Structural Theory Simulations

A collection of interactive 3D visualizations and simulations to help you master concepts in structural theory.

Analysis of Statically Determinate Structures - Theory & Concepts

Statically determinate structures can be completely analyzed—meaning all support reactions and internal member forces can be calculated—using only ...

Shear & Moment Diagram Generator

Simply supported beam with a single concentrated point load.

10 kN

R_A

= 5.0

R_B

= 5.0

10 m

Point Load Magnitude (

P

): 10 kN

Load Position (

x

from left): 5 m

Shear Force Diagram ( $V$ )

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Bending Moment Diagram ( $M$ )Max: 25.0 kN·m

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Cables and Arches - Theory & Concepts

Cables and arches are specialized structural elements that carry loads primarily through axial tension (cables) or axial compression (arches). Beca...

Cable Loading Simulation

Load Position (horizontal)

Load Magnitude (affects sag)

Notice how the perfectly flexible cable forms a funicular shape of two straight segments under a single point load.

Influence Lines for Determinate Structures - Theory & Concepts

An **Influence Line** is a graph that represents the variation of a reaction, shear, moment, or deflection at a specific point in a structure as a ...

Influence Line Generator

Beam Configuration

Beam Length: 10 m

Target Section (POI) at x = 5.0 m

Add Elements

Manage Supports

pin0.0m

roller10.0m

Manage Hinges

No hinges added.

Deflection of Structures - Theory & Concepts

Deflection is the displacement of a structural element under load. Controlling deflection is critical for ensuring the serviceability (usability an...

Adjust the load position to see how the M/EI diagram becomes the load for the Conjugate Beam.

Real Beam (Point Load)

Conjugate Beam (M/EI Load)

Displacement Methods of Analysis - Theory & Concepts

In contrast to the Force Method (where redundant *forces* are the primary unknowns), the Displacement Method treats the joint *displacements* (rota...

Moment Distribution Interactive Lab

Adjust the initial Fixed End Moments (FEM) and the Distribution Factor at Joint B for a two-span continuous beam (fixed at A and C). Watch how the unbalanced moment at B is iteratively distributed and carried over.

Distribution Factor DF_BA: 0.50(DF_BC = 0.50)

FEM_AB

FEM_BA

FEM_BC

FEM_CB

Joint	A	B		C
Member	AB	BA	BC	CB
DF	0	0.50	0.50	0

* Check Equilibrium at B: + = NaN

Approximate Analysis of Indeterminate Structures - Theory & Concepts

Before performing complex computer analysis (like Matrix Stiffness Methods), engineers often use approximate methods to quickly estimate member for...