U.S. patent application number 12/154708 was filed with the patent office on 2009-12-03 for method of forming a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air.
This patent application is currently assigned to S. I. Incorporated, DBA "Serv-Ice". Invention is credited to Thomas R. Leske.
Application Number | 20090293434 12/154708 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41378042 |
Filed Date | 2009-12-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090293434 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Leske; Thomas R. |
December 3, 2009 |
Method of forming a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and
air
Abstract
A method of forming a pre-packaged container of ice and air is
disclosed. The method includes forming a first member and a second
member from a plastic material. The first and second members are
physically overlapped one upon the other to establish a
coterminuous outer periphery. A seal is formed about a portion of
the outer periphery to form a void area. The seal extends from
between about 50% to about 80% around the outer periphery and the
unsealed portion of the periphery forms an inlet to the void area.
Air is introduced through the inlet to create a cavity having a
preselected volume. Individual pieces of ice are inserted into the
cavity through the inlet. The method further includes sealing the
inlet to form a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air.
The air occupies at least about 50% of the volume of the
cavity.
Inventors: |
Leske; Thomas R.; (Oshkosh,
WI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WILHELM LAW SERVICE, S.C.
100 W LAWRENCE ST, THIRD FLOOR
APPLETON
WI
54911
US
|
Assignee: |
S. I. Incorporated, DBA
"Serv-Ice"
Oshkosh
WI
|
Family ID: |
41378042 |
Appl. No.: |
12/154708 |
Filed: |
May 27, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
53/455 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65B 11/50 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
53/455 |
International
Class: |
B65B 43/00 20060101
B65B043/00; B65B 5/00 20060101 B65B005/00 |
Claims
1. A method of forming an individualized pre-packaged, flexible
container of ice and air, comprising: a) forming a first member and
a second member, each of said first and second members being
constructed from a plastic material having a thickness of from
between about 0.5 millimeters to about 10 millimeters; b)
physically overlapping said first and second members to establish a
coterminuous outer periphery; c) forming a seal about a portion of
said coterminuous outer periphery to form a void area, said seal
extending from between about 50% to about 90% around said
coterminuous outer periphery, and said unsealed portion of said
coterminuous outer periphery forming an inlet to said void area; d)
introducing air through said inlet at atmospheric pressure to
create a cavity having a volume of less than about 25 cubic inches,
and said air is introduced at a temperature below 40.degree. F.; e)
inserting individual pieces of ice into said cavity through said
inlet, said individual pieces of ice having a weight of from
between about 0.1 ounces to about 5 ounces, and each of said
individual pieces of ice having a predetermined shape; and f)
sealing said inlet to form said individualized pre-packaged,
flexible container of ice and air, said air occupying at least
about 50% of said volume of said cavity, and said container, ice
and air having a combined weight of less than about 5 ounces.
2. The method of claim 1 further including introducing pressurized
air having a pressure ranging from between 0 to about 1 psi and at
a temperature of below 32.degree. F. through said inlet to create
said cavity.
3. The method of claim 2 wherein said pressurized air is introduced
at a pressure ranging from between about 0.1 psi to about 0.5
psi.
4. The method of claim 2 wherein said cavity has a volume ranging
from between about 5 cubic inches to about 15 cubic inches.
5. The method of claim 1 further comprising manipulating said first
and second members to distort said coterminuous outer periphery to
allow said air to pass through said inlet.
6. The method of claim 5 wherein said coterminuous outer periphery
has a first side and a second side and said first and second sides
are moved towards one another to form a void area therebetween
which said air can occupy.
7. The method of claim 1 further comprising introducing pressurized
air through said inlet to create said cavity, and said pressurized
air is at a temperature ranging from between about 10.degree. F. to
about 32.degree. F.
8. The method of claim 1 wherein said plastic material is
polyethylene having a thickness ranging from between about 2
millimeters to about 3 millimeters.
9. The method of claim 1 wherein said plastic material is
polypropylene having a thickness ranging from between about 2
millimeters to about 3 millimeters.
10. A method of forming an individualized pre-packaged, flexible
container of ice and air, comprising: a) forming a first member and
a second member, each of said first and second members being
constructed from a vapor-impermeable material having a thickness of
from between about 1 millimeter to about 5 millimeters; b)
physically overlapping said first and second members to establish a
coterminuous outer periphery; c) forming a seal about a portion of
said coterminuous outer periphery to form a void area, said seal
extending from between about 50% to about 80% around said
coterminuous outer periphery, and said unsealed portion of said
coterminuous outer periphery forming an inlet to said void area; d)
introducing air through said inlet at a pressure ranging from
between 0.1 psi to about 1 psi to create a cavity having a volume
of less than 20 cubic inches, and said air being introduced at a
temperature below 32.degree. F.; e) inserting individual pieces of
ice into said cavity through said inlet, said individual pieces of
ice having a weight of from between about 2 ounces to about 5
ounces, and each of said individual pieces of ice having a
predetermined shape; and f) sealing said inlet to form said
individualized pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air,
said air occupying at least about 50% of said volume of said
cavity, and said container, ice and air having a combined weight of
less than about 4 ounces.
11. The method of claim 10 further comprising forming a tear strip
in said first member to facilitate easy opening of said container,
said container having a first side, a second side aligned opposite
to said first side, a third side, and a fourth side aligned
opposite to said third side, said tear strip including a pair of
spaced apart weakened lines, said tear strip extending completely
across said first member from said first side to said second side,
and said tear strip having a finger tab which is integrally formed
therewith.
12. The method of claim 11 wherein said tear strip has a first end
which extends to said coterminuous outer periphery, and said tear
strip is formed from a material which is different from the
material from which said first member is formed.
13. The method of claim 10 further comprising forming a V-shaped
notch partially through said seal which facilitates opening said
container in order to remove said ice.
14. The method of claim 10 wherein said first member is folded upon
itself to form a U-shaped member with a pair of spaced apart
upstanding legs, each leg having an outer periphery, and a seal
extends about said outer periphery of said pair of upstanding legs
to form a cavity therein, and a single individual piece of ice is
positioned in said cavity.
15. The method of claim 14 wherein said pair of upstanding legs is
sealed together using heat and pressure, said folded portion
extends 25% around said outer periphery of said container, and said
seal extends around said remaining portion of said outer periphery
of said container.
16. A method of forming an individualized pre-packaged, flexible
container of ice and air, comprising: a) forming a first member and
a second member, each of said first and second members being
constructed from a liquid-impermeable material having a thickness
of from between about 2 millimeters to about 3 millimeters; b)
physically overlapping said first and second members to establish a
coterminuous outer periphery; c) forming a seal about at least a
portion of said coterminuous outer periphery to form a void area,
said seal extending from between about 55% to about 75% around said
coterminuous outer periphery, and said unsealed portion of said
coterminuous outer periphery forming an inlet to said void area; d)
introducing air through said inlet at a pressure ranging from
between about 0.1 psi to about 0.5 psi to create a cavity having a
volume of from between about 5 cubic inches to about 20 cubic
inches, said air being introduced at a temperature of between about
10.degree. F. to about 32.degree. F.; e) inserting multiple pieces
of ice into said cavity through said inlet, each of said multiple
pieces of ice having a weight of from between about 0.2 ounces to
about 1 ounce, and each of said multiple pieces of ice having a
dimension of less than about 1.5 inches; and f) sealing said inlet
to form said individualized pre-packaged, flexible container of ice
and air, said air occupying more than about 50% of said volume of
said cavity, and said container, ice and air having a combined
weight of less than about 3 ounces.
17. The method of claim 16 wherein said container is in the form of
a triangle having a first side, a second side and a third side,
said container having an outer periphery and a seal which extends
completely around said outer periphery, and said multiple pieces of
ice include less than six ice cubes, and each of said ice cubes
having a maximum dimension of less than about 1.25 inches.
18. The method of claim 17 wherein each of said first, second and
third sides has the same dimension, and said multiple pieces of ice
include less than five ice cubes, with each of said ice cubes
having a maximum dimension of less than about 1 inch.
19. The method of claim 16 wherein each of said first and second
members is formed from a polyethylene material having a thickness
ranging from between about 2 millimeters to about 3 millimeters,
and said air occupies from between about 55% to about 70% of said
volume of said cavity.
