Joint in a Beam

An internal hinge (or joint) can be inserted within a beam to create a Gerber beam or other articulated structures.

Creating an Internal Hinge

1. Select the internal hinge tool from the toolbar
2. Click on a beam at the location where you want the hinge
3. The beam is automatically split at that point with a hinge

Behavior

At an internal hinge:

• Moment is zero (no moment transfer)
• Shear force is continuous
• Normal force is continuous
• Rotation discontinuity is allowed

Use Cases

Internal hinges are commonly used for:

• Gerber beams (cantilever with suspended span)
• Three-hinged arches
• Articulated structures
• Modeling construction joints

Watch demo - Inserting an internal hinge