Composite aerospace structure with integrated conveyance element

摘要

A composite structure (10) for aerospace applications includes a structural member (11) having multiple composite layers (12) providing a longitudinally extending cavity (13). A conveyance element (14) is arranged between and integral with the layers (12). In one example, the structural member (11) provides a gas turbine engine duct (30) or an airframe component (37). A composite structural assembly is manufactured by providing a first composite layer (12) on a form that corresponds to a cavity (13). A second form, which may be a conveyance element (14) in one example, is positioned along the first layer (12). A second composite layer (12) is laid onto the second form and the first composite layer (12) to provide a composite structural member (10) with an integrated conveyance element (14).