A seating system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a seating system (200) configured to enhance user comfort during prolonged seating durations. The seating system (200) includes a seat (205) defining a seating surface for supporting a user in a seated position and having an underside region. Disposed beneath the seat (205) is at least one retractable foot support (210), configured to extend outward from the base of the seat (205) into an operative position. The retractable foot support (210) is adapted to support the heel of the user's foot at a height proximate to the level of the seat (205), thereby enabling the user to adopt a bent-knee posture with the lower leg resting comfortably along the seat surface. This ergonomic configuration aids in reducing thigh pressure, improving blood circulation, and allowing for culturally preferred seating styles, such as Indian-style cross-legged postures.

Description

[0001] A SEATING SYSTEM

[0002] FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to the field of seating systems.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] The background information herein below relates to the present disclosure but is not necessarily prior art.

[0006] The present disclosure relates generally to seating systems, and more particularly to seating arrangements designed for long-duration sitting environments such as aircraft cabins, theatres, waiting lounges, buses, and other public or semi-public spaces where individuals are often required to remain seated for extended periods. In such settings, user comfort becomes critical, particularly with respect to lower limb posture and circulation.

[0007] Extended static sitting, particularly with legs hanging vertically or resting flat on the floor, can result in various health and comfort issues. These include impaired blood circulation, leg swelling, muscular fatigue, and general discomfort. In severe cases, long immobility has been linked to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a potentially life-threatening condition. It is widely recognized that alternating leg positions and elevating the feet periodically can alleviate such risks and improve user comfort.

[0008] In many cultures, users prefer to occasionally raise one leg by bending the knee and resting the heel on the seating surface. However, most conventional seating systems, especially those with limited seat pan length, do not accommodate this posture due to a lack of physical support for the heel when the foot is drawn up. Users with larger body types, especially those with thicker thighs or limited hip flexibility, often find it difficult or impossible to comfortably bend a leg and rest it close to the seat level without additional support.

[0009] Conventional footrests, when provided, are typically floor-mounted and serve a very different ergonomic purpose; they elevate both legs symmetrically in a stretched posture rather than enabling a relaxed bent-knee posture. Further, exiting aircraft and theatre seats are configured for compactness and stackability, leaving little scope for permanent or bulky foot support additions. Therefore, there exists a significant need for a compact, user-adjustable, and retractable foot support mechanism that can be deployed on demand without intruding into adjacent passenger space or violating safety and spatial constraints.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need for a system that alleviates the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0011] OBJECTS

[0012] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies, are as follows:

[0013] It is an object of the present disclosure to ameliorate one or more problems of the prior art or to at least provide a useful alternative.

[0014] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a seating system with a retractable foot support that enables a user to rest one or both feet in an elevated position while seated, thereby allowing a bent-knee posture for enhanced ergonomic comfort.

[0015] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a seating system that reduces lower limb fatigue and improves blood circulation during long-duration sitting by enabling periodic alternation of leg positions.

[0016] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a seating system that is compact and space-efficient, making the seating system suitable for use in space-constrained environments such as aircraft cabins, trains, buses, and theatres.

[0017] Still yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a seating system that requires minimal user effort.

[0018] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a seating system that enhances user comfort without compromising safety.

[0019] Still yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a seating system that is ergonomic to enhance user comfort.

[0020] Other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description, which is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. SUMMARY

[0021] The present disclosure envisages a seating system. The system comprises a seat defining a seating surface to support a user in a seated position and an underside region. At least one retractable foot support is configured to be disposed underneath the base of the seat. The retractable foot support is configured to extend outward from beneath the base of the seat to support a user’s foot at a height proximate to the level of the seat. Further, the retractable foot support is configured to receive the heel of the user when the user bends the knee to elevate the lower leg.

[0022] In an embodiment, the base of the seat includes two independently extendable retractable foot supports, each aligned with a corresponding leg of the user.

[0023] In an embodiment, each of the retractable foot supports is biased to return to a retracted position by a spring -loaded mechanism or an automated motorized retraction means.

[0024] In an embodiment, the retractable foot support is configured with a guide mechanism to facilitate the stable extension and retraction of the retractable foot support beneath the seat. The guide mechanism is selected from a group consisting of sliding rails, pivoted arms, telescoping support arms, magnetic latch, scissor arm, hydraulic means and any combination thereof.

[0025] In an embodiment, the retractable foot support includes a platform having a contoured or concave upper surface with a non-slip texture adapted to secure the heel of the user and improve comfort. The contoured surface includes a cushioning layer selected from memory foam, gel material, or elastomeric padding to enhance comfort during prolonged seating.

