Patent Publication Number: US-7900471-B2

Title: Pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     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. 
     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. 
     Currently, applicant is not aware of any small, individual pouches or bags of ice that are commercially available for individual use and consumption. If such a product was commercially available, it would satisfy a present need and would allow ice to be distributed in a safer and healthier fashion. 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. 
     Now a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air has been invented which is capable of providing an individual serving of ice to a given person. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Briefly, this invention relates to a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air. The pre-packaged, flexible container includes a first member having a hermetically sealed outer periphery which encloses a cavity. The cavity has a volume of less than about 25 cubic inches. The pre-packaged, flexible container also includes ice and air contained within the cavity. The ice is present as an individual piece or as multiple pieces. The remainder of the cavity is occupied by air. The air fills at least about 50% of the volume of the cavity. Furthermore, the container, ice and air have a combined weight of less than about 5 ounces. 
     In another embodiment, the pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air includes a first member folded upon itself to form a first folded end, a pair of second ends, a pair of side edges, and an outer periphery. A seal is formed about at least a portion of the outer periphery to completely enclose a cavity therein. The cavity has a volume of less than about 20 cubic inches. The pre-packaged, flexible container also includes ice and air contained within the cavity. The ice is present as an individual piece or as multiple pieces. The remainder of the cavity is occupied by air. The air fills more than 50% of the volume of the cavity. Furthermore, the container, ice and air have a combined weight of less than about 4 ounces. 
     In a third embodiment, the pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air includes a first member and a second member aligned so as to have a coterminuous outer periphery with a cavity formed therein. The cavity has a volume of less than about 20 cubic inches. A seal is formed about the outer periphery which bonds the first member to the second member and completely encloses the cavity. The pre-packaged, flexible container also includes ice and air contained within the cavity. The ice is present as an individual piece or as multiple pieces. The remainder of the cavity is occupied by air. The air fills at least about 50% of the volume of the cavity. Furthermore, the container, ice and air have a combined weight of less than about 3 ounces. 
     The general object of this invention is to provide a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air. A more specific object of this invention is to provide an individual, pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air which has a weight of less than about 5 ounces. 
     Another object of this invention is to provide a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air that has a tear strip to facilitate easy opening of the container. 
     A further object of this invention is to provide a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air which is sufficient to cool one individual glass or cup of beverage. 
     Still another object of this invention is to provide a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air which is easy to distribute in an efficient manner. 
     Still further, an object of this invention is to provide a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air which is less susceptible to contamination once the container is opened since the amount of ice is sufficient for only a single drink. 
     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 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of first and second members used to construct a flexible container capable of holding ice and air. 
         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. 
         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. 
         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. 
         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. 
         FIG. 6  is a front view of a rectangular first member. 
         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. 
         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. 
         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. 
         FIG. 10  is a front view of a container having a triangular shape with a seal extending completely about its outer periphery. 
         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. 
         FIG. 12  is a flow diagram of a method of forming a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air. 
         FIG. 13  is a flow diagram of an alternative method of forming a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air. 
         FIG. 14  is a flow diagram of still another method of forming a pre-packaged, flexible container of ice and air. 
         FIG. 15  is a flow diagram of a method of serving a drink to a person. 
         FIG. 16  is a side view of a drinking vessel. 
         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. 
         FIG. 18  is a flow diagram of an alternative method of serving a drink to a person. 
         FIG. 19  is a flow diagram of still another method of serving a drink to a person. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     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. 
     The temperature of the ice  16  should be about 320 Fahrenheit (F) or lower. By “Fahrenheit” it is meant a temperature scale that registers the freezing point of water as 32° F. and the boiling point as 212° 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° F. The air  18  can be at a temperature above 32° 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. 
     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 1 -X 1 , a transverse central axis Y 1 -Y 1 , and a vertical central axis Z 1 -Z 1 . The second member  12  also has a thickness t 1  measured along the vertical central axis Z 1 -Z 1 . 
     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. 
     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. 
     The second member  12  has a length l 1  and a width w 1 . The dimension of the length l 1  and the dimension of the width w 1  should each be equal to or less than about 5 inches. Desirably, the dimension of the length l 1  and the dimension of the width w 1  should each be equal to or less than about 4 inches. More desirably, the dimension of the length l 1  and the dimension of the width w 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 1 =w 1 . Furthermore, since the first and second members,  10  and  12  respectively, are of equal size, l=l 1 =w=w 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 1  and width w and w 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. 
