One-Piece Plastic Bottle Cage for Strollers with Spiral Clamp

The problem

Many stroller accessories consist of multiple parts joined by fasteners. In the case of bottle holders, users frequently encounter issues where the holder shifts position along the handlebar or twists downward when a child grabs the bottle. Traditional designs may require separate brackets, screws, and rubber pads, increasing assembly time and the number of components that can fail or get lost. Furthermore, rigid mounting holes do not accommodate slight differences in stroller frame diameters or bracket shapes, making installation difficult across different models. A solution is needed that reduces part count, simplifies installation, and maintains stability during active use.

The solution

The patent describes a bottle cage constructed from a single piece of plastic material. The design integrates three functional zones into one molded body:

1. Main Support Frame (1): The primary body that holds the bottle or cup. It is shaped to cradle the container securely.
2. Spiral Clamp (2): Formed as part of the main frame, this section features a helical or spiral shape designed to wrap around the stroller’s tubular frame. This eliminates the need for a separate clamp mechanism.
3. Support Piece (3): Located at the rear of the main frame, this flat extension provides the attachment point. It is also molded as one piece with the rest of the unit.

The key feature of the support piece is its hole pattern. It includes an oval screw hole (4) in the middle and circular screw holes (5) at both ends. This configuration allows the installer to slide the mounting bolt within the oval range to find the best fit for the stroller frame, while the fixed circular holes provide additional anchor points to prevent rotation.

Who it is for

• Stroller Brands: Companies looking to offer affordable, easy-to-install accessories that reduce SKU complexity and assembly labor.
• Aftermarket Sellers: Businesses selling universal stroller attachments that need to fit a wide variety of frame diameters using a single part design.
• OEM Manufacturers: Factories specializing in injection molding who want to produce high-volume, low-part-count items with minimal secondary assembly steps.
• Parents: End-users seeking a sturdy holder that does not loosen or twist when their child interacts with the bottle during walks.

How it works

The main parts

The entire device is made of plastic. The structural integrity relies on the monolithic molding process, ensuring no joints between the clamp, the holder, and the mount.

Installation and Use

1. Positioning: The user places the spiral clamp (2) around the desired location on the stroller handlebar or frame tube.
2. Adjustment: The support piece (3) is aligned with the mounting point on the stroller. The oval hole (4) allows the bolt to move slightly forward or backward to clear frame obstructions or match existing threads.
3. Securing: Fasteners are inserted through the oval and circular holes. Because these holes are integral to the single plastic piece, tightening them locks the spiral clamp against the tube.
4. Usage: Once installed, the oval hole’s geometry combined with the circular holes prevents the holder from twisting when lateral force is applied, such as when a child pulls on the bottle.

Applications

Universal Stroller Attachments

This design suits aftermarket kits sold online where fitting multiple stroller brands is required. The oval slot accommodates varying frame thicknesses, reducing return rates due to incompatibility.

Budget-Friendly Retail Bundles

Retailers selling entry-level strollers often include basic accessories. A one-piece mold lowers production costs compared to multi-part metal assemblies, allowing manufacturers to bundle a cup holder without significantly raising the retail price.

Lightweight Travel Systems

For compact folding strollers, weight is a critical factor. Using plastic instead of metal brackets reduces the overall mass of the accessory, which is beneficial for parents carrying the stroller onto public transport or storing it in small cars.

Quick-Release Accessory Kits

While the patent shows a screw-mounted design, the single-piece nature simplifies manufacturing for versions that might use quick-release pins. The structural rigidity provided by the integrated spiral clamp supports frequent removal and reattachment without deforming the mounting interface.

Where it is less suitable

• Heavy-Duty Industrial Carts: The plastic construction may not withstand the extreme vibrations or impacts found in commercial logistics equipment.
• High-Temperature Environments: Standard plastics used in consumer goods may deform if left in direct sunlight in very hot climates for extended periods, unlike some metal alternatives.
• Complex Curved Frames: The spiral clamp is designed for relatively straight or gently curved tubes; highly irregular frame geometries may not allow for a secure grip.