Composite structure and method of forming same

摘要

A method of forming a composite structure (60) comprises the steps of forming a radially inner portion (64) of a preform with braided reinforcing fibers extending substantially transverse to an axis of the preform and forming a radially outer portion (68) of the preform circumscribing the inner portion with braided reinforcing fibers extending substantially parallel to the axis of the preform. The preform is heated and consolidated in a mold into the composite structure. The composite structure has braided reinforcing fibers extending throughout a radially inner portion (60) substantially transverse to an axis of the structure along which the structure is subject to splitting to resist splitting of the composite structure along the axis and braided reinforcing fibers extending throughout a radially outer portion (68) substantially parallel to the axis to resist bending of the composite structure. The composite structure is particularly suitable for manufacturing a bone plate.