Abstract:
A frozen snack preparation system including a plurality of product containers, a stand and an insertion device. Each of the product containers has an opening. The stand has a plurality of receptacles formed therein. Each of the receptacles is adapted to receive one of the product containers. The insertion device has a plurality of openings formed therein. The plurality of openings are aligned with the plurality of receptacles when the insertion device is in engagement with the stand.

Description:
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    This application claims priority to U.S. Applic. No. 61/763,754, which was filed on Feb. 12, 2013. The contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The invention relates generally to a system for preparing food products. More particularly, the invention relates to a system for preparing frozen snacks. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    Frozen desserts have been a part of civilization for a very long time. The ancient Romans had blocks of ice carried down from the mountains in the summer. The blocks were ground into crushed ice that was flavored with fruit and syrup. The Chinese are credited with the same practice, and these sherbets, sorbets, and frozen ices were served in the thirteenth century court of Kublai Khan (1215-1294) when the Italian adventurer Marco Polo (1254-1324) visited. 
         [0004]    Other ancient cultures including those of Turkey, Persia (now Iran), the Arabian Peninsula, and India also knew of frozen, flavored ices. They were usually a privilege of the wealthy and were made of ice, fruit pulp, fruit syrup, and flowers for flavor, fragrance, and color. Frozen treats were served to honor guests at banquets or to cleanse the palate between courses, as sorbets are still used today. 
         [0005]    The invention of the frozen pop is attributed to Frank Epperson, who in 1905, as an 11-year-old, mixed powdered soda pop and water to create a drink, as was popular at the time. Epperson forgot about his preparation and left it outside on the porch of his home in Oakland, Calif. Due to an unexpected cold spell, the concoction froze overnight, and the stick he had used to stir the powder in the water stuck in the frozen liquid. 
         [0006]    Epperson pulled out the whole frozen mass and found that he had invented a new treat. He named it the “Epperson icicle.” The following summer, he made his frozen treats in his family&#39;s icebox and sold them around his neighborhood under the shortened name of “Epsicle.” Frank again rechristened his discovery the “popsicle” to show that they were made from soda pop. 
         [0007]    Another popular frozen confection is sold in the form of a cylindrical paper tube filled with frozen sherbet or similar substance. One of the more widely available brands of such confections is the nearly ubiquitous the “push-up”®. A cylindrical plug in the bottom of the tube is attached to a stick, which is used both as a handle and to push the sherbet above the tube for consumption. 
         [0008]    Although both popsicles® and push-ups® are provided with integral handles, the art has developed several forms of auxiliary grips for such confections. For example, Hoeting, U.S. Pat. No. 5,993,870, discusses a holder and coating device for use with handle-mounted confectionery products such as lollipops, or ice cream treats or the like. 
         [0009]    The confectionery holder holds and stores both a handle-mounted confectionery product and an edible topping of a particulate material, and facilitates coating the confectionery product with the topping. The holder has a base and a removable cover for gaining access to the confectionery product. The base holds a supply of the edible coating. When the device is manipulated, the edible coating is applied to the confectionery product. 
         [0010]    Berg, U.S. Pat. No. 3,459,296, is directed to a container for a portion of an iced confection that can be exposed for eating. The container comprises an open-ended body portion conforming to the shape of the confection and a bottom having a hollow tubular handle extended through the opening in the bottom of the body portion. 
         [0011]    Another form frozen snacks may be provided is in an elongated tube. The tube contains a liquid that may be colored or flavored. The liquid in the tube may have sufficient stability so that it does not need to be maintained at a low temperature during distribution. After purchase the tube is placed in a freezer until the liquid at least partially solidifies. 
         [0012]    When it is desired to consume the now frozen liquid, one end of the tube is cut off to provide access to the frozen liquid. The frozen liquid may be dispensed from the tube by pushing the frozen liquid towards the open end of the tube. This product is typically referred to as a freezie. The tubes are typically distributed in packages that may include a variety of flavors and colors so that persons desiring to consume the freezies can select a preferred flavor or color. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0013]    An embodiment of the invention is directed to a frozen snack preparation system that includes a stand, an insertion device and a plurality of receptacles. The frozen snack preparation system enables products to be prepared in the receptacles so that the snack products may be readily consumed. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0014]    The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of embodiments and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments and together with the description serve to explain principles of embodiments. Other embodiments and many of the intended advantages of embodiments will be readily appreciated as they become better understood by reference to the following detailed description. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily to scale relative to each other. Like reference numerals designate corresponding similar parts. 
           [0015]      FIG. 1  is a front view of a frozen snack preparation system according to an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0016]      FIG. 2  is a side view of the frozen snack preparation system of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0017]      FIG. 3  is a top view of the frozen snack preparation system of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0018]      FIG. 4  is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the frozen snack preparation system. 
           [0019]      FIG. 5  is a side view of the frozen snack preparation system of  FIG. 4 . 
           [0020]      FIG. 6  is a top view of the frozen snack preparation system of  FIG. 4 . 
