Patent ID: 6253639
Filing Date: 2001-07-03
Classification: B62M,Y10T

Abstract:
An extensible crank assembly for use with a crankshaft having a longitudinal axis, said crank assembly comprisinga crank adapted to be operably attached to said crankshaft and to rotate in a first direction with respect to said longitudinal axis,an extending portion adapted to extend away from said crank, the entire said extending portion being radially movable with respect to said crank,means for mechanically coupling said extending portion to said crank wherein:(i) rotation of said extending portion in said first direction causes rotation of said crank a first known amount in said first direction, and(ii) movement of said extending portion radially away from said crank causes rotation of said crank a second known amount in said first direction, and(iii) the total rotation of said crank caused by said extending portion while being rotated in said first direction and in being extended radially is the sum of said first known amount and said second known amount.