Human-powered drive train

Abstract

Embodiments described herein are configured to receive forces generated by a user moving their appendages, and convert the force into mechanical force and/or energy. More specifically, embodiments may convert axial and/or tangential force into rotational force. The rotational force may be utilized to power devices, drivetrains, vehicles, such as bicycles, tricycles, kayaks, boats, etc.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A human-powered drivetrain comprising:
 a first rigid projection configured to move, the first rigid projection including a first pedal, the first rigid projection including a first plurality of projections positioned on a first surface of the first rigid projection;   a second rigid projection configured to move, the second rigid projection including a second pedal, the second rigid projection including a second plurality of projections positioned on a first surface of the second rigid projection;   a first gear including a first plurality of mating teeth, the mating teeth being configured to interface with the first plurality of projections position on the first surface of the first rigid projection;   a second gear including a second plurality of mating teeth, the second mating teeth being configured to interface with the second plurality of projections position on the second surface of the second rigid projection; and   an axle including the first gear positioned on a first end of the axle and the second gear positioned on the first end of the axle, wherein the axle is configured to move in a first direction responsive to the first gear or the second gear being rotated.