           [0021]      FIG. 7  is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the frozen snack preparation system. 
           [0022]      FIG. 8  is a side view of the frozen snack preparation system of  FIG. 7 . 
           [0023]      FIG. 9  is a top view of the frozen snack preparation system of  FIG. 7 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0024]    An embodiment of the invention is directed to a frozen snack preparation system, as illustrated at  10  in  FIGS. 1-3 . The frozen snack preparation system  10  may include a stand  20  to hold at least one tube  22  during a filling process in which a liquid is placed in the at least one tube  22 . 
         [0025]    The stand  20  may have a generally upright configuration as illustrated in the figures. Providing the stand  20  with an upright configuration enables the at least one tube  22  to be held in an upright configuration to facilitate placing a liquid into the at least one tube  22 . 
         [0026]    The stand  20  includes at least one receptacle  24  in which the at least one tube  22  may be positioned prior to the filling process. In certain embodiments, the stand  20  may include between two and ten receptacles. In other embodiments, the stand  20  may include six receptacles as illustrated in  FIGS. 1-3 . 
         [0027]    The number of receptacles  24  and the associated arrangement of the receptacles  24  may be selected based upon factors such as the number of tubes it is desired to simultaneously prepare. The receptacles  24  may be oriented in a variety of configurations using the concepts of the invention. One such orientation of the receptacles  24  is generally aligned to form a line. Other possible configurations for the receptacles  24  include an array having more than one line of receptacles  24  such as two lines that each include four receptacles  24 . 
         [0028]    In certain embodiments, the receptacle  24  may have a generally cylindrical or elliptical shape that corresponds to the filled shape of the tube  22 . The receptacle  24  may extend substantially along a length of the tube  22 . While such a configuration would enhance the support provided to the tube  22 , it may increase the cost to manufacture the stand  20 . In configurations where the tube  22  extends substantially along a length of the tube  22 , a portion of the receptacle  24  may be transparent to view the level of liquid in the tube  22  during the filling process. 
         [0029]    The stand  20  may include a lower tube support  30  and an upper tube support  32  that are interconnected with at least one side support  34 . A distance between the lower tube support  30  and the upper tube support  32  may be selected based upon a length of the tube  22  that is being used in conjunction with the stand  20  so that when a lower end of the tube  22  is placed proximate the lower tube support  30 , an upper end of the tube  22  extends to proximate the upper tube support  32 . 
         [0030]    In certain embodiments, the upper end of the tube  22  extends above the upper tube support  32 . Using such a configuration enables a person using the invention to view the level of the liquid in the tube  22  to prevent the tube  22  from being overfilled. As is discussed in more detail below, the placement of the upper tube support  32  may enable a fill line on the tube  22  to be viewed during the filling process. This configuration also enables a person using the invention to grasp the upper end of the tube  22  and then close the open end of the tube  22 . 
         [0031]    While the figures illustrate that the lower tube support  30  and the upper tube support  32  are mounted in a stationary position with respect to each other, it is possible to mount at least one of the lower tube support  30  and the upper tube support  32  in a movable configuration to adjust a distance between the lower tube support  30  and the upper tube support  32 . Such a configuration would enable the invention to be used with tubes  22  having different lengths. 
         [0032]    The lower tube support  30  may be substantially flat or may include at least one recess formed therein that is indicative of the location at which the bottoms of the tubes  22  should be placed during the filling process. The lower tube support  30  thereby supports the tubes  22  during the filling process so that the tubes  22  can all be filled at the same time. 
         [0033]    The lower tube support  30  may define a trough having raised edges. The trough would thereby collect any liquid that is potentially spilled during the process of filling the tubes. Increasing a height of the edges would increase the volume of liquid that could be retained on the lower tube support  30 . 
         [0034]    The upper tube support  32  may have the receptacles  24  formed therein. Such a configuration provides support to the upper end of the tubes  22  while the tubes  22  are being filled with liquid. In certain embodiments, the receptacle  24  is an aperture formed in the upper tube support  32 . 
         [0035]    The stand  20  may be fabricated so that a length and/or depth of the stand  20  is greater proximate a lower end thereof as illustrated in the figures. Forming the stand  20  with this configuration enhances the stability of the stand and thereby reduces the potential of the stand being tipped over during the filling process because if the stand  20  is tipped over during the filling process, the liquid being placed in the tubes  22  could spill. 
         [0036]    The stand  20  may be fabricated so that it is substantially symmetrical. For example, the stand  20  may have front and back sides that are shaped substantially similar to each other. Forming the stand  20  with this configuration enables the front and back sides to be molded in a single mold cavity and then attached to each other after the molding process is completed. 
         [0037]    The stand  20  may be fabricated from a variety of materials using the concepts of the invention. The materials used to fabricate the stand  20  should resist degradation during use as well have sufficient strength so that the stand is not likely to break during use. 
