I have read an article about those. They were invented 15 years ago but could never be brought to the market due to the traditional ball bearing manufacturer cartel and their powerful political lobby. The cartel was able to discredit the inventor with a 'black ops' style misinformation campaign. All the time financing their efforts by selling methamphetamines throughout various cities in the midwest. During this time, the cartel surreptitiously obtained the discredited scientists research and secretly filed their own patent.

Finally they have made it into bicycle pedals to the benefit of all mankind.

I believe there was an 'X files' was based on the above events.