[0026] In an embodiment, the height and angular orientation of the retractable foot support are configured to support the user’s heel while allowing the lower leg to rest in a bent position along the surface of the seat.

[0027] In an embodiment, the seating system is selected from an office chair, a recliner, a theatre seat, a vehicle seat, or an aircraft passenger seat. The retractable foot support is configured for attachment to a variety of seating structures, including chairs, aircraft seats, vehicle seats, recliner or theatre seats. In an embodiment, the retractable foot support is adapted to be manually extended or automatically deployed via a control-sensor interface linked to the motorized retraction means, wherein the retractable foot support is configured to be retrofitted to the seat.

[0028] In an embodiment, the retractable foot support includes a hinge-lock configuration to allow adjustment of the angular orientation of the platform.

[0029] The present disclosure also envisages a method of operating the seating system, the method comprising the following steps:

[0030] • extending the retractable foot support outward from beneath the base of the seat either manually or by automatic deployment;

[0031] • positioning a user’s foot heel on the extended foot support, elevating the lower leg into a bent-knee posture along the surface of the seat;

[0032] • maintaining the foot support in the extended position during seated use; and

[0033] • retracting the foot support beneath the base of the seat when leg support is no longer required, either by manual push or automated retraction.

[0034] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

[0035] A seating system of the present disclosure, will now be described with the help of the accompanying drawing in which:

[0036] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of a conventional seating system with a user seated thereon;

[0037] Figure 2 illustrates a side view of a seating system with a retractable foot support in the extended position, in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 3 illustrates a side view of the seating system with the retractable foot support in a retracted position, of Figure 2;

[0039] Figure 4 illustrates a top view of the seating system with the two independent retractable foot supports, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 5 illustrates a side view of the seating system with the retractable support and a user sitting thereon, in accordance with the present disclosure; and

[0040] Figure 6 illustrates a flow chart depicting a method of operating said seating system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0041] LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

[0042] 100 - Conventional seating system

[0043] 105 - Conventional back support

[0044] 110 - Conventional seat support

[0045] 200 - Seating system of the present disclosure

[0046] 205 - Seat / Base of the seat in the disclosed system

[0047] 210 - Retractable foot support (general)

[0048] 210A - First retractable foot support

[0049] 210B - Second retractable foot support

[0050] 220 - Platform of the retractable foot support

[0051] 225 - Compartment beneath the seat for housing foot support

[0052] 300 - Method of operating the seating system

[0053] 302-306 - Method steps

[0054] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] The present disclosure relates to a seating system, and more particularly, to a seat with a retractable foot support mechanism that enables users to rest one or both feet in an elevated, bent-knee posture. The present disclosure is especially relevant to seating in space-constrained environments such as aircraft, theatres, and lounges, and provides a compact, ergonomic, and user-adjustable solution for enhancing comfort during prolonged sitting. Embodiments are provided so as to thoroughly and fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to the person skilled in the art. Numerous details are set forth, relating to specific components, and methods, to provide a complete understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to the person skilled in the art that the details provided in the embodiments should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, well-known processes, well-known apparatus structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail.

[0056] The terminology used, in the present disclosure, is only for the purpose of explaining a particular embodiment and such terminology shall not be considered to limit the scope of the present disclosure. As used in the present disclosure, the forms "a,” "an," and "the" may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly suggests otherwise. The terms "comprises," "comprising," “including,” and “having,” are open ended transitional phrases and therefore specify the presence of stated features, elements, modules, units and / or components, but do not forbid the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0057] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of a conventional seating system with a user seated thereon.

[0058] Referring to Figure 1, generally, the seating system includes a back support (105) and a seat support (110). The height of the seat (110) allows a user to keep their legs on the floor. However, for extended periods, when legs are kept on the floor as in normal seating, the blood circulation gets affected, and general fatigue sets in, which makes people very uncomfortable. The stagnation is known to be fatal at times. Further, when the user wishes to keep his feet raised on the seat (110) support itself in the Indian Style, it is hindered by the length of the seat (110). Many people, especially those with fat thighs, have to keep their foot soles away from their hips at a distance where it is not supported by the seat (110) floor.

[0059] Embodiments, of the present disclosure, will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawing.

[0060] A seating system (200) of the present disclosure, will now be described in detail with reference to Figure 2 through Figure 5.

[0061] Referring to Figure 2, the seating system (200) is configured with at least one retractable foot support (210) for enhancing user comfort during prolonged seating durations. The seating system (200) comprises a seat (205) defining a seating surface for supporting a user in a seated position and an underside region. The retractable foot support (210) is configured to be disposed underneath the base of the seat (205).

