Yes, Mercedes-Benz likely holds several patents for the design and technology incorporated into the W465 AMG Performance Steering Wheel, as the company typically patents innovative features and systems that contribute to the vehicle's performance, safety, and luxury. While specific patents may not always be publicly disclosed in detail, there are a few key areas where Mercedes-Benz could have filed patents related to this steering wheel:

1. Multi-Function Controls and Integration

• Button Layout and Functionality: Mercedes-Benz often patents the specific layout and functionality of the multi-function buttons on their steering wheels. These buttons can control systems like adaptive cruise control, driving modes, infotainment systems, and driver-assistance technologies. Such patents ensure that the controls are ergonomically placed for easy access while maintaining a sleek, integrated design.

2. Steering Wheel Haptic Feedback

• Vibration and Haptic Warnings: The integration of haptic feedback, such as vibrations for lane departure or collision warnings, could be patented. This technology enhances driver safety by providing tactile feedback through the steering wheel, alerting the driver to important changes in driving conditions.

3. Adjustable Grip Technology

• Customizable Steering Feel: Some AMG steering wheels feature adjustable grip technology that allows drivers to modify the feel and comfort of the wheel. If this system is based on innovative mechanisms that adjust the material or tension of the wheel, it could be patented to protect Mercedes-Benz's unique approach to steering wheel ergonomics.

4. Advanced Materials

• High-Tech Materials: The use of specific materials like carbon fiber, Alcantara, or advanced composites could be patented to ensure their durability, performance, and resistance to wear. These materials are often engineered to meet specific criteria such as lightweight, high strength, and long-term durability, which are vital for a performance steering wheel.

5. Integration with Vehicle Systems

• Steering Wheel Integration with ECU and Vehicle Systems: The ability of the steering wheel to interface with the vehicle’s ECU (Electronic Control Unit) and vehicle dynamics systems (such as traction control, stability control, suspension adjustments, etc.) may involve proprietary technologies that Mercedes-Benz has patented. These systems enable drivers to control vital vehicle functions seamlessly via the steering wheel.

6. LED Lighting Features

• LED Shift Lights and Indicators: The incorporation of LED lighting on the steering wheel to indicate shifting points or provide visual feedback for driving modes could be patented. This innovative design allows for dynamic performance alerts, helping the driver stay focused on performance metrics during high-speed driving.

7. Customizable Steering Wheel Functions

• User Profiles and Customization: The ability to personalize and reprogram the steering wheel's functions (e.g., button assignments, driving mode preferences) could be covered under patents related to user profile customization. This provides a tailored driving experience, allowing multiple users to save and recall specific settings.

8. Safety Features

• Airbag Deployment System: The airbag system embedded in the steering wheel, especially the integration of airbags with multi-stage deployments based on crash severity, is likely to be patented. Mercedes-Benz continually innovates to ensure that steering wheels are designed for maximum safety during a crash.

9. Off-Road and Performance Mode Integration

• Adaptive Steering for Off-Road Driving: For off-road driving, specific features in the steering wheel that interact with terrain-specific driving modes (such as sand, snow, or rocky terrain) could be patented. These systems adjust vehicle performance to suit the driving environment and could be integrated directly through the steering wheel’s controls.

10. Gyroscopic Sensors and Adaptive Feedback

• Gyroscopic Sensors for Performance Monitoring: The integration of gyroscopic sensors to monitor steering wheel angle and input precision may be patented. This would allow the vehicle to make real-time adjustments to handling and provide better performance feedback to the driver, especially during dynamic driving conditions.

11. Ergonomics and Adjustability Mechanisms

• Tilt, Reach, and Rotation Adjustments: The mechanism that allows for easy adjustments in tilt, reach, and rotation of the steering wheel (particularly in AMG models) could involve patented technology. These features help the driver find the most comfortable position, enhancing the driving experience during long trips or high-performance maneuvers.

Conclusion:

While exact patents for the W465 AMG Performance Steering Wheel may not be explicitly listed or disclosed in public sources, it is highly probable that Mercedes-Benz holds patents for several of the technologies and designs integrated into the steering wheel. These patents cover areas like ergonomics, performance control, safety features, integration with vehicle systems, and advanced materials, all of which contribute to the cutting-edge functionality and luxury that AMG is known for. If you are specifically interested in the patents themselves, it may be useful to look up official Mercedes-Benz patent filings or consult their technical resources.