[Gooserider]

Ever compared Ford and Chevy V-8 engines? Think they were both invented by the same company?

Innovation even in the form of knockoff's is part of the competitive process - products are patentable, but not design concepts. If one person designs a product and patents it, then that product is protected, but not the idea of doing something in a way that is SIMILAR to the patented product. If there was no patent on the original design then that it is fair game for a direct copy.

Cathar invented the Whitewater concept, and the initial design, and that is good. Other companies take the concept of fins with a center impingement jet and exhausts on each side, and create variations on it - perhaps a different configuration on the jet, or changes in the fin spacing and number, or putting bumps on the fins or ...... So long as there is a significant difference in the two products then all is somewhat fair - the question of just HOW MUCH difference is required may be a matter for the courts, but as long as there is enough, then it is legitimate.

This may even lead to a technical improvement. I have no doubt about Cathar's genius, but I also don't think he has tried every possible manner of jet and fin configuration, let alone top design and material choice, and I see it as entirely possible that a knockoff could infact find a configuration or manufacturing method that improves on the original.

I would also point out that no company. no matter how ethically challenged, profits or gets rich strictly by ripping off the designs of a competitor. ALL companies can profit only by finding an answer to the key business question of "How can I help you today Mr. Customer?" that is better than the answer offered by a competitor. This might be done by offering a knockoff for less money, a better design, or a copy that can be gotten instead of just lusted after. In each case, the customer gets something he needs, and the market is guided towards the optimal use of resources of all types.

Given that in the WC market, there seems to be such a small amount of difference between the top level of blocks that even the honest testers have trouble reaching a concensus as to what is the best, it seems to me that there is little room for competition on technical merits, as one will probably be reasonably happy with any of the top tier blocks. So what is left? Price? Availability? 'Bling Bling' design? Build quality? All copper vs. mixed metals? Use of a design concept that is known to be effective?

So Mr block maker, why aren't you asking me "How can I serve you better?" instead of kvetching about people that are doing it?

Gooserider