| abstract |
The present invention provides a multi-preform assembly (20) having nested preforms (3040). The preforms (3040) are held together by an interference fit. The interference fit is provided by the friction between the preforms (3040) that occurs when the inner preforms (40, 42, 44) are inserted into the outer preforms (30, 32, 34, 44). At least one preform (3040, 3096, 30, 40, 96) may have ribs (48) extending radially toward the other preform (3040, 3096, 30, 40, 96). Ribs (48) provide concentricity and interference to hold preforms (3040) together during subsequent operations. The preform (3040) can later be blow molded to provide a bag-in-bottle (92) or similar container. |