Dynamic Analysis Of A Novel Manpowered Transportation Vehicle With High Mechanical Efficiency

Abstract

This paper evaluates the dynamics of a novel manpowered transportation vehicle. The vehicle has a novel mechanism that maximizes the mechanical input work and utilizes the weight of the rider for propulsion. The rider applies reciprocating stepping linear forces to drive chain and ratchet mechanism. The later transfer the reciprocating motion into a unidirectional rotational motion at the rear wheel to propel the vehicle. We analyzed the dynamics of the driving and transmission mechanism and derived the equations of motion, at first. Then, we evaluated the performance of the vehicle. Results show significant advantages of the novel driving mechanism.