20. The method of claim 19 wherein said polyethylene material has
at least two layers and one of said layer is an insulating layer.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to a method of forming a
pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Today, there are various situations where ice is served to a
multitude of individuals in public venues. The primary commercial
venue focuses on situations where a vendor hand-delivers a
disposable paper or plastic glass or cup with ice to a customer.
The vendor then distributes or sells a liquid or fluid, such as a
bottle of water, a container or can of a beverage, such as a
carbonated soft drink or a non-carbonated drink such as a sports
drink, ice tea, juice, an alcoholic drink, a non-alcoholic drink, a
liquid mixer to which alcohol can be added, etc. In many of these
venues, the consumer does not have access to an ice machine. For
example, during a flight on a commercial airliner, a flight
attendant typically offers each passenger a beverage. Many such
drinks, especially soft drinks, are customarily served cold. Either
the beverage has been refrigerated and/or it is served with a glass
or cup filled with ice. When a passenger selects a particular
drink, the flight attendant will usually take a plastic cup and
fill it with several ice cubes and then pour the requested beverage
into the cup. The flight attendant will then hand the cup to the
passenger. Sometimes, the flight attendant will also give the
passenger the remainder of the bottle or can of beverage so that
the passenger can refill their cup at a later time. The most
time-consuming part of this entire process is getting the ice out
of a relatively large plastic bag, usually a ten pound bag of ice,
and depositing several ice cubes into each cup. Furthermore, the
large plastic bag of ice is usually torn open and does not include
a resealable feature. Therefore, there is no easy way to reseal the
partially used bag of ice. In addition, the ice in the large open
bag can become contaminated before, during or after transfer of
some of the ice cubes to individual cups. This presents a
significant health risk to the remaining passengers who may receive
ice from the large contaminated bag of ice. Lastly, any unused ice
in the large open bag usually has to be disposed of since it is not
convenient to save it for a subsequent flight which may take off
several hours later.
[0003] There are also situations where one or more persons may
desire to distribute a small number of liquid drinks to a specific
group where only a small quantity of ice is needed. For example, at
a tailgate party before a professional football game, a person or a
couple may host a tailgate party with a small number of their
friends. A cooler is usually present filled with ice cubes and a
variety of liquid drinks, such as bottled water, soft drinks, beer,
wine, wine coolers, etc. If a guest wishes to add ice to his or her
glass, mug or cup prior to adding a beverage, then a separate
container or bag of ice is needed since the ice cubes stored in the
cooler cannot be used for this purpose. Typically, the ice cubes
stored in the cooler have become contaminated by the beverage
containers placed in it as well as by other people reaching their
hands into the cooler to retrieve a beverage.
[0004] Currently, applicant is not aware of any small, individual
pouches or bags of ice that are commercially available for
individual use and consumption. Applicant is also unaware of a
method of serving a drink to a person utilizing a pre-packaged,
flexible container of ice and air. If such a product was
commercially available, it would satisfy a present need and would
allow ice to be distributed in a safer, healthier and a more
efficient manner. Should ice in the form of ice cubes, ice chunks,
ice pieces, ice nuggets, ice blocks, ice flakes, ice pebbles,
crushed ice, shaved ice, ice particles, ice lumps, etc. be
available in individual size, pre-packaged flexible containers, one
could provide a limited quantity of ice for a beverage in a cost
effective, efficient and timely manner.
[0005] Now a method of forming a pre-packaged, flexible container
of ice and air has been invented.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] Briefly, this invention relates to a method of forming a
pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air. The method
includes the steps of forming a first member and a second member.
Each of the first and second members is constructed from a plastic
material having a thickness of less than about 5 millimeters. The
first and second members are physically overlapped one upon the
other to establish a coterminuous outer periphery. A seal is formed
about a portion of the coterminuous outer periphery to form a void
area. The seal extends from between about 50% to about 90% around
the coterminuous outer periphery and the unsealed portion of the
coterminuous outer periphery forming an inlet to the void area. Air
is introduced through the inlet to create a cavity having a
preselected volume. Individual pieces of ice are inserted into the
cavity through the inlet. The individual pieces of ice have a
combined weight of less than about 5 ounces and the individual
pieces of ice have a predetermined shape. The method further
includes sealing the inlet to form a pre-packaged, flexible
container of ice and air. The air occupies at least about 50% of
the volume of the cavity.
[0007] In another embodiment, the method of forming a pre-packaged,
flexible container of ice and air includes the steps of forming a
first member and a second member. Each of the first and second
members is constructed from a vapor-impermeable material having a
thickness of less than about 5 millimeters. The first and second
members are physically overlapped one upon the other to establish a
coterminuous outer periphery. A seal is formed about a portion of
the coterminuous outer periphery to form a void area. The seal
extends from between about 50% to about 80% around the coterminuous
outer periphery and the unsealed portion of the coterminuous outer
periphery forms an inlet to the void area. Air is introduced
through the inlet to create a cavity having a preselected volume.
Individual pieces of ice are inserted into the cavity through the
inlet. The individual pieces of ice have a combined weight of less
than about 4 ounces and each of the individual pieces of ice have a
predetermined shape. The method further includes sealing the inlet
to form a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air. The air
occupies at least about 50% of the volume of the cavity.
[0008] In a third embodiment, the method of forming a pre-packaged,
flexible container of ice and air includes the steps of forming a
first member and a second member. Each of the first and second
members is constructed from a liquid-impermeable material having a
thickness of less than about 2 millimeters. The first and second
members are physically overlapped one upon the other to establish a
coterminuous outer periphery. A seal is formed about at least a
portion of the coterminuous outer periphery to form a void area.
The seal extends from between about 55% to about 75% around the
coterminuous outer periphery and the unsealed portion of the
coterminuous outer periphery forms an inlet to the void area. Air
is introduced through the inlet to create a cavity having a
preselected volume. Multiple pieces of ice are inserted into the
cavity through the inlet. The multiple pieces of ice have a
combined weight of less than about 5 ounces and each of the
multiple pieces of ice has a dimension of less than about 1.5
inches.
[0009] The method further includes sealing the inlet to form a
pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air. The air occupies
more than about 50% of the volume of the cavity.
[0010] The general object of this invention is to provide a method
of forming a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air. A
more specific object of this invention is to provide a method of
forming an individual, pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and
air which has a weight of less than about 5 ounces.
[0011] Another object of this invention is to provide a method of
forming a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air that has
a tear strip to facilitate easy opening of the container.
[0012] A further object of this invention is to provide a method of
forming a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air which is
sufficient to cool one individual glass or cup of beverage.
[0013] Still another object of this invention is to provide a
method of forming a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air
wherein the flexible container is easy to distribute in an
efficient manner.
[0014] Still further, an object of this invention is to provide a
method of forming a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air
wherein the flexible container is less susceptible to contamination
once the container is opened since the amount of ice is sufficient
for only a single drink.
[0015] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will
become more apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the
following description and the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of first and second members
used to construct a flexible container capable of holding ice and
air.
[0017] FIG. 2 is a front view of a flexible container for holding
ice and air formed by sealing the first and second members, shown
in FIG. 1, together.
[0018] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the container of ice and
air shown in FIG. 2 taken along line 3-3 and depicting a cavity
having a volume with multiple ice cubes enclosed therein and air
occupying at least about 50% of the volume.
[0019] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the container of ice and
air shown in FIG. 2 taken along line 4-4 and depicting a cavity
having a volume with multiple ice cubes enclosed therein and air
occupying at least about 50% of the volume.
[0020] FIG. 5 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of a
container of ice and air having a tear strip extending horizontally
across the container.
[0021] FIG. 6 is a front view of a rectangular first member.
[0022] FIG. 7 is a side view of the first member shown in FIG. 6
after it has been folded along its transverse central axis Y-Y.
[0023] FIG. 8 is a front view of container formed from the folded
first member shown in FIG. 7 after it has been sealed along the
opposite side edges and along a pair of second ends.
[0024] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the container shown in
FIG. 8 taken along line 9-9 and depicting a cavity having a volume
with a single ice cube enclosed therein and air occupying more than
50% of the volume.
[0025] FIG. 10 is a front view of a container having a triangular
shape with a seal extending completely about its outer
periphery.
