[stomachmonkey]

Originally Posted by deanp

No advice here, but surprised that there were design patents issued using a plurality of the trademarked three pointed star that Mercedes has used since the early 1900's.

There's evidence (prior art) of the star being used without the ring, and in plurality on a steering wheel in this collection of posters, ads and logo art:

https://emercedesbenz.com/autos/mercedes-benz/classic/the-true-story-behind-the-mercedes-benz-three-pointed-star/
'

Had the same exact thought.

Friend may be provoking a trademark infringement case here.

Beyond that, why would MB care about a 3rd party wheel design that is purely aesthetic and provides no technological advantage or benefit to them?

Not trying to sound harsh but there is virtually zero chance a MB consumer will not buy one because of the wheel design.

Put another way, unlikely friends product will increase sales.

Why would any manufacturer be interested in a royalty arrangement that will never impact the bottom line in a positive way?

If people like the wheel they'll buy it aftermarket.

Friend is barking up the wrong tree and potentially causing more trouble for himself than it's worth by calling attention to his designs.