the pair of first coupling supports (107a, 107b) and the pair of third coupling supports (109a, 109b), wherein the longitudinal support (110) is suitable to engage with a rotary tube (111) such that the rotary tube (111) is rotatably connected to the pair of first coupling supports (107a, 107b) and the pair of third coupling supports (109a, 109b) at each end; and a calf support plate (112) which is attached to the pair of third coupling brackets (109a, 109b) so that the actuation of the calf adjustment motor (104) enables a pivoting movement of the calf support plate (112) around the rotary tube (111) into a predefined position. [2] Arrangement (100) according to claim 1, wherein each pair of first coupling holders (107a, 107b) is provided with an arc-shaped slot (113) so that the corresponding ends of the guide tube (105) are movably received in the respective arc-shaped slot (113) of the pair of first holders. [3] Arrangement (100) according to claim 1, wherein the thigh support unit (101) comprises a guide plate (114) to movably connect the thigh support unit (101) to the reconfigurable seat (200). [4] Arrangement (100) according to claim 3, wherein each pair of first coupling holders (107a, 107b), second coupling holders (108a, 108b) and third coupling holders (109a, 109b) are connected to each other by rivets or fasteners (C); wherein each of the pair of first coupling holders (107a, 107b) is slidably connected to the guide plate (114) by rivets or fasteners (C). [5] Arrangement (100) according to claim 4, wherein the calf adjustment motor (104) is functionally coupled to a shaft (104a) such that one end of the shaft is connected to the steering bracket (106) via fastening elements (C). [6] Arrangement (100) according to claim 4, wherein the thigh support unit (101) comprises a thigh support plate (115) which is movably received between the seat base frame (S) and the guide plate (114). [7] Arrangement (100) according to claim 6, wherein the thigh support unit (101) comprises a first cushioning element (116) attached to the thigh support plate (115), and the calf support unit (103) comprises a second cushioning element (117) attached to the calf support plate (112). [8] Arrangement (100) according to claim 6, wherein the thigh adjustment motor (104) is attached to the guide plate (114) which is arranged below the thigh support plate (115) such that the thigh adjustment motor (102) and the calf adjustment motor (104) are configured to be actuated simultaneously. [9] Arrangement (100) according to claim 6, wherein the thigh adjustment motor (102) is attached to the thigh support plate (115) which is arranged below the seat base frame (S) of the reconfigurable seat (200), and the thigh adjustment motor (102) is configured to move the thigh support unit (101) linearly into a predefined position. [10] Reconfigurable seat (200) for a vehicle, wherein the reconfigurable seat (200) comprises: a seat base frame (S) and a seat back frame (B), each provided with a component for upholstery, wherein the seat back frame (B) is adjustably attached to a seat base frame (S); and a leg rest arrangement (100) configured to support the legs of a user seated on the reconfigurable seat (200), the leg rest arrangement (100) comprising: a thigh support unit (101) which is movably connected to the seat base frame (S) of the reconfigurable seat (200); the thigh support unit (101) includes a thigh adjustment motor (102) configured to move the thigh support unit (101) linearly relative to the seat base frame (S) between an extended (E) and a retracted (R) position; a calf support unit (103) which is operationally coupled to the thigh support unit (101); wherein the calf support unit (103) comprises a calf adjustment motor (104) to pivot the calf support unit (103) relative to the thigh support unit (101); wherein the calf support unit further comprises: a guide tube (105) arranged below the thigh support unit (101) and configured to be attached to a steering bracket (106) in a central section of the guide tube (105), wherein the calf adjustment motor (104) is operationally connected to the steering bracket (106) to pivot the calf support unit (103) relative to the thigh support unit (101); a pair of first coupling brackets (107a, 107b), a pair of second coupling brackets (108a, 108b) and a pair of third coupling brackets (109a, 109b) connected to each other at respective ends of the guide tube (105); a longitudinal support (110) arranged between the pair of first coupling supports (107a, 107b) and the pair of third coupling supports (109a, 109b), wherein the longitudinal support (110) is suitable to engage with a rotary tube (111) such that the rotary tube (111) is rotatably connected to the pair of first coupling supports (107a, 107b) and the pair of third coupling supports (109a, 109b) at each end; and a calf support plate (112) which is attached to the pair of third coupling brackets (109a, 109b) so that the actuation of the calf adjustment motor (104) enables a pivoting movement of the calf support plate (112) around the rotary tube (111) into a predefined position.

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