Stellantis (FCA US) has been granted a new patent by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for removable adjustable panel locating brackets, a feature designed to improve the fit and customization of removable vehicle components. This innovation is particularly significant for open-air vehicles like the Jeep® Wrangler (JL), Gladiator (JT), and the upcoming Recon (EJ), all of which emphasize modularity and personalization.
The patent, officially granted on January 21, 2025, outlines a panel adjustment assembly that allows for both lateral and vertical adjustments, ensuring a secure, customizable, and precise fit for removable panels such as doors and quarter-panel windows. This is especially important as these panels can experience wear and shifting over time due to manufacturing tolerances, off-road conditions, and regular use.
The system consists of two main brackets: a first bracket that is fixed to the panel and a second bracket with receiving openings. Two adjusters are integrated:
- The first adjuster modifies the gap between the two brackets.
- The second adjuster, featuring a locating pin, adjusts the gap between the second bracket and the vehicle itself.
This technology could significantly enhance the user experience for Jeep® owners by making removable components easier to install, align, and adjust. By ensuring a tight and customizable fit, Stellantis is reinforcing Jeep’s legacy of open-air freedom and adventure while improving the practicality of removable panels for everyday users.
Stellantis continues to innovate in vehicle design, focusing on user-friendly features that cater to customization and adaptability. While it remains to be seen when and how this patent will be applied to future Jeep models, it demonstrates Stellantis’s commitment to enhancing modularity and off-road capability.
Source: USPTO