         [0038]    Depending on a variety of factors such as the length of the tubes  22  and the material from which the tubes  22  are fabricated, at least one intermediate support  40  may be provided. The at least one intermediate support  40  may be positioned along at least one of the front side and the back side of the tube  22 . The intermediate support  40  may also partially extend around a surface of the tubes  22 . In certain embodiments, the at least one intermediate support  40  includes at least one recess formed therein that substantially conform to a shape of the tubes  22  when filled with liquid. 
         [0039]    The at least one intermediate support  40  may be integrally formed with the other portions of the stand  20 . Alternatively, the at least one intermediate support  40  may be formed separately from the other portions of the stand  20  and then attached to the stand  20  in the manufacturing process. 
         [0040]    Alternatively or additionally to providing a fill line on the tube  22 , a fill line may be provided on one of the components of the stand. The fill line thereby enables a person using the invention to see the level of liquid being placed into the tube  22  to thereby avoid overfilling the tube  22 . 
         [0041]    The tube  22  may have a generally elongated configuration having an opening proximate an end thereof. Forming the tube  22  with this configuration enables the tube  22  to be held in a person&#39;s hand when the product placed in the tube  22  is being consumed. It is possible for the tube  22  to have other configurations. Examples of such alternative configurations include square, triangular and circular. 
         [0042]    In certain embodiments, the tube  22  may be formed with a generally cylindrical configuration. In other embodiments, the tube  22  may be formed with a rectangular configuration. 
         [0043]    The tube  22  may be formed with a variety of capacities depending on the type of product that is desired to be placed into the tube  22  as well as the intended consumer. In certain embodiments, the tube  22  may have a capacity of up to about 200 milliliters. In other embodiments, the tube  22  may have a capacity of between about 20 milliliters and about 150 milliliters. 
         [0044]    The tube  22  may be fabricated from a variety of materials using the concepts of the invention. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the tube  22  may be formed from a transparent material so that a person using the invention could view the level of liquid in the tube  22 . 
         [0045]    While it is possible to form the tube  22  from a generally rigid material that retains a cylindrical or elliptical profile when not filed with liquid, the tube  22  may be fabricated from a flexible material that collapses when the tube  22  is not filled with liquid. Providing the tube  22  with a flexible configuration enables the tube  22  to be collapsed during the distribution process prior to use. 
         [0046]    In certain embodiments, the tube  22  is fabricated from a plastic material. The material from which the tube  22  should exhibit sufficient structural rigidity so that the at least one tube does not weaken to an extent such that the liquid could leak from the tube  22  at ambient temperatures as well as the reduced temperatures in a conventional residential freezer. 
         [0047]    A fill line  46  may be provided on the tube  22  to indicate to persons using the invention how much liquid should be placed in the tube  22 . The fill line  46  may be placed in a spaced-apart configuration from the closure mechanism  48  to account for expansion of the liquid placed in the tube  22  when frozen. This configuration thereby minimizes the potential of the closure mechanism failing, which could permit the liquid to leak from the tube  22 . 
         [0048]    The tube  22  may be provided with a closure mechanism  48  to maintain the tube  22  in a closed configuration after a liquid is placed therein. In certain embodiments, a zipper-type plastic closure system may be provided on the tube  22  proximate an open end thereof. The zipper-type closure mechanism may be similar to aspects of a closure provided on a ZIPLOC bag. 
         [0049]    Alternatively or additionally, a closure mechanism (not shown) may be placed over the open end of the at least one tube. In certain embodiments, the closure mechanism may include two sections that are pivotally mounted to each other. A fastener may be provided opposite the pivotal attachment end to maintain the sections in a closed configuration. 
         [0050]    The frozen snack preparation system may also include an insertion device  60 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 1-3 . The insertion device  60  may facilitate placing the tubes  22  into the stand  20 . The insertion device  60  may also facilitate placing the liquid into the tubes  22 . 
         [0051]    The insertion device may include a cross member  62  from which a plurality of fingers  64  extend. The number of fingers  64  may correspond to the number of receptacles  24  on the stand  20 . 
         [0052]    The fingers  64  may have a length that is less than a length of the tubes  22 . The fingers  64  may have an at least partially cylindrical shape. Forming the fingers  64  with the at least partially cylindrical shape enables the fingers  64  to move the tubes  22  from a collapsed configuration to a partially expanded configuration. Moving the tubes  22  to the partially expanded configuration facilitates positioning the tubes  22  in the stand  20  as well as facilitates placing liquid in the tubes  22 . 
         [0053]    A distal end of the fingers  64  may be curved to minimize the potential of the fingers  64  damaging the tubes  22  as the fingers  64  are inserted into the tubes  22 . Alternatively or additionally, the fingers  64  may have a tapered profile so that the fingers  64  are smaller proximate a distal end thereof. This configuration may enhance the ability to insert the fingers  64  into the tubes  22 . 