[0026] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the container of ice
and air shown in FIG. 10 taken along line 11-11 and depicting a
cavity having a volume with a single ice cube enclosed therein and
air occupying at least about 50% of the volume.
[0027] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of a method of forming a
pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air.
[0028] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram of an alternative method of
forming a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air.
[0029] FIG. 14 is a flow diagram of still another method of forming
a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air.
[0030] FIG. 15 is a flow diagram of a method of serving a drink to
a person.
[0031] FIG. 16 is a side view of a drinking vessel.
[0032] FIG. 17 is an exploded, cross-sectional view of another
embodiment of a drinking vessel having a removable lid and a straw
which is inserted through an opening formed in the lid.
[0033] FIG. 18 is a flow diagram of an alternative method of
serving a drink to a person.
[0034] FIG. 19 is a flow diagram of still another method of serving
a drink to a person.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0035] Referring to FIGS. 1-4, a first member 10 and a second
member 12 are shown which can be used to construct an
individualized, pre-packaged flexible container 14, see FIG. 3. The
flexible container 14 is capable of holding and enclosing a small
quantity of ice 16 and air 18. By "flexible" it is meant a
container formed from a pliable material that is capable of being
bent or flexed. The flexible container 14 is not rigid. For
example, the flexible container 14 can be a bag, a pouch, a sack,
etc. The flexible container 14 is capable of enclosing both ice 16
and air 18 simultaneously. By "ice" it is meant water frozen solid,
a mass of frozen water. By "air" it is meant a colorless, odorless,
gaseous mixture, mainly nitrogen (approximately 78%) and oxygen
(approximate 21%) with lesser amounts of other gases.
[0036] The temperature of the ice 16 should be about 32.degree.
Fahrenheit (F) or lower. By "Fahrenheit" it is meant a temperature
scale that registers the freezing point of water as 32.degree. F.
and the boiling point as 212.degree. F. at one atmosphere of
pressure. The air 18 which surrounds the ice 16 can vary in
temperature depending upon the time and conditions at which the
flexible container 14 is stored after being filled with ice 16 and
air 18. The air 18 can be at a temperature above, equal to or below
32.degree. F. The air 18 can be at a temperature above 32.degree.
F. for a certain period of time before the ice 16 starts to melt.
Normally, the air 18 will increase in temperature before the ice 16
starts to melt. Should the ice 16 completely melt into water, it is
possible to refreeze the flexible container 14 such that the water
contained therein will be transformed back into ice 16. However, in
this situation, the ice 16 will be a single individual piece.
[0037] The first member 10 has a longitudinal central axis X-X, a
transverse central axis Y-Y, and a vertical central axis Z-Z. The
first member 10 also has a thickness t measured along the vertical
central axis Z-Z. The second member 12 has a longitudinal central
axis X.sub.1-X.sub.1, a transverse central axis Y.sub.1-Y.sub.1,
and a vertical central axis Z.sub.1-Z.sub.1. The second member 12
also has a thickness t.sub.1 measured along the vertical central
axis Z.sub.1-Z.sub.1.
[0038] The first member 10 can be formed from a material that is
identical, similar to or different from the material used to form
the second member 12. Desirably, the first and second members, 10
and 12 respectively, are formed from the same material. The first
and second members, 10 and 12 respectively, can be formed from
various materials, including but not limited to: plastics,
thermoplastics, foil, aluminum foil, cloth, a polyolefin such as
polyethylene or polypropylene or a combination thereof. The
material can be a woven material, a non-woven material, an extruded
material, a thermoformed material, etc. The material can be
transparent, semi-transparent, opaque or colored to a desired hue.
Desirably, the first and second members, 10 and 12 respectively,
are formed from a plastic material that is transparent or
semi-transparent. By "transparent" it is meant a material that is
capable of transmitting light so that an object or image can be
seen as if there were no intervening material. By
"semi-transparent" it is meant a material that is capable of
transmitting some light so that at least the outline of an object
or image can be seen. The first and second members, 10 and 12
respectively, can also be formed from a composite material having
two or more layers. One of the layers of the composite can be a
vapor barrier layer to prevent the passage of a vapor, a
liquid-impermeable layer to prevent the passage of a liquid or
fluid, an insulating layer to assist in maintaining the temperature
within the container 14, etc. By "liquid" it is meant a state of
matter characterized by a readiness to flow, little or no tendency
to disperse, and relatively high incompressibility. By "fluid" it
is meant a continuous amorphous substance whose molecules move
freely past one another and that assumes the shape of its
container.
[0039] Referring to FIG. 1, each of the first and second members,
10 and 12 respectively, is depicted as being square in
configuration. However, the first and second members, 10 and 12
respectively, can be shaped to any geometrical configuration one
desires to utilize. For example, each of the first and second
members, 10 and 12 respectively, can be shaped as a rectangle, a
triangle, a polygon, etc. The first member 10 has a length l and a
width w. The length l dimension can be less than, equal to or be
greater than the w dimension. The dimension of the length l and the
dimension of the width w should each be equal to or less than about
5 inches. Desirably, the dimension of the length l and the
dimension of the width w should each be equal to or less than about
4 inches. More desirably, the dimension of the length l and the
dimension of the width w should each be equal to or less than about
3 inches.
[0040] The second member 12 has a length l.sub.1 and a width
w.sub.1. The dimension of the length l.sub.1 and the dimension of
the width w.sub.1 should each be equal to or less than about 5
inches. Desirably, the dimension of the length l.sub.1 and the
dimension of the width w.sub.1 should each be equal to or less than
about 4 inches. More desirably, the dimension of the length l.sub.1
and the dimension of the width w.sub.1 should each be equal to or
less than about 3 inches. Since each of the first and second
members, 10 and 12 are each a square, l=w and l.sub.1=w.sub.1.
Furthermore, since the first and second members, 10 and 12
respectively, are of equal size, l=l.sub.1=w=w.sub.1. Desirably,
each of the first and second members, 10 and 12 respectively, has
approximately the same size and geometrical configuration. In FIG.
1, each of the first and second members, 10 and 12 respectively,
has approximately the same length l and l.sub.1 and width w and
w.sub.1 dimensions. It should be understood that the first and
second members, 10 and 12 can be of different sizes and shapes, if
desired. However, a more aesthetically pleasing container 14 can be
constructed when the first and second members, 10 and 12
respectively, are of approximately the same size and shape.
[0041] The first member 10 has a thickness t and the second member
12 has a thickness t.sub.1. The thickness t can be greater than,
equal to or be less than the thickness t.sub.1. Desirably, the
thickness t of the first member 10 is equal to the thickness
t.sub.1 of the second member 12. The thicknesses t and t.sub.1 can
vary in dimension. The thicknesses t and t.sub.1 can range from
between about 0.5 millimeter to about 10 millimeters. Desirably,
the thicknesses t and t.sub.1 can range from between about 1
millimeter to about 5 millimeters. More desirably, the thicknesses
t and t.sub.1 can range from between about 1.5 millimeters to about
4 millimeters. Even more desirably, the thicknesses t and t.sub.1
can range from between about 2 millimeters to about 3 millimeters.
Most desirably, the thicknesses t and t.sub.1 are less than about 3
millimeters.
[0042] Still referring to FIGS. 1-4, the first member 10 has an
outer periphery 20 and the second member 12 has an outer periphery
22, see FIG. 1. By "periphery" it is meant a line that forms the
boundary of an area; a perimeter. The first and second members, 10
and 12 respectively, are overlapped or aligned so that the flexible
container 14 has a coterminuous outer periphery 24, see FIG. 2. By
"coterminuous" it is meant sharing a boundary; contiguous,
contained in the same boundary. The flexible container 14 further
has a cavity 26 enclosed within the outer periphery 24, see FIG. 3.
By "cavity" it is meant a hollow area within a body. The cavity 26
has a volume of less than about 25 cubic inches so as to provide an
individual serving of ice 16 to a person. Desirably, the cavity 26
has a volume is less than about 20 cubic inches. More desirably,
the cavity 26 has a volume of between about 5 cubic inches to about
20 cubic inches. Even more desirably, the cavity 26 has a volume of
less than about 19 cubic inches. By "volume" it is meant the amount
of space occupied by a three-dimensional object or region of space;
the capacity of such a region or of a specified container.
