Early models found in China dating back to the Western Han dynasty (202 BC - 9 AD) were used for winnowing fans and grinding grain.
In daily language, the phrase "crank up" means to start something mechanical or to increase the level/volume of something (e.g., "crank up the music"). If you'd like, I can provide more specific details on: How to fix a stiff engine crankshaft Early models found in China dating back to
A crank consists of a crank arm (or web), a shaft (or axle), and a crank pin. a shaft (or axle)
Evidence of hand-cranked rotary handmills appeared in Spain (5th Century BC) and later Greece. A 2nd-century AD Roman iron crankshaft was found in Switzerland. Early models found in China dating back to