         [0054]    The fingers  64  may be in fluid communication with the cross member  62  so that a liquid placed in the cross member  62  flows into the fingers  64  and then into the tubes  22 . In certain embodiments, the cross member  62  includes an upper side that is at least partially open. Forming the cross member  62  with this configuration allows liquid to be poured into the cross member  62  and then directed into the tubes  22  through the fingers  64 . 
         [0055]    The cross member  62  may have a U-shaped profile where an open end is oriented upwardly. The fingers  64  may intersect the cross member  62  proximate a lower portion of the U-shape. 
         [0056]    Alternatively, it is possible to substantially close the cross member  62  except for an aperture  66  extending from an upper surface thereof as illustrated in the figures. The liquid may be poured into the cross member  62  through the aperture  66 . Depending on factors such as the size of the aperture  66  and the rate at which it is desired to fill the tubes  22 , a funnel (not shown) may be placed in the aperture  66  to reduce the potential of liquid being spilled during the filling process. 
         [0057]    An interior region of the cross member  62  may include at least one divider that extends from proximate the aperture  66  to proximate one of the fingers  64 . Since the insertion device  60  is generally symmetrical, each side of the cross member  62  may include two dividers to separate liquid flowing along each side into three liquid flow paths that are each associated with one of the fingers  64 . 
         [0058]    A support  68  may extend from the cross member  62  to the stand  20  to maintain the cross member  62  in a spaced-apart configuration from the top of the stand  20  so that the tops of the tubes  22  are not crushed when the insertion device  60  is placed on the stand  20 . 
         [0059]    The insertion device  60  may be fabricated so that it is substantially symmetrical. For example, the insertion device  60  may have front and back sides that are shaped substantially similar to each other. Forming the insertion device  60  with this configuration enables the front and back sides to be molded in a single mold cavity and then attached to each other after the molding process is completed. 
         [0060]    An alternative embodiment of the frozen snack preparation system, as illustrated at  110  in  FIGS. 4-6 . Similar to the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 1-3 , the frozen snack preparation system  110  may include a stand  120  to hold at least one tube  122  during a filling process in which a liquid is placed in the at least one tube  122 . 
         [0061]    The stand  120  may have a generally upright configuration as illustrated in the figures. Providing the stand  120  with an upright configuration enables the at least one tube  122  to be held in an upright configuration to facilitate placing a liquid into the at least one tube  122 . 
         [0062]    The stand  120  includes at least one receptacle  124  in which the at least one tube  122  may be positioned prior to the filling process. In certain embodiments, the stand  120  may include between two and ten receptacles. In other embodiments, the stand  120  may include six receptacles as illustrated in  FIGS. 4-6 . 
         [0063]    The number of receptacles  124  and the associated arrangement of the receptacles  124  may be selected based upon factors such as the number of tubes it is desired to simultaneously prepare. The receptacles  124  may be oriented in a variety of configurations using the concepts of the invention. One such orientation of the receptacles  124  is generally aligned to form a line. Other possible configurations for the receptacles  124  include an array having more than one line of receptacles  124  such as two lines that each include four receptacles  124 . 
         [0064]    In certain embodiments, the receptacle  124  may have a generally cylindrical or elliptical shape that corresponds to the filled shape of the tube  122 . The receptacle  124  may extend substantially along a length of the tube  122 . While such a configuration would enhance the support provided to the tube  122 , it may increase the cost to manufacture the stand  120 . In configurations where the tube  122  extends substantially along a length of the tube  122 , a portion of the receptacle  124  may be transparent to view the level of liquid in the tube  122  during the filling process. 
         [0065]    The stand  120  may include a lower tube support  130  and an upper tube support  132  that has a generally arch shaped-configuration. A distance between the lower tube support  130  and the upper tube support  132  may be selected based upon a length of the tube  122  that is being used in conjunction with the stand  120  so that when a lower end of the tube  122  is placed proximate the lower tube support  130 , an upper end of the tube  122  extends to proximate the upper tube support  132 . 
         [0066]    In certain embodiments, the upper end of the tube  122  extends above the upper tube support  132 . Using such a configuration enables a person using the invention to view the level of the liquid in the tube  122  to prevent the tube  122  from being overfilled. As is discussed in more detail below, the placement of the upper tube support  132  may enable a fill line on the tube  122  to be viewed during the filling process. This configuration also enables a person using the invention to grasp the upper end of the tube  122  and then close the open end of the tube  122 . 
         [0067]    In addition to the upper tube support  132 , the invention may include a back support  134  that is attached to at least one of the lower tube support  130  and the upper tube support  132 . Especially proximate opposite ends of the arched upper tube support  132 , the back support  134  may extend above the upper tube support  132 . The receptacle  124  may be mounted with respect to the back support  134   
         [0068]    While the figures illustrate that the lower tube support  130  and the upper tube support  132  are mounted in a stationary position with respect to each other, it is possible to mount at least one of the lower tube support  130  and the upper tube support  132  in a movable configuration to adjust a distance between the lower tube support  130  and the upper tube support  132 . Such a configuration would enable the invention to be used with tubes  122  having different lengths. 
