Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus designed to improve the ability of a machine, particularly a laptop computer, to dissipate heat by separating the machine cooling fan discharge from a nearby impermeable surface. In its broadest form, the inventor now presents the apparatus comprised from a base member that is minimalist in design and that is able to be contracted in size in at least two (2) differing dimensions (e.g., length and width, etc.). More specifically, the inventor now presents the apparatus comprised from a base member constructed from a system of elongated horizontal supports integrated with a plurality of footing members, the component parts of the base member having integrated means whereby the whole base member may be contracted in size in at least two (2) differing dimensions (e.g., length and width, etc.).