[0043] Referring again to FIGS. 2-4, the flexible container 14 has
a longitudinal central axis X.sub.2-X.sub.2, a transverse central
axis Y.sub.2-Y.sub.2 and a vertical central axis Z.sub.2-Z.sub.2,
see FIG. 3. The flexible container 14 also has a seal 28 formed
about the outer periphery 24. Desirably, the seal 28 extends
completely around the outer periphery 24. Stated another way, the
seal 28 extends 360 degrees about the outer periphery 24. The seal
28 can be formed inside of the outer periphery 24 and be spaced
apart from the outer periphery 24 or it can be formed inside of the
outer periphery 24 and extend to the outer periphery 24. The seal
28 functions to bond the first member 10 to the second member 12.
The seal 28 can be a hermetical seal. By "hermetical" it is meant
completely sealed against the escape or entry of air, impervious to
outside interference or influence. The seal 28 completely encloses
the cavity 26 once it is formed. The seal 28 can be formed by
various means, including but not limited to using: heat, pressure,
heat and pressure, ultrasonic energy, or other means known to those
skilled in the art. The seal 28 can also be formed by applying or
depositing an adhesive, glue, a co-adhesive, etc. between the first
and second members, 10 and 12 respectively.
[0044] Before the cavity 26 is completely enclosed by the seal 28,
one or more pieces of the ice 16 and the air 18 is inserted into
the cavity 26. Various methods of inserting the ice 16 into a
partially formed cavity 26 can be employed. For example, the cavity
26 can be partially sealed by the seal 28 such that from about 50%
to about 90% of the cavity 26 is enclosed by the seal 28.
Desirably, about 50% to about 80% the cavity 26 is initially sealed
by the seal 28. More desirably, about 50% to about 75% the cavity
26 is initially sealed by the seal 28. Even more desirably, about
55% to about 75% the cavity 26 is initially sealed by the seal
28.
[0045] The ice 16 can be in the form of a single, individual piece
of ice 16 or it can consist of two or more individual pieces.
Desirably, multiple individual pieces of ice 16 will be present.
The ice 16 can be in various shapes and sizes. For example, the ice
16 can be in the form of ice cubes, ice chunks, ice nuggets, small
ice blocks, ice pebbles, ice particles, ice lumps, ice flakes,
briquettes, crushed ice, shaved ice, etc.
[0046] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the ice 16 is depicted as being
in the form of several ice cubes. Each ice cube has a maximum
dimension of less than about 1.5 inches. Each ice cube is about 1
inch by about 1 inch by about 1.25 inches in dimension.
Alternatively, each ice cube can have a maximum dimension of less
than about 1 inch. Desirably, each ice cube has a maximum dimension
of less than about 0.9 inches.
[0047] The shape of the ice 16 can vary. The ice 16 can be
constructed as a 3-dimensional ice cube having a height, a width
and a length. However, an ice cube can have almost any desired
geometrical shape or configuration including but not limited to a
sphere, a cylindrical, a square cube, a rectangular cube, a polygon
shaped cube, etc. The overall shape of any of the ice cubes can be
regular or irregular. In FIG. 3, the ice 16 is depicted as being
five individual ice cubes. In FIG. 4, the ice 16 is depicted as
being four individual ice cubes.
[0048] It should be understood that the ice 16 can be one or more
individual pieces, such as one or more ice cubes, ice chunks, ice
nuggets, ice lumps, etc. Alternatively, the ice 16 can be in the
form of a plurality of ice pebbles or ice flakes. Still further,
the ice 16 can consist of a large quantity of shaved or crushed
ice.
[0049] When the ice 16 is shaped as a single ice piece, it can have
a weight ranging from between about 0.1 ounces to about 5 ounces.
Desirably, a single piece of ice 16 can vary in weight from between
about 0.2 ounces to about 1 ounce. More desirably, a single piece
of ice 16 can vary in weight from between about 0.35 ounces to
about 0.45 ounces. Since two or more pieces of ice 16 can be housed
in the cavity 26, the total weight of the ice 16 can range from
between about 0.1 ounces to about 5 ounces. Desirably, the total
weight of the ice 16 can range from between about 2 ounces to about
5 ounces. More desirably, the total weight of the ice 16 can range
from between about 2.5 ounces to about 5 ounces. Even more
desirably, the total weight of the ice 16 can range from between
about 3 ounces to about 5 ounces.
[0050] Alternatively, one can insert water into the cavity 26 and
the cavity 26 can be sealed. The water is then frozen into ice 16.
The ice 16 can be broken or chopped into smaller pieces.
[0051] Still referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the air 18 occupies at
least about 50% of the volume of the cavity 26. Desirably, the air
18 occupies more than 50% of the volume of the cavity 26. More
desirably, the air occupies from between about 55% to about 75% of
the volume of the cavity 26. Even more desirably, the air occupies
from between about 55% to about 70% of the volume of the cavity 26.
Still more desirably, the air occupies from between about 55% to
about 65% of the volume of the cavity 26. Most desirably, the air
occupies from between about 55% to about 60% of the volume of the
cavity 26.
[0052] The air 18 can be inserted into the cavity 26 before, during
or after the ice 16 is inserted into the cavity 26. The air 18
should be introduced into the cavity 26 before the seal 28
completely seals the cavity 26. For example, the air 18 can be
inserted into the cavity 26 simultaneously or sequentially with the
introduction of the ice 16 while the seal 28 encloses from between
about 50% to about 90% of the cavity 26. The air 18 can be
introduced at atmospheric pressure or at a pressure above
atmospheric pressure. By "atmospheric pressure" it is meant a unit
of pressure equal to the air pressure at sea level, approximately
equal to 1.01325.times.10.sup.5 Pascal's. The air 18 can be
introduced into the cavity 26 at or above atmospheric pressure.
Desirably, the air 18 is introduced into the cavity 26 at a
pressure ranging from between 0 pounds per square inch (psi) to
about 1 psi. More desirably, the air 18 is introduced into the
cavity 26 at a pressure ranging from between about 0.1 psi to about
0.5 psi. Even more desirably, the air 18 is introduced into the
cavity 26 at a pressure of less than about 0.5 psi.
[0053] The air 18 can be below, at or be above room temperature.
Desirably, the air 18 that is introduced into the cavity 26 is at
or below 40.degree. F. More desirably, the air 18 that is
introduced into the cavity 26 is at or below 32.degree. F. Even
more desirably, the air 18 that is introduced into the cavity 26
ranges from between about 10.degree. F. and about 32.degree. F.
[0054] The pre-packaged, flexible container 14, the ice 16 and the
air 18 should have a combined weight of less than about 5 ounces.
This weight includes the weight of the first and second members, 10
and 12 respectively, any additional material used to form the seal
28, the weight of the ice 16 and the air 18, as well as any label
or printing added to the flexible container 14. Desirably, the
pre-packaged, flexible container 14, the ice 16 and the air 18 has
a combined weight of from between about 1 ounce to about 5 ounces.
More desirably, the pre-packaged, flexible container 14, the ice 16
and the air 18 has a combined weight of less than about 4 ounces.
Even more desirably, the pre-packaged, flexible container 14, the
ice 16 and the air 18 has a combined weight of less than about 3.5
ounces. Most desirably, the pre-packaged, flexible container 14,
the ice 16 and the air 18 has a combined weight of at least about 3
ounces.
[0055] The reason the flexible container 14, the ice 16 and the air
18 has a predetermined combined weight is to allow it to function
as a single, individual serving of ice for one drink. The amount of
ice 16 in the flexible container 14 can vary depending upon the
physical size of the glass or cup it is to placed or dispense into.