         [0069]    The lower tube support  130  may be substantially flat or may include at least one recess formed therein that is indicative of the location at which the bottoms of the tubes  122  should be placed during the filling process. The lower tube support  130  thereby supports the tubes  122  during the filling process so that the tubes  122  can all be filled at the same time. 
         [0070]    The lower tube support  130  may define a trough having raised edges. The trough would thereby collect any liquid that is potentially spilled during the process of filling the tubes  122 . Increasing a height of the edges would increase the volume of liquid that could be retained on the lower tube support  30 . 
         [0071]    The upper tube support  132  may have the receptacles  124  formed therein. Such a configuration provides support to the upper end of the tubes  122  while the tubes  122  are being filled with liquid. In certain embodiments, the receptacle  124  is an aperture formed in the upper tube support  132 . 
         [0072]    The stand  120  may be fabricated so that a length and/or depth of the stand  120  is greater proximate a lower end thereof as illustrated in the figures. Forming the stand  120  with this configuration enhances the stability of the stand and thereby reduces the potential of the stand being tipped over during the filling process because if the stand  120  is tipped over during the filling process, the liquid being placed in the tubes  122  could spill. 
         [0073]    The stand  120  may be fabricated so that it is substantially symmetrical. For example, the stand  120  may have front and back sides that are shaped substantially similar to each other. Forming the stand  120  with this configuration enables the front and back sides to be molded in a single mold cavity and then attached to each other after the molding process is completed. 
         [0074]    The stand  120  may be fabricated from a variety of materials using the concepts of the invention. The materials used to fabricate the stand  120  should resist degradation during use as well have sufficient strength so that the stand is not likely to break during use. 
         [0075]    Depending on a variety of factors such as the length of the tubes  122  and the material from which the tubes  122  are fabricated, at least one intermediate support  140  may be provided. The at least one intermediate support  40  may be positioned along at least one of the front side and the back side of the tube  122 . The intermediate support  140  may also partially extend around a surface of the tubes  122 . In certain embodiments, the at least one intermediate support  140  includes at least one recess formed therein that substantially conform to a shape of the tubes  122  when filled with liquid. 
         [0076]    The at least one intermediate support  140  may be integrally formed with the other portions of the stand  120 . Alternatively, the at least one intermediate support  140  may be formed separately from the other portions of the stand  120  and then attached to the stand  120  in the manufacturing process. 
         [0077]    Alternatively or additionally to providing a fill line on the tube  122 , a fill line may be provided on one of the components of the stand. The fill line thereby enables a person using the invention to see the level of liquid being placed into the tube  122  to thereby avoid overfilling the tube  22 . 
         [0078]    The tube  122  may have a generally elongated configuration having an opening proximate an end thereof. Forming the tube  122  with this configuration enables the tube  122  to be held in a person&#39;s hand when the product placed in the tube  122  is being consumed. It is possible for the tube  122  to have other configurations. Examples of such alternative configurations include square, triangular and circular. 
         [0079]    In certain embodiments, the tube  122  may be formed with a generally cylindrical configuration. In other embodiments, the tube  122  may be formed with a rectangular configuration. 
         [0080]    The tube  122  may be formed with a variety of capacities depending on the type of product that is desired to be placed into the tube  122  as well as the intended consumer. In certain embodiments, the tube  122  may have a capacity of up to about 200 milliliters. In other embodiments, the tube  122  may have a capacity of between about 20 milliliters and about 150 milliliters. 
         [0081]    The tube  122  may be fabricated from a variety of materials using the concepts of the invention. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the tube  122  may be formed from a transparent material so that a person using the invention could view the level of liquid in the tube  122 . 
         [0082]    While it is possible to form the tube  122  from a generally rigid material that retains a cylindrical or elliptical profile when not filed with liquid, the tube  122  may be fabricated from a flexible material that collapses when the tube  122  is not filled with liquid. Providing the tube  122  with a flexible configuration enables the tube  122  to be collapsed during the distribution process prior to use. 
         [0083]    In certain embodiments, the tube  122  is fabricated from a plastic material. The material from which the tube  122  should exhibit sufficient structural rigidity so that the at least one tube does not weaken to an extent such that the liquid could leak from the tube  122  at ambient temperatures as well as the reduced temperatures in a conventional residential freezer. 
         [0084]    A fill line  146  may be provided on the tube  122  to indicate to persons using the invention how much liquid should be placed in the tube  122 . The fill line  146  may be placed in a spaced-apart configuration from the closure mechanism  148  to account for expansion of the liquid placed in the tube  122  when frozen. This configuration thereby minimizes the potential of the closure mechanism failing, which could permit the liquid to leak from the tube  122 . 
         [0085]    The tube  122  may be provided with a closure mechanism  148  to maintain the tube  122  in a closed configuration after a liquid is placed therein. In certain embodiments, a zipper-type plastic closure system may be provided on the tube  122  proximate an open end thereof. The zipper-type closure mechanism may be similar to aspects of a closure provided on a ZIPLOC bag. 
