Abstract: Microwaveable heat retentive receptacles comprising a volume for receiving a product, in heat exchange communication with a microwave absorbing material, wherein the microwave absorbing material preferably comprises polyesters. Pouches containing the microwave absorbing material are also provided which can be associated with containers to provide improved heat storage characteristics.

Abstract: A low profile beverage container holder having a base support for supporting the beverage container and a wall which extends around the base and thereby defines a cavity for receiving the beverage container. The holder is also provided with a wedging structure. In the preferred embodiment, the wedging structure comprises an annular rib disposed in the cavity and projecting upwards from the base support. Thus, when the beverage container is tipped, the annular rib contacts the concavity on the bottom surface of the beverage container and the container is thereby wedged between the annular rib and the low sidewall. A plurality of beverage containers which are adapted to be received within the beverage container holder are also disclosed.

Abstract: Microwaveable heat retentive receptacles comprising a volume for receiving a product, in heat exchange communication with a microwave absorbing material, wherein the microwave absorbing material preferably comprises monoglycerides, diglycerides, or mixtures thereof. Pouches containing the microwave absorbing material are also provided which can be associated with containers to provide improved heat storage characteristics.

Abstract: A system for supporting at least one article, comprising an article support member and a base support member for supporting a base member of the article support. The article support comprises a member comprising a first end including a base member projecting therefrom, and a second end including an article support portion capable of supporting at least one article. The base support member comprises a wall which defines a cavity for receiving a portion of the base member projecting from the first portion of the member. Further, the cavity is provided with a protrusion. Preferably, the base support member comprises a cupholder in an automotive vehicle.

Abstract: A vacuum insulated panel having high thermal insulating value and long vacuum life, and a method of making such a panel are disclosed. The panel is formed of peripherally welded metal wall members which define a cavity within which, in one embodiment, a compressed block of particulate material is disposed. The particulate material, in this embodiment, serves as a barrier to radiant thermal transmission through the panel, acts as a getter to maintain the vacuum in the panel, and supports the walls of the panel against collapse when the cavity is evacuated. The vacuum insulated panel can be covered with a polyurethane foam insulating material. According to a further embodiment of the invention, the filler within the cavity is a sandwich comprising a compressed layer of particulate material suspended between two layers of fiberglass.

Abstract: A low profile beverage container holder having a base support for supporting the beverage container and a wall which extends around the base and thereby defines a cavity for receiving the beverage container. The holder is also provided with a wedging structure. In the preferred embodiment, the wedging structure comprises an annular rib disposed in the cavity and projecting upwards from the base support. Thus, when the beverage container is tipped, the annular rib contacts the concavity on the bottom surface or the beverage container and the container is thereby wedged between the annular rib and the low sidewall. A plurality of beverage containers which are adapted to be received within the beverage container holder are also disclosed.