A mechanical wheel turned by human foot power, usually connected to a crank or treadle linkage. It converts reciprocal leg motion into continuous rotary motion to drive small machinery like lathes, sewing machines, or grindstones. It is an older, manual method of providing mechanical work where electric power is unavailable or fine speed control is needed.
Heard on the job
He still uses an old footwheel lathe for turning small brass fittings because it gives him perfect control over the feed rate.
Also heard as
- treadle wheel