         [0086]    Alternatively or additionally, a closure mechanism (not shown) may be placed over the open end of the at least one tube. In certain embodiments, the closure mechanism may include two sections that are pivotally mounted to each other. A fastener may be provided opposite the pivotal attachment end to maintain the sections in a closed configuration. 
         [0087]    The frozen snack preparation system may also include an insertion device  160 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 4-6 . The insertion device  160  may facilitate placing the tubes  122  into the stand  120 . The insertion device  160  may also facilitate placing the liquid into the tubes  122 . 
         [0088]    The insertion device may include a cross member  162  from which a plurality of fingers  164  extend. The number of fingers  164  may correspond to the number of receptacles  124  on the stand  120 . 
         [0089]    The fingers  164  may have a length that is less than a length of the tubes  122 . The fingers  164  may have an at least partially cylindrical shape. Forming the fingers  164  with the at least partially cylindrical shape enables the fingers  164  to move the tubes  122  from a collapsed configuration to a partially expanded configuration. Moving the tubes  122  to the partially expanded configuration facilitates positioning the tubes  122  in the stand  120  as well as facilitates placing liquid in the tubes  122 . 
         [0090]    A distal end of the fingers  164  may be curved to minimize the potential of the fingers  164  damaging the tubes  122  as the fingers  164  are inserted into the tubes  122 . Alternatively or additionally, the fingers  164  may have a tapered profile so that the fingers  164  are smaller proximate a distal end thereof. This configuration may enhance the ability to insert the fingers  164  into the tubes  122 . 
         [0091]    The fingers  164  may be in fluid communication with the cross member  162  so that a liquid placed in the cross member  162  flows into the fingers  164  and then into the tubes  122 . In certain embodiments, the cross member  162  includes an upper side that is at least partially open. Forming the cross member  162  with this configuration allows liquid to be poured into the cross member  162  and then directed into the tubes  122  through the fingers  164 . 
         [0092]    The cross member  162  may have a U-shaped profile where an open end is oriented upwardly. The fingers  164  may intersect the cross member  162  proximate a lower portion of the U-shape. 
         [0093]    Alternatively, it is possible to substantially close the cross member  162  except for an aperture  166  extending from an upper surface thereof as illustrated in the figures. The liquid may be poured into the cross member  162  through the aperture  166 . Depending on factors such as the size of the aperture  166  and the rate at which it is desired to fill the tubes  122 , a funnel (not shown) may be placed in the aperture  166  to reduce the potential of liquid being spilled during the filling process. 
         [0094]    An interior region of the cross member  162  may include at least one divider that extends from proximate the aperture  166  to proximate one of the fingers  164 . Since the insertion device  160  is generally symmetrical, each side of the cross member  162  may include two dividers to separate liquid flowing along each side into three liquid flow paths that are each associated with one of the fingers  164 . 
         [0095]    A support  168  may extend from the cross member  162  to the stand  120  to maintain the cross member  162  in a spaced-apart configuration from the top of the stand  120  so that the tops of the tubes  122  are not crushed when the insertion device  160  is placed on the stand  120 . 
         [0096]    The insertion device  160  may be fabricated so that it is substantially symmetrical. For example, the insertion device  160  may have front and back sides that are shaped substantially similar to each other. Forming the insertion device  160  with this configuration enables the front and back sides to be molded in a single mold cavity and then attached to each other after the molding process is completed. 
         [0097]    An alternative embodiment of the frozen snack preparation system, as illustrated at  210  in  FIGS. 7-9 . Similar to the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 1-3 , the frozen snack preparation system  210  may include a stand  220  to hold at least one tube  222  during a filling process in which a liquid is placed in the at least one tube  222 . 
         [0098]    The stand  220  may have a generally upright configuration as illustrated in the figures. Providing the stand  220  with an upright configuration enables the at least one tube  222  to be held in an upright configuration to facilitate placing a liquid into the at least one tube  222 . 
         [0099]    The stand  220  includes at least one receptacle  224  in which the at least one tube  222  may be positioned prior to the filling process. In certain embodiments, the stand  220  may include between two and ten receptacles. In other embodiments, the stand  220  may include six receptacles as illustrated in  FIGS. 4-6 . 
         [0100]    The number of receptacles  224  and the associated arrangement of the receptacles  224  may be selected based upon factors such as the number of tubes it is desired to simultaneously prepare. The receptacles  224  may be oriented in a variety of configurations using the concepts of the invention. One such orientation of the receptacles  224  is generally aligned to form a line. Other possible configurations for the receptacles  224  include an array having more than one line of receptacles  224  such as two lines that each include four receptacles  224 . 
         [0101]    In certain embodiments, the receptacle  224  may have a generally cylindrical or elliptical shape that corresponds to the filled shape of the tube  222 . The receptacle  224  may extend substantially along a length of the tube  222 . While such a configuration would enhance the support provided to the tube  222 , it may increase the cost to manufacture the stand  220 . In configurations where the tube  222  extends substantially along a length of the tube  222 , a portion of the receptacle  224  may be transparent to view the level of liquid in the tube  222  during the filling process. 
