https://www.pedalpc.com

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The PedalPC is a human-powered computer desk that allows you to
exercise and generate electricity while you work.

It is intended for engineers, software developers, and other
technical people (like me!) who want to be more energy-independent
and physically active when working from home.

The design is based on what I have learned powering my home office
using only human power for more than 10 years.

Here's a brief video describing it (click the image to load the
Youtube embed video):

What You Can Do with a PedalPC?

The desk can generate up to 70 W of electricity, depending on how
hard and how fast you pedal.

That's enough to power the following equipment:

  * a laptop or small desktop computer
  * monitor
  * inkjet printer
  * modem/router
  * desktop cooling fan
  * small web server

...while simultaneously recharging:

  * phones and tablets
  * AA/AAA batteries
  * battery-powered LED lights
  * other small battery-powered devices

It CANNOT do the following:

  * power your refrigerator
  * cook food
  * run power tools

These tasks consume more power than a person could comfortably
supply.

How It Works

the primary parts of the PedalPC

 1. You pedal the generator, which generates electricity.
 2. The battery smooths its output, storing the excess you produce
    for use later when you're not pedaling.
 3. The control box monitors your power production and consumption.
 4. Four 12 V and 8 USB power sockets supply power to your equipment.
 5. A small computer generates a dashboard you view with your web
    browser (see screenshot below--click to see the full-size
    version).

PedalPC dashboard screenshot PedalPC dashboard screenshot

Features & Benefits

The PedalPC offers the following features:

Dependable

user working at desk in the dark

The generator outputs the same amount of electricity, no matter the
time of day or weather conditions outside.

Accessible

desk pivoted forward and user stepping over the generator prior to
using it

The desktop pivots forward to make it easier to get on and off.

Adjustable

[adjustable-desk]

Both the seat and desk adjust to fit your body.

Comfortable

seat and mesh seat back

The desk has a large padded seat and mesh back to allow you to work
for long periods.

Portable

desk folded up and sitting on floor

The desk folds into a compact size to make it easy to carry, with
built-in rollers to make it easy to move.

Durable

seat adjustment clamp

Made from rugged, rustproof anodized aluminum to last a long time.

Comparison to Alternatives

The PedalPC is not for everyone.

If a high-intensity workout is more important to you than generating
electricity, then you want an exercise bike, not the PedalPC.

If you want to generate significant amounts of electricity in the
most efficient manner possible at the lowest cost-per-watt, then you
want an array of solar panels, not the PedalPC.

But if you are moderately healthy, would like to generate modest
amounts of electricity in any situation under any condtions, want a
moderate workout without wasting time, and can tolerate a small
amount of generator noise, then a PedalPC might be for you.

If you are interested in having one built for you, please contact me.

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If you have any questions or comments, please contact me.

(c) 2023 Jim Gregory