For example, the glass or cup can be sized to hold from between
about 4 ounces to about 24 ounces of fluid. Most likely, the glass
or cup will hold 4, 8, 12 or 16 ounce of fluid. By restricting the
flexible container 14, the ice 16 and the air 18 to a certain
combined weight, one can be assured that the ice 16 contained
therein has a very low probability of becoming contaminated once
the flexible container 14 is opened. In addition, all of the ice 16
enclosed in the flexible container 14 can be easily dispensed and
will fit within a glass or cup designed to hold a predetermined
amount of a fluid. The flexible container 14 can be sized to hold
sufficient ice 16 for a 4-16 ounce drink. By "drink" it is meant
any one of various liquids or fluids that a human or animal can
safely consume, including but not limited to: water, carbonated
water, a carbonated drink such as a soda or pop, a non-carbonated
drink such as a juice, tea, coffee, a non-alcoholic drink, and an
alcoholic drink such as beer, wine, wine coolers, whiskey, brandy,
vodka, liqueur, etc. Certain liquid medicines, for example a cough
syrup, will also fit within the definition of a drink.
[0056] Referring now to FIG. 5, an alternative pre-packaged,
flexible container 14' is shown. The flexible container 14' is
similar to the flexible container 14, shown in FIGS. 1-4, except
that it includes a tear strip 30. The flexible container 14' has a
longitudinal central axis X.sub.3-X.sub.3 and a transverse central
axis Y.sub.3-Y.sub.3. The flexible container 14' also has a length
l.sub.3 and a width w.sub.3. The tear strip 30 facilitates opening
the container 14' so that the ice 16 can be easily removed. The
flexible container 14' is formed from a first member 10 and a
second member 12 (not shown). The flexible container 14' is square
in configuration having a first side 32, a second side 34 aligned
opposite to the first side 32, a third side 36 aligned
perpendicular to the first side 32, and a fourth side 38 aligned
opposite to the third side 36. Desirably, each of the sides 32, 34,
36 and 38 has a dimension equal to or of less than about 5 inches.
More desirably, each of the sides 32, 34, 36 and 38 has a dimension
equal to or of less than about 4 inches. Even more desirable, at
least two of the sides 32 and 34, or 36 and 38, have a dimension
equal to or of less than about 3 inches.
[0057] The tear strip 30 can have various configurations and can be
constructed out of various materials. For example, the tear strip
30 can be formed from the same material from which the first member
10 is formed or it can be formed from a different material. As
depicted, the tear strip 30 includes a separate strip of material
that extends completely across the first member 10 from the first
side 32 to the second side 34. The tear strip 30 also includes a
finger tab 40 which is integral with the tear strip 30. The finger
tab 40 extends outward beyond the second side 34. The finger tab 40
functions to permit a person to grasp the finger tab 40 between his
or her thumb and forefinger and pull the tear strip 30 back and
away from the second side 34 of the first member 10. In so doing,
the tear strip 30 will separate from the first member 10 and cause
an opening to be formed in the flexible container 14'.
[0058] The tear strip 30 can be positioned anywhere along the
length l.sub.3 of the first side 32. However, it has been found
that by placing the tear strip 30 closer to one end of the length
l.sub.3, for example, near the third side 38, that it very easy to
dispense or remove the ice 16 from the flexible container 14' once
the tear strip 30 is torn open. As indicated in FIG. 5, the tear
strip 30 is spaced a distance d away from the third side 38. The
distance d should be 1 inch or less as measured from the third side
38. Desirably, the distance d is equal to or less than about 0.5
inches as measured from the third side 38. Even more desirably, the
distance d is equal to or less than about 0.4 inches as measured
from the third side 38. Most desirably, the distance d is equal to
or less than about 0.25 inches as measured from the third side
38.
[0059] The tear strip 30 can be aligned parallel to the third side
36 or be formed at an angle thereto. In addition, the tear strip 30
can be a linear line or a non-linear line. Furthermore, the tear
strip 30 could be an arcuate or curved line, or have a desired
geometrical shape, such as a sinusoidal wave, a zigzag shape,
etc.
[0060] It should be understood that even though the tear strip 30
has been described as being formed in the first member 10, it could
alternatively be formed in the second member 12, or be formed in
both of the first and second members, 10 and 12 respectively. It
should also be understood that the tear strip 30 can vary in
construction and the way it is applied to the flexible container
14'. In FIG. 5, the tear strip 30 includes a pair of weakened lines
42 and 44 formed in the first member 10. The pair of weakened lines
42 and 44 is aligned parallel to one another and is separated by a
distance d.sub.1. The distance d.sub.1 of the tear strip 30 can
vary but typically is equal to or less than about 0.125 inches.
Desirably, the distance d.sub.1 of the tear strip 30 is equal to or
less than about 0.1 inches. More desirably, the distance d.sub.1 of
the tear strip 30 is equal to or less than about 0.05 inches.
[0061] It should further be understood that once the tear strip 30
is completely removed from the opened flexible container 14', that
it should be properly discarded in a trash receptacle.
Alternatively, it is possible to construct the tear strip 30 such
that one end, for example, the end located adjacent to the first
side 32, does not separate from the first member 10 and therefore
stays attached or connected to the flexible container 14'. This
eliminates the need to separately dispose of the tear strip 30.
[0062] Referring now to FIG. 6, a first member 46 is shown having a
rectangular configuration. The first member 46 has a longitudinal
central axis X.sub.4-X.sub.4 and a transverse central axis
Y.sub.4-Y.sub.4. The first member 46 has a first end 48, a second
oppositely aligned end 50, a first side 52 and an oppositely
aligned side 54. The first member 46 also has a length l.sub.4, and
a width w.sub.4. The length l.sub.4 can vary in dimension but
desirably is equal to or less than about 12 inches. Desirably, the
length l.sub.4 is less than about 11 inches. More desirably, the
length l.sub.4 is less than about 10 inches. The width w.sub.4 can
also vary in dimension but is equal to or less than about 5 inches
in dimension. Desirably, the width w.sub.4 is less than about 4
inches. More desirably, the width w.sub.4 is less than about 3
inches. The first member 46 can be made from any of the materials
described above for constructing the first and/or second members,
10 and 12 respectively.
[0063] Referring to FIG. 7, the first member 46 is folded in half
about its transverse central axis Y.sub.4-Y.sub.4 to form a
U-shaped member 56 having a first folded end 58 and a pair of
second ends 48 and 50. The U-shaped member 56 has a pair of spaced
apart, upstanding legs 60 and 62. Each upstanding leg 60 and 62 has
a length l.sub.5 and a thickness t.sub.4. The length l.sub.5 can be
equal to or be less than about 5 inches. Desirably, the length
l.sub.5 is equal to or less than about 4 inches. More desirable,
the length l.sub.5 is equal to or less than about 3 inches. The
thickness t.sub.4 of each of the upstanding legs 60 and 62 can be
equal to or be less than about 10 mm. Desirably, the thickness
t.sub.4 is equal to or less than about 5 mm. More desirably, the
thickness t.sub.4 can be equal to or less than about 4 mm. Even
more desirably, the thickness t.sub.4 is equal to or less than
about 3 mm.
[0064] Referring now to FIGS. 8-9, the folded U-shaped member 56
can be formed into still another embodiment of a pre-packaged,
flexible container 14''. The flexible container 14'' is designed to
hold both the ice 16 and the air 18. The flexible container 14''
has a pair of sides 52 and 54 and an outer periphery 64. A seal 66
is formed about at least a portion of the outer periphery 64 and
cooperates with the first folded end 58 to completely enclose a
cavity 68 therein, see FIG. 9. In FIG. 9, the seal 66 extends about
75% around the cavity 68 and the first folded end 58 forms the
remaining 25% of the outer periphery 64. The cavity 68 has a volume
of less than about 20 cubic inches so that an individual serving of
the ice 16 can be provided to a person. Desirably, the cavity 68
has a volume of from between about 5 cubic inches to about 20 cubic
inches. More desirably, the cavity 68 has a volume of less than
about 19 cubic inches. Even more desirably, the cavity 68 has a
volume of less than about 18 cubic inches.
[0065] The cavity 68 contains both the ice 16 and the air 18. The
ice 16 can be in the form of a single individual piece, such as an
ice cube, or be multiple pieces of ice. The air 18 occupies at
least about 50% of the volume of the cavity 68. Desirably, the air
18 occupies more than 50% of the volume of the cavity 68 as was
explained above with reference to the flexible container 14. More
desirably, the air occupies from between about 55% to about 75% of
the volume of the cavity 68. The flexible container 14'', the ice
16 and the air 18 have a combined weight of about 5 ounces or less.
