Patents by Inventor Dennis R. Willis

Dennis R. Willis has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 5626251
    Abstract: A container lid is characterized by a tamper-evidencing tear-strip member having a tab that protrudes from a plane formed by adjacent portions of the lid. The tab preferably includes gripping rib members on opposing surfaces of the tab and is surrounded by a sufficient gap to permit the tab to be readily grasped for easier removal of the tear-strip member from the lid, prior to initial removal of the lid from the container. In container and lid embodiments that are substantially rectangular, the lid also preferably includes mating engagement structure between the lid and the container which is interrupted or not present at the corners of the lid. The tear-strip in this rectangular embodiment also preferably includes a widened portion at the corners, whereby the removal of the tear-strip results in a "scalloping" of the corners. These features on rectangular embodiments facilitate easier attachment and removal of the lid to and from the container, after the removal of the tear-strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1997
    Assignee: Ropak Corporation
    Inventors: Frano Luburic, Dennis R. Willis
  • Patent number: 5344041
    Abstract: A container bail incorporates securement means cooperative with retaining means on a container, said securement means having a head receivable in a receptor opening in the retaining means which is of totally different size and configuration from the receptor opening in the securement means which creates an interference fit materially reducing the likelihood of inadvertent dislodgement of the securement means from the retaining means. The bail also incorporates flexibility at critical points which augments the tendency of the retaining means to remain operatively associated with the securement means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1994
    Assignee: Ropak Corporation
    Inventors: Frano Luburic, Dennis R. Willis