[0062] The retractable foot support (210) is configured to be extendable outward from beneath the base of the seat (205) to support a user’s foot at a height proximate to the level of the seat (205) and is configured to receive the heel of the user when the user bends the knee to elevate the lower leg.

[0063] In an embodiment, the retractable foot support (210) is housed beneath the seat (205) in a compartment (225), allowing for a compact and integrated form factor that does not interfere with normal use when stowed. The retractable foot support (210) is configured to be slidably received within the compartment (225) as shown in Figures 2 and 3.

[0064] In an embodiment, the base of the seat (205) includes two independently extendable retractable foot supports (210A, 210B), each aligned with a corresponding leg of the user as shown in Figure 4. This configuration allows the user to selectively support either leg or both legs simultaneously based on comfort and space constraints.

[0065] Each retractable foot support (210A, 210B) is extendable outward from beneath the seat (205) into an operative position where it provides a stable platform (220) to support the heel of a user’s foot at a height approximately level with the seating surface. This configuration enables the user to adopt a bent-knee posture where the lower leg is supported along the surface of the seat (205), reducing pressure on the thighs and enhancing blood circulation. This posture is culturally preferred in Indian-style seating, where one or both feet are drawn toward the seat surface during prolonged periods..

[0066] In an embodiment, the platform (220) of the retractable foot support (210) has a contoured or concave upper surface with a non-slip texture adapted to secure the heel of the user and improve comfort.

[0067] In an embodiment, the platform (220), the contoured surface of the platform (220) includes a cushioning layer selected from memory foam, gel material, or elastomeric padding to enhance comfort during prolonged seating. In an embodiment, each retractable foot support (210A, 21 OB) is operatively coupled to a biasing mechanism configured to automatically return the support to its retracted position.

[0068] In an embodiment, the biasing mechanism may be spring-loaded or automated motorized retraction means. In another embodiment, the motorized variant can be linked to the seat’s (205) control interface and optionally equipped with sensors or buttons for user actuation.

[0069] In an embodiment, the seating system (200) may be equipped with sensors or buttons for autodeployment.

[0070] To facilitate stable extension and retraction from beneath the seat (205), the retractable foot support (210A, 210B) is operably connected to a guide mechanism. The guide mechanism is selected from a group consisting of sliding rails, pivoted arms, or telescoping support arms, magnetic latch, scissor arm, hydraulic means and any combination thereof to enhance structural integrity and deployment efficiency.

[0071] In an embodiment, the height and angular orientation of said retractable foot support (210) are configured to support the user’s heel while allowing the lower leg to rest comfortably in a bent position along the surface of the seat (205).

[0072] In an embodiment, the seating system (200) is equipped with a height adjustment mechanism configured to accommodate variations in user height or leg length. This mechanism allows the position, height, or angular orientation of the retractable foot support (210) to be modified, ensuring optimal ergonomic support tailored to individual user anatomy and comfort preferences.

[0073] In an embodiment, the platform (220) may incorporate a hinge-lock mechanism that permits adjustment of the incline angle based on user preference or ergonomic need.

[0074] In an embodiment, the seating system (200) is selected from an office chair, a recliner, a theatre seat, a vehicle seat, or an aircraft passenger seat. The retractable foot support (210) is configured for attachment to a variety of seating structures, including chairs, aircraft seats, vehicle seats, recliner or theatre seats.

[0075] In an embodiment, the retractable foot support (210) is adapted to be manually extended or automatically deployed via a control-sensor interface linked to the motorized retraction means. The retractable foot support (210) is further configured to be retrofitted to the seat (110) of the conventional seating system (100), making it a versatile solution adaptable to various seating configurations.

[0076] In an embodiment, multiple seats (205) configured with such retractable foot support (210) may be arranged in rows within an aircraft cabin or theatre, without significant impact on adjacent seating or floor clearance.

[0077] In an embodiment, materials for constructing the retractable foot support (210) and platform (220) are selected from lightweight aluminium alloys, reinforced polymers, or composite structures engineered to comply with load-bearing and fire-safety regulations, especially for transport and aviation applications.

[0078] The present disclosure also envisages a method (300) of operating the seating system (200) as depicted in Figure 6. The method comprises the following steps:

[0079] Step 302: extending the retractable foot support (210) outward from beneath the base of the seat (205) either manually or by automatic deployment;

[0080] Step 304: positioning a user’s foot heel on the extended foot support (210), elevating the lower leg into a bent-knee posture along the surface of the seat (205);

[0081] Step 306: maintaining the foot support (210) in the extended position during seated use; and

[0082] Step 308: retracting the foot support (210) beneath the base of the seat (205) when leg support is no longer required, either by manual push or automated retraction.