Desirably, the flexible container 14'', the ice 16 and the air 18
have a combined weight of less than about 4 ounces. More desirably,
the flexible container 14'', the ice 16 and the air 18 have a
combined of less than about 3 ounces.
[0066] Still referring to FIG. 8, a notch 70 is formed partially
through the seal 66 at the side 54 to facilitate opening the
flexible container 14''. The notch 70 is depicted as having a
V-shape although it could be constructed to have almost any desired
shape. For example, the notch 70 could have any desired geometrical
shape, such as a U, a rectangle, a semi-circle, etc. Furthermore,
the notch 70 could alternatively be formed in the side 52.
[0067] Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 11, still another embodiment
of a pre-packaged, flexible container 72 is depicted. The
individual, flexible container 72 is in the form of a triangle
having a longitudinal central axis X.sub.5-X.sub.5, a transverse
central axis Y.sub.5-Y.sub.5 and a vertical central axis
Z.sub.5-Z.sub.5, see FIG. 11. The flexible container 72 is
constructed from a first member 10' and a second member 12', see
FIG. 11. The flexible container 72 also has a first side 74, a
second side 76 and a third side 78. Each of the three sides 74, 76
and 78 are aligned at an acute angle between two adjacent sides to
form a triangular configuration. Each of the sides 74, 76 and 78
can have the same dimension or one or more of the sides 74, 76 and
78 can vary in dimension. Desirably, each of the three sides 74, 76
and 78 can have a dimension of about 5 inches or less. More
desirably, each of the three sides 74, 76 and 78 can have a
dimension of about 4.5 inches or less. Even more desirably, at
least two of the three sides 74, 76 and 78 have a dimension of less
than about 4.5 inches.
[0068] The flexible container 72 also has an outer periphery 80 and
a seal 82 formed about the outer periphery 80. The seal 82 secures
the first member 10' to the second member 12'. Desirably, the seal
82 extends completely around the outer periphery 80. Stated another
way, the seal 82 extends 360 degrees about the outer periphery 80.
The seal 82 can be formed inside of the outer periphery 80 and be
spaced apart from the outer periphery 80 or it can be formed inside
of the outer periphery 80 and extend to the outer periphery 80. The
seal 82 can be a hermetical seal. The seal 82 completely encloses a
cavity 26', see FIG. 11, once it is formed. The seal 82 can be
formed by various means, including but not limited to: using heat,
pressure, heat and pressure, ultrasonic energy or any other method
known to those skilled in the art. The seal 82 can also be formed
by applying or depositing an adhesive, glue, a co-adhesive, etc.
between the first and second members, 10' and 12' respectively.
[0069] The ice 16 and air 18 can be introduced or inserted into the
cavity 26' in a similar fashion as was described above with
reference to cavity 26. In FIG. 11, the ice 16 is depicted as a
single ice cube. The single ice cube can have a maximum dimension
of about 2 inches or less and a minimum dimension of greater than
0.25 inches. Desirably, multiple pieces of ice 16, each in the form
of an ice cube, are present in the cavity 26'.
Method of Forming a Pre-Packaged, Flexible Container of Ice and
Air
[0070] Three alternative methods of forming a pre-packaged,
flexible container 14, 14', 14'' or 72 which is capable of housing
an individualized serving of ice 16 will now be explained with
reference to FIGS. 12-14. For discussion purposes only, the method
will be described referring to the flexible container 14. However,
it should be understood that the method could be used with the
flexible container 14', 14'' or 72.
[0071] In FIG. 12, a flow diagram is depicted. The method of
forming the flexible container 14 includes the steps of starting
with a first member 10 and a second member 12. Each of the first
and second members, 10 and 12 respectively, are of approximately
the same size and configuration, although they do not have to be.
The first and second members, 10 and 12 respectively, can be formed
from various materials. Desirably, the first and second members, 10
and 12 respectively, are formed from a plastic material, such as a
thermoplastic. Polyethylene and polypropylene are two thermoplastic
materials that work well. Each of the first and second members, 10
and 12 respectively, has a thickness t.sub.1 and t.sub.2
respectively. The thicknesses t.sub.1 and t.sub.2 can be the same
dimension or be of a different dimension. The thicknesses t.sub.1
and t.sub.2 should be less than about 10 mm. Desirably, each of the
thicknesses t.sub.1 and t.sub.2 is less than about 5 mm. More
desirably, each of the thicknesses t.sub.1 and t.sub.2 is less than
about 4 mm. Even more desirably, each of the thicknesses t.sub.1
and t.sub.2 is less than about 3 mm. Most desirably, each of the
thicknesses t.sub.1 and t.sub.2 is less than about 2 mm.
[0072] The first and second members, 10 and 12 respectively, each
have an outer periphery, 20 and 22 respectively. The first and
second members, 10 and 12 respectively, are physically overlapped
one upon the other such that a coterminuous outer periphery 24 is
established. The first member 10 can be positioned above the second
member 12, or alternatively, the second member 12 can be positioned
above the first member 10.
[0073] A seal 28 is then forming about at least a portion of the
coterminuous outer periphery 24 to partially enclose a cavity or
void area 26 within the flexible container 14. The seal 28 can be
formed using heat, pressure, heat and pressure, ultrasonic energy
or any other method known to those skilled in the art. In addition,
the seal 28 can be formed by using an adhesive, glue, a
co-adhesive, etc. The seal 28 can hermetically seal the first and
second members, 10 and 12 respectively, together. The seal 28 can
initially extend around from between about 50% to about 90% of the
coterminuous outer periphery 24. The seal 28 will eventually
enclose the entire cavity 26 after the ice 16 and the air 18 is
introduced into the cavity 26. Desirably, the seal 28 will
initially extend around from between about 50% to about 80% of the
coterminuous outer periphery 24. More desirably, the seal 28 will
initially extend around from between about 50% to about 75% of the
coterminuous outer periphery 24. Even more desirably, the seal 28
will initially extend around from between about 55% to about 70% of
the coterminuous outer periphery 24.
[0074] The initially, unsealed portion defines an inlet to the void
area of the cavity 26. The unsealed portion or inlet can extend
from between about 10% to about 50% around the coterminuous outer
periphery 24. Desirably, the unsealed portion or inlet extends from
between about 20% to about 50% around the coterminuous outer
periphery 24. More desirably, the unsealed portion or inlet extends
from between about 25% to about 50% around the coterminuous outer
periphery 24. Even more desirably, the unsealed portion or inlet
extends from between about 30% to about 45% around the coterminuous
outer periphery 24.
[0075] The air 18 is introduced through the unsealed portion or
inlet to create a cavity 26 having a preselected volume. The volume
is less than about 20 cubic inches so as to enclose an
individualize serving of ice 16. Desirably, the volume is less than
about 19 cubic inches. More desirably, the volume is less than
about 18 cubic inches. Even more desirably, the volume of the
cavity 26 ranges from between about 5 cubic inches to about 20
cubic inches.
[0076] The air 18 can be introduced at atmosphere pressure or be
introduced at above atmospheric pressure into the void area of the
cavity 26. For example, the air 18 can be introduced at a pressure
from between 0 psi to about 1 psi. Alternatively, the air 18 can be
introduced at a pressure of about 0.5 psi or less.
[0077] The first and second members, 10 and 12 respectively, can be
manipulated, if needed, to distort the void area of the cavity 26
so as to allow the air 18 to pass into it through the unsealed
portion or inlet. For example, the first and second members, 10 and
12 respectively, can be moved towards one another to form a void
area therebetween which the air 18 can occupy. Alternatively, the
first and second members, 10 and 12 respectively, can be flexed,
shaken or be pulled apart to form a void area therebetween which
the air 18 can occupy.