     The first member  10  has a thickness t and the second member  12  has a thickness t 1 . The thickness t can be greater than, equal to or be less than the thickness t 1 . Desirably, the thickness t of the first member  10  is equal to the thickness t 1  of the second member  12 . The thicknesses t and t 1  can vary in dimension. The thicknesses t and t 1  can range from between about 0.5 millimeter to about 10 millimeters. Desirably, the thicknesses t and t 1  can range from between about 1 millimeter to about 5 millimeters. More desirably, the thicknesses t and t 1  can range from between about 1.5 millimeters to about 4 millimeters. Even more desirably, the thicknesses t and t 1  can range from between about 2 millimeters to about 3 millimeters. Most desirably, the thicknesses t and t 1  are less than about 3 millimeters. 
     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. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 2-4 , the flexible container  14  has a longitudinal central axis X 2 -X 2 , a transverse central axis Y 2 -Y 2  and a vertical central axis Z 2 -Z 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. 
     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 . 
     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. 
     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. 
     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. 
     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. 
     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. 
     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. 
     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 . 
     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 1.01325×10 5  Pascal&#39;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. 
     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° F. More desirably, the air  18  that is introduced into the cavity  26  is at or below 32° F. Even more desirably, the air  18  that is introduced into the cavity  26  ranges from between about 10° F. and about 32° F. 
     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. 
     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. 
     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 3 -X 3  and a transverse central axis Y 3 -Y 3 . The flexible container  14 ′ also has a length l 3  and a width w 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. 
     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 ′. 
     The tear strip  30  can be positioned anywhere along the length l 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 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 . 
     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. 
     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 1 . The distance d 1  of the tear strip  30  can vary but typically is equal to or less than about 0.125 inches. Desirably, the distance d 1  of the tear strip  30  is equal to or less than about 0.1 inches. More desirably, the distance d 1  of the tear strip  30  is equal to or less than about 0.05 inches. 
     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 . 
     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 4 -X 4  and a transverse central axis Y 4 -Y 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 4 , and a width w 4 . The length l 4  can vary in dimension but desirably is equal to or less than about 12 inches. Desirably, the length l 4  is less than about 11 inches. More desirably, the length l 4  is less than about 10 inches. The width w 4  can also vary in dimension but is equal to or less than about 5 inches in dimension. Desirably, the width w 4  is less than about 4 inches. More desirably, the width w 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. 
     Referring to  FIG. 7 , the first member  46  is folded in half about its transverse central axis Y 4 -Y 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 5  and a thickness t 4 . The length l 5  can be equal to or be less than about 5 inches. Desirably, the length l 5  is equal to or less than about 4 inches. More desirable, the length l 5  is equal to or less than about 3 inches. The thickness t 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 4  is equal to or less than about 5 mm. More desirably, the thickness t 4  can be equal to or less than about 4 mm. Even more desirably, the thickness t 4  is equal to or less than about 3 mm. 
     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. 
     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. 
     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 . 
     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 5 -X 5 , a transverse central axis Y 5 -Y 5  and a vertical central axis Z 5 -Z 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. 
     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. 
     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 
     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 . 
     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 1  and t 2  respectively. The thicknesses t 1  and t 2  can be the same dimension or be of a different dimension. The thicknesses t 1  and t 2  should be less than about 10 mm. Desirably, each of the thicknesses t 1  and t 2  is less than about 5 mm. More desirably, each of the thicknesses t 1  and t 2  is less than about 4 mm. Even more desirably, each of the thicknesses t 1  and t 2  is less than about 3 mm. Most desirably, each of the thicknesses t 1  and t 2  is less than about 2 mm. 
     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 . 
     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 . 
     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 . 
     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. 
     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. 
     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. 
     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. 
     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. 
     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 . 
     The temperature of the air  18  within the cavity  26  can vary. The temperature of the air  18  can be below 32° F., be approximately equal to 32° F., or be above 32° F. Desirably, the temperature of the air  18  within the cavity is at or below 32° 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. 
     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 . 
     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. 
     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 . 
     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 . 
     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 . 
     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. 
     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 
     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 . 
     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. 
     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. 
     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. 
     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. 
     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° F. Desirably, the ice  16  is at a temperature of less than about 32° F. More desirably, the ice  16  is at a temperature below 32° 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. 
     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. 
     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° F. to about room temperature. Desirably, the temperature of the air  18  within the flexible container  14  will range from between about 10° F. to about 35° F. More desirably, the temperature of the air  18  within the flexible container  14  will be about 32° F. Even more desirably, the temperature of the air  18  within the flexible container  14  will be less than or below about 32° F. 
     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. 
     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. 
     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. 
     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. 
     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. 
     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. 
     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.