         [0102]    The stand  220  may include a lower tube support  230  and a back tube support  234 . A height of the back tube support  234  may be selected based upon a length of the tube  222  that is being used in conjunction with the stand  220  so that when a lower end of the tube  222  is placed proximate the lower tube support  230 , an upper end of the tube  222  extends to proximate the upper end of the back tube support  234 . 
         [0103]    In certain embodiments, the upper end of the tube  222  extends above the upper end of the back tube support  234 . Using such a configuration enables a person using the invention to view the level of the liquid in the tube  222  to prevent the tube  222  from being overfilled. As is discussed in more detail below, the placement of the back tube support  234  may enable a fill line on the tube  222  to be viewed during the filling process. This configuration also enables a person using the invention to grasp the upper end of the tube  222  and then close the open end of the tube  222 . 
         [0104]    The lower tube support  130  may be substantially flat or may include at least one recess formed therein that is indicative of the location at which the bottoms of the tubes  222  should be placed during the filling process. The lower tube support  230  thereby supports the tubes  222  during the filling process so that the tubes  222  can all be filled at the same time. 
         [0105]    The stand  220  may be fabricated so that a length and/or depth of the stand  220  is greater proximate a lower end thereof as illustrated in the figures. Forming the stand  220  with this configuration enhances the stability of the stand and thereby reduces the potential of the stand being tipped over during the filling process because if the stand  220  is tipped over during the filling process, the liquid being placed in the tubes  222  could spill. 
         [0106]    The stand  220  may be fabricated from a variety of materials using the concepts of the invention. The materials used to fabricate the stand  220  should resist degradation during use as well have sufficient strength so that the stand is not likely to break during use. 
         [0107]    Depending on a variety of factors such as the length of the tubes  222  and the material from which the tubes  222  are fabricated, at least one intermediate support  240  may be provided. 
         [0108]    The intermediate support  240  may have the receptacles  224  formed therein. Such a configuration provides support to the upper end of the tubes  222  while the tubes  222  are being filled with liquid. In certain embodiments, the receptacle  224  is an aperture formed in the upper tube support  32 . 
         [0109]    The at least one intermediate support  240  may be positioned along at least one of the front side and the back side of the tube  222 . The intermediate support  240  may also partially extend around a surface of the tubes  122 . In certain embodiments, the at least one intermediate support  240  includes at least one recess formed therein that substantially conform to a shape of the tubes  222  when filled with liquid. 
         [0110]    The at least one intermediate support  240  may be integrally formed with the other portions of the stand  220 . Alternatively, the at least one intermediate support  240  may be formed separately from the other portions of the stand  220  and then attached to the stand  220  in the manufacturing process. 
         [0111]    It is possible to mount the at least one intermediate support  240  in a movable configuration with respect to the back tube support  234  to adjust a distance between the lower tube support  230  and the at least one intermediate support  240 . Such a configuration would enable the invention to be used with tubes  22  having different lengths. 
         [0112]    Alternatively or additionally to providing a fill line on the tube  222 , a fill line may be provided on one of the components of the stand  220 . The fill line thereby enables a person using the invention to see the level of liquid being placed into the tube  222  to thereby avoid overfilling the tube  222 . 
         [0113]    The tube  222  may have a generally elongated configuration having an opening proximate an end thereof. Forming the tube  222  with this configuration enables the tube  222  to be held in a person&#39;s hand when the product placed in the tube  222  is being consumed. It is possible for the tube  222  to have other configurations. Examples of such alternative configurations include square, triangular and circular. 
         [0114]    In certain embodiments, the tube  222  may be formed with a generally cylindrical configuration. In other embodiments, the tube  222  may be formed with a rectangular configuration. 
         [0115]    The tube  222  may be formed with a variety of capacities depending on the type of product that is desired to be placed into the tube  222  as well as the intended consumer. In certain embodiments, the tube  222  may have a capacity of up to about 200 milliliters. In other embodiments, the tube  222  may have a capacity of between about 20 milliliters and about 150 milliliters. 
         [0116]    The tube  222  may be fabricated from a variety of materials using the concepts of the invention. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the tube  222  may be formed from a transparent material so that a person using the invention could view the level of liquid in the tube  222 . 
         [0117]    While it is possible to form the tube  222  from a generally rigid material that retains a cylindrical or elliptical profile when not filed with liquid, the tube  222  may be fabricated from a flexible material that collapses when the tube  222  is not filled with liquid. Providing the tube  222  with a flexible configuration enables the tube  222  to be collapsed during the distribution process prior to use. 
         [0118]    In certain embodiments, the tube  222  is fabricated from a plastic material. The material from which the tube  222  should exhibit sufficient structural rigidity so that the at least one tube does not weaken to an extent such that the liquid could leak from the tube  222  at ambient temperatures as well as the reduced temperatures in a conventional residential freezer. 
