It's been awhile since I looked at some of the posts on alt.coffee about it, but it seems he patented parts of the design of the popper used to roast. Though he didn't invent the popper himself, it has to do with the shape of the roaster and the angled vents etc etc.. It's really bizarre... I've often wondered if it's really that strong of a patent, most folks who attempt it crumble once the lawyer sends notice it seems. I use my Hearthware Precision roaster religiously and no Gell fella is gonna make me drink Charbuck$!