[0078] One or more individual pieces of ice 16 can be inserted into
the cavity 26 through the inlet. Each individual piece of ice 16
can have a weight ranging from between about 0.001 ounces to about
1 ounce. The multiple, individual pieces of ice 16 can have a
weight of from between about 1 ounce to about 5 ounces. Desirably,
the multiple, individual pieces of ice 16 can have a weight of from
between about 2 ounces to about 5 ounces. More desirably, the
multiple, individual pieces of ice 16 can have a weight of from
between about 3 ounces to about 4.5 ounces. Even more desirably,
the multiple, individual pieces of ice 16 can have a weight of from
between about 3.5 ounces to about 4 ounces. The weight of the ice
16 can be matched to the size of glass or cup the ice 16 is
designed to be placed or dispensed into. It should be understood
that the ice 16 dispended into a particular glass or cup may not
entirely fill that glass or cup. Instead, the amount of ice 16
dispensed into a particular glass or cup should be sufficient to
cool the liquid or fluid the glass or cup is designed to hold. For
example, 1-4 normal size ice cubes, each having a weight of from
between about 0.35 ounces to about 0.45 ounces, may be sufficient
to cool a drink poured into a 4 or 6 ounce glass or cup. Likewise,
2-6 normal size ice cubes, each having a weight of from between
about 0.35 ounces to about 0.45 ounces, may be sufficient to cool a
drink poured into an 8 or 12 ounce glass or cup. By a "normal size
ice cube" it is meant an ice cube having a maximum dimension of
about 1.5 inches. A normal size ice cube measures roughly about 1
inch by about 1 inch by about 1.25 inches.
[0079] The individual pieces of ice 16 can have a predetermined
shape or they can be randomly shaped. Each of the individual pieces
of ice 16 can have approximately the same shape or each can vary in
shape. The ice 16 can be introduced at the same time as the air 18
or the ice 16 can be introduced before or after the air 18 is
inserted. Desirably, some air 18 is first inserted to enlarge the
void area of the cavity 26 before the ice 26 is inserted.
[0080] The unsealed portion or inlet is then sealed to form a
completely enclosed cavity 26 containing the ice 16 and at least
about 50% of the air 18. The unsealed portion or inlet can be
sealed using the same or a different type or kind of seal 28 as was
used to form the seal 28. Desirably, the seal 28 covering the inlet
is identical to the seal 28 surrounding the remainder of the outer
periphery 24. The pre-packaged, flexible container 14 of the ice 16
and the air 18 is sized for an individual serving of ice into a
glass or cup. The glass or cup can be formed from various
materials, including but not limited to: glass, crystal, china,
paper, wax paper, foam, plastic, clear plastic, metal, tin,
aluminum, etc. The glass or cup can be sized to hold a
predetermined amount of liquid or fluid. For example, the glass or
cup can be sized to hold from about 1 to about 24 ounces of a
liquid or fluid. The air 18 retained in the cavity 26 of the
pre-packaged, flexible container 14 should occupy at least about
50% of the volume of the cavity 26. Desirably, the air 18 will
occupy more than 50% of the volume of the container 14.
[0081] The temperature of the air 18 within the cavity 26 can vary.
The temperature of the air 18 can be below 32.degree. F., be
approximately equal to 32.degree. F., or be above 32.degree. F.
Desirably, the temperature of the air 18 within the cavity is at or
below 32.degree. F. when the flexible container 14 is filled. The
temperature of the air 18 within the flexible container 14 can
change as the environment surrounding the flexible container 14
changes.
[0082] Referring to FIG. 13, an alternative method of forming a
pre-packaged, flexible container 14 is shown in the flow diagram.
In this method, each of the first and second members, 10 and 12
respectively, are constructed from a vapor-impermeable material.
The vapor-impermeable material will prevent or limit vapor within
the flexible container 14 from escaping. The vapor-impermeable
material will also prevent outside vapors from permeating into the
flexible container 14. In addition, this method teaches that the
seal 28 initially extends from between about 50% to about 80%
around the coterminuous outer periphery 24 and the unsealed portion
or inlet extends from about 10% to about 50% around the
coterminuous outer periphery 24.
[0083] The method of forming a pre-packaged, flexible container 14
can also include a tear strip 30. The tear strip 30 can be formed
in the first member 10, see FIG. 5, be formed in the second member
12, or be formed in both of the first and second members, 10 and 12
respectively. The tear strip 30 functions to facilitate easy
opening of the individual, flexible container 14. The tear strip 30
can optionally include a first end in the form of a finger tab 40,
which extends beyond the coterminuous outer periphery 24. The
finger tab 40 provides a good way for a person to grasp one end of
the tear strip 30 and rip or tear it from the flexible container
14. As the tear strip 30 is torn away, an opening will be formed in
the flexible container 14 through which the ice 16 can be easily
dispensed or removed. For example, the ice 16 can be dumped or
individually removed from the opened flexible container 14. It is
anticipated that all of the ice 16 housed within the flexible
container 14 will be dispensed at one time but it does not have to
be.
[0084] It is also possible to form a notch 70, such as the V-shaped
notch 70, see FIG. 8, in the coterminuous outer periphery 24. The
V-shaped notch 70 will facilitate opening the container 14 in order
to remove the ice 16.
[0085] Referring now to FIG. 14, a third method of forming a
pre-packaged, flexible container 14 is depicted in the flow
diagram. In this method, each of the first and second members, 10
and 12 respectively, are constructed from a liquid-impermeable
material. The liquid-impermeable material can be made from
polyethylene, polypropylene or a combination thereof. The
liquid-impermeable material will prevent or limit liquid within the
cavity 26 of the flexible container 14 from escaping. Likewise, it
will prevent a liquid which contacts the outer surface of the
flexible container 14 from getting into the cavity 26.
[0086] This method also teaches that the seal 28 initially extends
from between about 50% to about 75% around the coterminuous outer
periphery 24. This will allow for a larger inlet so that it is
easier to insert the ice 16 into the cavity 26. In addition, this
method teaches that the air 18 occupies more than 50% of the volume
of the cavity 26. Desirably, the air 18 occupies from between about
55% to about 75% of the volume of the cavity 26. More desirably,
the air 18 occupies from between about 55% to about 65% of the
volume of the cavity 26. Even more desirably, the air 18 occupies
from between about 55% to about 60% of the volume of the cavity
26.
[0087] Furthermore, the method depicted in FIG. 14 describes that
each of the multiple pieces of ice 16 has a dimension of less than
about 1.5 inches. Ice 16 of this size or smaller will easily fit in
a glass or cup having a capacity of about 4-12 ounces. The ice 16
can be formed into various shapes and configurations. Desirably,
the ice 16 is in the form of one or more ice cubes because ice
cubes tend to last longer in a warm environment then multiple
smaller pieces of ice. The ice cube can have at least one dimension
that has a maximum dimension of less than about 1 inch. More
desirably, the ice 16 is in the form of one or more ice cubes each
having at least one dimension that has a maximum dimension of less
than about 0.9 inches.
[0088] Optionally, the flexible container 14 can be formed from a
thermoplastic material having two or more layers. One of the layers
can be an insulating layer which can assist in maintaining the cool
temperature within the cavity 26. The insulating layer can be
formed from an insulating material known to those skilled in the
art. By maintaining a predetermined cool temperature range within
the cavity 26, one can be assured that the ice 16 will remain solid
for a desired period of time.
Method of Serving a Drink to a Person
[0089] Referring to FIGS. 15, 18 and 19, three different flow
diagrams are shown depicting the various steps involved in a method
of serving a drink to a person. Again, for discussion purposes
only, the method will be described referring to the flexible
container 14. However, it should be understood that the method
could be used with the flexible container 14', 14'' or 72.
[0090] Referring to FIG. 16, the method includes supplying or
providing a person with a drinking vessel 84. The drinking vessel
84 has a closed bottom 86, an open top 88, and a sidewall 90
extending between the bottom 86 and the top 88. The drinking vessel
84 is depicted as a glass or cup which is capable of holding a
predetermined volume of liquid. For example, the drinking vessel 84
can be designed to hold anywhere from about 1 ounce to about 24
ounces. A shot glass would hold about 1 ounce while a large
beverage cup from a fast food restaurant can hold up to 24 ounces.
The drinking vessel 84 will typically have a capacity for holding
an even number of ounces of a fluid or a liquid. For example, the
drinking vessel 84 can be designed to hold 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 20
or 24 ounces of a liquid or a fluid. If desired, the drinking
vessel 84 can be designed to hold an odd number of ounces of a
fluid or a liquid. For example, the drinking vessel 84 could be
designed and constructed to hold 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, etc. ounces of a
fluid or a liquid.