         [0119]    A fill line  246  may be provided on the tube  222  to indicate to persons using the invention how much liquid should be placed in the tube  222 . The fill line  246  may be placed in a spaced-apart configuration from the closure mechanism  248  to account for expansion of the liquid placed in the tube  222  when frozen. This configuration thereby minimizes the potential of the closure mechanism failing, which could permit the liquid to leak from the tube  222 . 
         [0120]    The tube  222  may be provided with a closure mechanism  248  to maintain the tube  222  in a closed configuration after a liquid is placed therein. In certain embodiments, a zipper-type plastic closure system may be provided on the tube  222  proximate an open end thereof. The zipper-type closure mechanism may be similar to aspects of a closure provided on a ZIPLOC bag. 
         [0121]    Alternatively or additionally, a closure mechanism (not shown) may be placed over the open end of the at least one tube. In certain embodiments, the closure mechanism may include two sections that are pivotally mounted to each other. A fastener may be provided opposite the pivotal attachment end to maintain the sections in a closed configuration. 
         [0122]    The frozen snack preparation system may also include an insertion device  260 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 4-6 . The insertion device  260  may facilitate placing the tubes  222  into the stand  220 . The insertion device  260  may also facilitate placing the liquid into the tubes  222 . 
         [0123]    The insertion device may include a cross member  262  from which a plurality of fingers  264  extend. The number of fingers  264  may correspond to the number of receptacles  224  on the stand  220 . 
         [0124]    The fingers  264  may have a length that is less than a length of the tubes  222 . The fingers  264  may have an at least partially cylindrical shape. Forming the fingers  264  with the at least partially cylindrical shape enables the fingers  264  to move the tubes  222  from a collapsed configuration to a partially expanded configuration. Moving the tubes  222  to the partially expanded configuration facilitates positioning the tubes  222  in the stand  220  as well as facilitates placing liquid in the tubes  222 . 
         [0125]    A distal end of the fingers  264  may be curved to minimize the potential of the fingers  264  damaging the tubes  222  as the fingers  264  are inserted into the tubes  222 . Alternatively or additionally, the fingers  264  may have a tapered profile so that the fingers  264  are smaller proximate a distal end thereof. This configuration may enhance the ability to insert the fingers  264  into the tubes  222 . 
         [0126]    The fingers  264  may be in fluid communication with the cross member  262  so that a liquid placed in the cross member  262  flows into the fingers  264  and then into the tubes  222 . In certain embodiments, the cross member  262  includes an upper side that is at least partially open. Forming the cross member  262  with this configuration allows liquid to be poured into the cross member  262  and then directed into the tubes  222  through the fingers  264 . 
         [0127]    The cross member  262  may have a U-shaped profile where an open end is oriented upwardly. The fingers  264  may intersect the cross member  262  proximate a lower portion of the U-shape. 
         [0128]    Alternatively, it is possible to substantially close the cross member  262  except for an aperture  166  extending from an upper surface thereof as illustrated in the figures. The liquid may be poured into the cross member  162  through the aperture  166 . Depending on factors such as the size of the aperture  266  and the rate at which it is desired to fill the tubes  222 , a funnel (not shown) may be placed in the aperture  266  to reduce the potential of liquid being spilled during the filling process. 
         [0129]    An interior region of the cross member  262  may include at least one divider that extends from proximate the aperture  266  to proximate one of the fingers  264 . Since the insertion device  260  is generally symmetrical, each side of the cross member  262  may include two dividers to separate liquid flowing along each side into three liquid flow paths that are each associated with one of the fingers  264 . 
         [0130]    A support  268  may extend from the cross member  262  to the stand  220  to maintain the cross member  262  in a spaced-apart configuration from the top of the stand  220  so that the tops of the tubes  222  are not crushed when the insertion device  260  is placed on the stand  220 . 
         [0131]    The insertion device  260  may be fabricated so that it is substantially symmetrical. For example, the insertion device  260  may have front and back sides that are shaped substantially similar to each other. Forming the insertion device  260  with this configuration enables the front and back sides to be molded in a single mold cavity and then attached to each other after the molding process is completed. 
         [0132]    In addition to using the frozen snack preparation system in conjunction with a liquid that has been colored and/or flavored, it is possible to fill the tubes with alternative materials. Examples of these alternative materials include soft drinks, fruit juices, gelatin mixes and yogurt. 
         [0133]    In the preceding detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In this regard, directional terminology, such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “back,” “leading,” “trailing,” etc., is used with reference to the orientation of the Figure(s) being described. Because components of embodiments can be positioned in a number of different orientations, the directional terminology is used for purposes of illustration and is in no way limiting. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The preceding detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. 
         [0134]    It is contemplated that features disclosed in this application, as well as those described in the above applications incorporated by reference, can be mixed and matched to suit particular circumstances. Various other modifications and changes will be apparent to those of ordinary skill.