Bicycle Cup Holder with Worm-Drive Automatic Clamping Mechanism

Patent & Production

At a glance

What the claims cover, in plain language

Claim 1 describes a bicycle cup holder comprising a water cup fixing seat (1) with an external fixing clamp-seat (2). The seat includes a turbine fixing seat (3) holding a turbine (6) on an axle (5), which carries cup folders (4). A worm screw (7) engages the turbine. The worm screw has a gear (8) that meshes with a rack gear (9). The rack gear supports a bottom plate (13) above a compressed spring (15). The top of the rack gear hinges a cup baffle (11) with a groove (14) that catches an elastic hook (12) on the seat. Pressing the cup down moves the rack, rotating the turbine to close the folders, while lifting the baffle to lock it under the hook.

Claim 2 specifies that the fixing clamp-seat (2) is bolted to the bicycle frame. Claim 3 states that the cup folder (4) has an arcuate (curved) structure.

This is a simplified reading for orientation only. The legal scope is defined by the exact claim wording in the official Chinese document.

What this means for US production

This patent was filed in China and has lapsed, so it no longer restricts anyone in China either. The public record shows no US or other foreign counterpart.

Two points to settle early:

• Other patents may exist. Bicycle accessories are a crowded field with many existing patents for bottle cages, especially those involving locking mechanisms or quick-release features. A freedom-to-operate (FTO) review is recommended to ensure the specific worm-drive linkage does not infringe on active US patents held by major cycling component manufacturers.
• Mechanical Reliability. The complexity of the gear train (worm, turbine, rack) introduces multiple failure points compared to simple friction cages. Prototyping must focus on wear resistance and alignment tolerances.

Customization and manufacturing

What can be customized

Things to plan for (US market)

• CPSC General Requirements: While bicycles themselves are regulated, accessories like bottle holders generally fall under general consumer product safety rules regarding sharp edges and durability.
• Proposition 65: If using plastics or metals with lead/cadmium traces, California warnings may be required depending on material sourcing.

How a project runs

1. Inquiry - Define target bottle sizes, material preference, and mounting constraints.
2. Design - Finalize gear ratios, spring selection, and folder curvature.
3. Prototype - Create functional samples to test the worm-drive smoothness and locking action.
4. Pilot Run - Assemble small batches to check for alignment issues and noise.
5. Production - Mold or machine parts, assemble gears, install springs, and package.

Quantities & timeline

Tooling costs depend heavily on whether aluminum extrusion or injection molding is chosen. Injection molds for the gear train require high precision to prevent binding. Assembly time is higher than standard cages due to the multi-part linkage. Send us your material choice, target quantity, and specific bottle dimensions and we will reply with options.

Production notes

Tooling and process

The core mechanism relies on precise gear meshing. Typically, the worm screw and turbine would be produced via glass-filled nylon injection molding to reduce weight and cost, though metal gears offer higher durability. The fixing clamp-seat is likely made through aluminum extrusion or stamping. Screws and bolts are used for final assembly.

Cost drivers

Number of molds is typically a primary driver because the gear train consists of several interlocking parts (rack, gear, turbine, folders). Weight impacts shipping costs if metal is used. Fastener count increases assembly labor time compared to snap-fit designs.

Prototyping path

We would typically start with 3D-printed parts to verify the kinematic movement of the rack and worm screw. Once the geometry is confirmed, produce a functional sample with machined gears to test torque and smoothness. An impact test sample should follow to ensure the holder withstands road vibrations.

What we would change before tooling

We would likely simplify the hinge boss design of the cup baffle to improve mold flow and reduce stress concentration. We might also adjust the thread engagement of the mounting bolts to allow for easier installation on varied frame angles.

Common failure points

Shaft and bearing alignment is critical; misalignment causes the worm drive to bind. Spring fatigue could lead to weak return force over time. Cracking under impact is a risk for plastic gears if the wall thickness is insufficient. Bolts loosening due to vibration is another potential issue.

Patent drawings

Drawings reproduced from the public patent document for reference.

Frequently asked questions

How does the automatic clamping work?

When you push the cup down, it moves a rack gear inside the holder. This rack turns a worm screw, which rotates a turbine connected to the side clamps. The clamps swing inward to grip the cup. At the same time, a top baffle rises and locks under a hook to secure the lid area.

Is it difficult to take the cup out?

No. You simply rotate the top baffle manually to unhook it. Once released, an internal spring pushes the cup back up, which reverses the gears and opens the side clamps. You can then lift the cup straight out.

What materials are used?

The patent does not specify materials. In production, we typically use glass-filled nylon for the gears and turbine to balance strength and weight. The outer shell and mount can be aluminum or durable plastic, depending on the desired finish and cost.

Will it fit my bike?

The holder attaches via a fixing clamp-seat bolted to the frame. It requires a standard round or oval tube section for mounting. Compatibility depends on the available space on your specific bike frame and the diameter of the tubes.

Can it hold large water bottles?

The stroke of the rack gear determines the maximum height and diameter of the cup it can accommodate. Standard cycling bottles (600-750ml) are the typical target. Larger mugs or wide-mouth jars may not fit within the travel range of the mechanism.

Does the mechanism rattle or get noisy?

Properly aligned gears should run smoothly. However, because there are moving parts like the worm screw and rack, some slight mechanical noise is possible. Using lubricated plastic gears helps minimize sound and wear.

Can this design be made and sold in the US?

The patent was filed in China and has lapsed, and the public record shows no US counterpart, so it does not restrict the design in the US or in China. Bicycle accessories may be covered by other US patents - see Patent & Production - so we recommend a freedom-to-operate check before volume production.

Are you affiliated with the patent owner?

No. IP2M is an independent design and manufacturing service working from the public patent document.

Request a quote

Click Request a Quote below to see our email address - copy it, or open your email app with a ready-made message. Please mention patent CN208616111U in the subject.

Helpful details to include:

• Your company and channel (cycling brand, e-bike maker, accessory retailer)
• Target bottle dimensions (diameter and height)
• Preferred materials (plastic vs. metal)
• Mounting constraints on your bike frames
• Estimated quantity and target price
• Timeline - when you would like samples and the first shipment

You can also reach us at (332) 203-9997.