Pedaldruck

Pedaldruck, literally pedal pressure or pedal force, refers to the force exerted by a person on a pedal with the foot. It is a fundamental input in many human–machine interfaces and is relevant in applications such as motor vehicles, bicycles, and pedal-operated equipment. The amount of pedaldruck a system requires is influenced by pedal geometry, travel, and the response of the connected mechanism.

In motor vehicles, pedaldruck is translated into a response that controls the system, most notably the braking or clutch system. The brake pedal, for example, converts pedal force into hydraulic brake pressure that actuates the brake calipers. The clutch pedal similarly modulates engagement through a cable or hydraulic circuit. Designers seek a predictable pedal feel and appropriate pedal travel, ensuring safe and effective operation across a range of speeds and conditions.

In bicycles, pedaldruck denotes the force applied to the pedal during the pedal cycle. This force, together with the crank length and pedal cadence, determines the torque at the crank and thus the power output (power = torque × angular velocity). Pedal forces vary throughout a cycle and between riders, with higher peak forces occurring during sprints, climbs, or when accelerating.

Measurement and analysis of pedaldruck can be done with force sensors mounted on pedals or crank arms, or indirectly via hydraulic pressure in pedal-operated systems. In cycling, power meters compute pedal power by combining torque and cadence. Pedaldruck is a key factor in ergonomics, performance, and safety.