[0091] The drinking vessel 84 can be formed in various sizes and
can have an infinite variety of shapes and configurations. For
example, the drinking vessel 84 could include a stem, such as is
common with a wine glass, it could include a handle, such as is
common with a beer mug, or it could include a permanent cover that
is movable, such as by a hinge, relative to a sidewall, such as is
common with some old fashion beer steins. The drinking vessel 84
can have a flat bottom 86, a concave bottom, an arcuate bottom,
etc. The drinking vessel 84 can have one or more straight, curved
or arcuately shaped sidewalls 90. The sidewalls 90 can be tapered
or aligned parallel to one another. The sidewalls 90 can also be
arcuate in profile, if desired. The drinking vessel 84 can be
formed from a variety of materials, including but not limited to:
glass, crystal, plastic, clear plastic, thermoplastic, a composite
having one or more layers, paper, wax paper, treated or coated
paper, foam, Styrofoam, etc. A combination of two or more different
materials can also be used to construct the drinking vessel 84.
Furthermore, an insulating material can be incorporated into the
design of the drinking vessel 84 to assist in keeping the fluid or
liquid at a desired temperature for a certain period of time.
Desirably, the drinking vessel 84 is made of plastic or glass. By
"glass" it is meant any of a large class of materials that are
typically made by silicates fusing with boric oxide, aluminum
oxide, or phosphorous pentoxide, are generally hard, brittle, and
transparent or translucent, and are considered to be supercooled
liquids that form non-crystalline solids.
[0092] Referring to FIG. 17, an exploded cross-sectional view of
another embodiment of a drinking vessel 92 is shown. The drinking
vessel 92 has a closed bottom 94, an open top 96 and a sidewall 98
extending between the bottom 94 and the top 96. The top 96 of the
drinking vessel 92 is designed to be covered by a removable lid 100
having an opening 102 formed therethrough. For example, the opening
102 can be sized and configured to receive a straw 104. The
removable lid 100 can be friction fitted over the top 96 of the
drinking vessel 92. Likewise, other known means of securing the
removable lid 100 to the drinking vessel 92 can be utilized.
[0093] Referring again to FIG. 15, the method also includes
supplying the person with a pre-packaged, flexible container 14 of
ice 16 and air 18. The flexible container 14 has a volume of less
than about 20 cubic inches or less. Desirably, the flexible
container 14 has a volume of less than about 19 cubic inches. More
desirably, the flexible container 14 has a volume of less than
about 18 cubic inches. Even more desirably, the flexible container
14 has a volume of from between about 10 cubic inches to about 20
cubic inches.
[0094] The flexible container 14 is designed to hold one or more
pieces of the ice 16. Desirably, multiple pieces of ice are present
in the flexible container 14. The amount of the ice 16 present
should be sufficient to cool the liquid or fluid poured into the
drinking vessel 84 or 92. The ice 16 can be in various shapes and
sizes as explained above. Desirably, the ice 16 is in the form of
individual ice cubes each having a temperature of about 32.degree.
F. Desirably, the ice 16 is at a temperature of less than about
32.degree. F. More desirably, the ice 16 is at a temperature below
32.degree. F. when it is inserted into the flexible container 14.
Once the flexible container 14 is moved to an area maintained at
room temperature, the ice 16 will slowly start to melt. Hopefully,
the ice 16 stored within the flexible container 14 will be used
before it melts into water.
[0095] When multiple pieces of the ice 16 are inserted and stored
in the flexible container 14, the ice 16 should have a total weight
of less than about 5 ounces. Desirably, the ice 16 stored in the
flexible container 14 will have a total weight of less than about 4
ounces. More desirably, the ice 16 stored in the flexible container
14 will have a total weight of less than about 3 ounces.
[0096] The amount of air 18 present in the volume of the flexible
container 14 should be at least about 50%. Desirably, the amount of
air 18 present in the volume of the flexible container 14 should
range from between about 55% to about 75%. More desirably, the
amount of air 18 present in the volume of the flexible container 14
should range from between about 55% to about 65%. Even more
desirably, the amount of air 18 present in the volume of the
flexible container 14 should range from between about 55% to about
60%. The temperature of the air 18 within the flexible container 14
can range from between about 10.degree. F. to about room
temperature. Desirably, the temperature of the air 18 within the
flexible container 14 will range from between about 10.degree. F.
to about 35.degree. F. More desirably, the temperature of the air
18 within the flexible container 14 will be about 32.degree. F.
Even more desirably, the temperature of the air 18 within the
flexible container 14 will be less than or below about 32.degree.
F.
[0097] As mentioned above with reference to FIG. 5, the flexible
container 14 can include a tear strip 30 to facilitate opening the
flexible container 14. Optionally, a resealable opening can be
substituted in place of the tear strip 30. Resealable devices for
resealing or closing an opening in a flexible container 14, that
has been opened at least once, are well known to those skilled in
the packaging art. For example, the resealable device can consist
of an elongated strip of material that can be inserted between an
elongated U-shaped member to form a secure, air tight
attachment.
[0098] Referring now to FIG. 18 another embodiment of a method of
serving a drink to a person is depicted. This method includes the
steps of supplying a person with a drinking vessel 92 having a
closed bottom 94, a top 96 and a sidewall 98 extending between the
bottom 94 and the top 96. The drinking vessel 92, see FIG. 17, also
has a removable lid 100 with an opening 102 formed therein. The lid
100 is sized and constructed to fit over the top 96 and provide a
secure cover for the opening in the drinking vessel 92. Desirably,
the removable lid 100 is friction fitted over the top 96 of the
drinking vessel 92. The drinking vessel 92 is designed to hold a
predetermined amount of liquid or fluid. The exact amount of liquid
or fluid can vary. For example, the drinking vessel 92 can be
constructed to hold from between about 1 to 24 ounces of a liquid
or fluid. Desirably, the drinking vessel 92 is constructed to hold
from about 4 to about 16 ounces of a liquid or fluid. More
desirably, the drinking vessel 92 is constructed to hold from about
4 to about 12 ounces of a liquid or fluid.
[0099] The method also includes supplying the person with a liquid
or fluid which can be poured through the top 96 when the lid 100 is
removed. The liquid or fluid can be stored in an individual,
separate receptacle, such as in an aluminum can, or in a plastic or
glass bottle. The method further includes supplying the person with
a pre-packaged, flexible container 14 of ice 16 and air 18. The
flexible container 14 has a volume of less than about 20 cubic
inches. Desirably, the flexible container 14 has a volume of less
than about 19 cubic inches. More desirably, the flexible container
14 has a volume of less than about 18 cubic inches. The person then
opens the pre-packaged, flexible container 14 of the ice 16 and the
air 18 and dispenses the ice 16 into the drinking vessel 92 to cool
the liquid or fluid.
[0100] Lastly, referring to FIG. 19, still another embodiment of a
method of serving a drink to a person is depicted. This method
includes the steps of supplying a person with a pre-packaged,
flexible container 14 of ice 16 and air 18. The flexible container
14 has a volume of less than about 20 cubic inches. Desirably, the
flexible container 14 has a volume of less than about 19 cubic
inches. More desirably, the flexible container 14 has a volume of
less than about 18 cubic inches.
[0101] The method also includes supplying the person with a liquid
or fluid contained in a separate receptacle. The separate
receptacle can be an aluminum can, a plastic bottle, a glass
bottle, etc. having a volume of about 12 ounces. Optionally, the
aluminum can, plastic bottle or glass bottle can have a fluid
capacity of from between about 6 to about 16 ounces. Alternatively,
the separate receptacle can be an insulated cup formed from
Styrofoam having a fluid capacity of less than about 12 ounces.
[0102] The method further includes supplying the person with a
drinking vessel 84, see FIG. 16, having a closed bottom 86, an open
top 88 and a sidewall 90 extending between the bottom 86 and the
top 90. The drinking vessel 84 should be capable of holding about
12 ounces of a liquid or fluid. The person then opens the
pre-packaged, flexible container 14 of the ice 16 and the air 18
and dispenses the ice 16 into the drinking vessel 84 to cool the
liquid or fluid.
[0103] While the invention has been described in conjunction with
several specific embodiments, it is to be understood that many
alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to
those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description.
Accordingly, this invention is intended to embrace all such
alternatives, modifications and variations which fall within the
spirit and scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *