Abstract: The invention is directed to a product carrier, pallet or skid formed of substantially homogeneous molded polymeric/copolymeric synthetic plastic material of a one-piece construction. The carrier includes an upper surface above which projects one or more elongated shock-absorbing fins, ribs or equivalent structure for absorbing impact-forces through deformation upon the carrier and a relatively heavy product carried thereby being dropped or mishandled. One or more fasteners snugly secure the product against the shock-absorbing fins of the carrier and are also in freely sliding relationship thereto to accommodate product movement relative to the carrier upon deformation of the shock-absorbing fins/structure.

Abstract: A peripherally encapsulated unit is manufactured by molding a peripheral encapsulation of a predetermined internal peripheral contour and internal peripheral size from hot polymeric material in a mold. The mold is opened and a member is positioned in internal relationship to the hot molded peripheral encapsulation. Thereafter, the hot molded peripheral encapsulation shrinks as it cools to reduce its internal peripheral size thereby unitizing the peripheral encapsulation with a peripheral edge portion of the member to form a peripherally encapsulated unit, such as a cook top, range door, “touch” control panel, or the like.

Abstract: A cooktop, hob top or the like includes a cooktop, hob top panel having a peripheral edge portion, a frame bordering the same and a substantially one-piece homogeneous injection molded polymeric/copolymeric encapsulation securing the peripheral edge portion of the panel to the frame. The encapsulation includes integral fasteners adapted to be inserted into openings of a horizontal flange of a range, countertop or the like.