[0083] The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Individual components of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment but are interchangeable. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0084] TECHNICAL ADVANCES AND ECONOMICAL SIGNIFICANCE

[0085] The present disclosure described hereinabove has several technical advantages, including, but not limited to, a seating system that; enables users to elevate one or both feet into a bent-knee posture, thereby enhancing ergonomic comfort during extended periods of sitting;

[0086] • allows seating by providing heel support close to seat level;

[0087] • reduces fatigue and improves lower limb circulation by facilitating alternate leg positions, thereby mitigating health risks such as deep vein thrombosis;

[0088] • integrates a compact, retractable foot support mechanism within the seat base, preserving overall seat footprint and adjacent legroom;

[0089] • provides independent actuation for each foot support, offering user-customizable comfort without interfering with neighbouring seats;

[0090] • includes a spring-loaded or motorized retraction mechanism to allow intuitive and safe stowing of the foot support when not in use;

[0091] • features an ergonomically contoured, non-slip support surface to stabilize the heel and enhance user comfort during use; and

[0092] • is suitable for integration in aircraft, theatre, lounge, and transport seating systems, while complying with space, weight, and safety requirements.;

[0093] The foregoing disclosure has been described with reference to the accompanying embodiments which do not limit the scope and ambit of the disclosure. The description provided is purely by way of example and illustration.

[0094] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.

[0095] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and / or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.

[0096] Any discussion of devices, articles or the like that has been included in this specification is solely for the purpose of providing a context for the disclosure. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form a part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the disclosure as it existed anywhere before the priority date of this application.

[0097] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the components and component parts of the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other changes in the preferred embodiment as well as other embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A seating system (200), comprising:• a seat (205) defining a seating surface to support a user in a seated position and an underside region; and• at least one retractable foot support (210) configured to be disposed underneath the base of the seat (205), wherein said retractable foot support (210) is configured to be extendable outward from beneath the base of the seat (205) to support a user’s foot at a height proximate to the level of said seat (210), and wherein said retractable foot support (210) is configured to receive the heel of the user when the user bends the knee to elevate the lower leg.

2. The seating system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the base of the seat (210) includes two independently extendable retractable foot supports (210A, 210B), each aligned with a corresponding leg of the user.

3. The seating system (200) as claimed in claim 2, wherein each of said retractable foot supports (210A, 210B) is biased to return to a retracted position by a spring -loaded mechanism or an automated motorized retraction means.

4. The seating system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said retractable foot support (210A, 210B) is configured with a guide mechanism to facilitate stable extension and retraction of said retractable foot support (210A, 210B) beneath said seat (205), wherein said guide mechanism is selected from a group consisting of sliding rails, pivoted arms, or telescoping support arms, magnetic latch, scissor arm, hydraulic means and any combination thereof.

5. The seating system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said retractable foot support (210) includes a platform (220) having a contoured or concave upper surface with a non-slip texture adapted to secure the heel of the user and improve comfort, wherein said contoured surface includes a cushioning layer selected from memory foam, gel material, or elastomeric padding to enhance comfort during prolonged seating.

6. The seating system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the height and angular orientation of said retractable foot support (210) is configured to support the user’s heel while allowing the lower leg to rest in a bent position along the surface of the seat (205).

7. The seating system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said seating system (200) is selected from an office chair, a recliner, a theatre seat, a vehicle seat, or an aircraft passenger seat, and wherein said retractable foot support (210) is configured for attachment to a variety of seating structures including chairs, aircraft seats, vehicle seats, recliner or theatre seats.

8. The seating system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said retractable foot support (210) is adapted to be manually extended or automatically deployed via a control-sensor interface linked to said motorized retraction means, wherein said retractable foot support (210) is configured to be retrofitted to the seat (110).

9. The seating system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said retractable foot support (210) includes a hinge-lock configuration to allow adjustment of the angular orientation of the platform.

10. A method (300) of operating said seating system (200) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, said method comprising the following steps:• extending said retractable foot support (210) outward from beneath the base of the seat (205) either manually or by automatic deployment;• positioning a user’s foot heel on said extended foot support (210), elevating the lower leg into a bent-knee posture along the surface of the seat (205);• maintaining said foot support (210) in the extended position during seated use; and retracting said foot support (210) beneath the base of the seat (205) when leg support is no longer required, either by manual push or automated retraction.

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