Online frame calculator for 2D structural analysis.
NextForm is a free online frame calculator for 2D planar beam-column models. Use it to define nodes and members, assign support restraints, apply joint and member loads, solve load cases, and review reactions, axial force, shear force, bending moment, and displacement response in the browser.
Browser-basedOpen the workspace, build the model, and review results without installing desktop software.
Analysis-firstFocus on supports, loads, diagrams, and model interpretation before detailed design checks.
NextForm Workspace
Start Modelling
Build, solve, and inspect a 2D frame from one workspace.
Use the visual canvas for geometry, the bottom tabs for exact data, and the result tools for reactions, force diagrams, and displacement checks.
The workspace is intended for 2D line-member frame behaviour. Members connect at nodes, supports are idealized as roller, pinned, or fixed restraints, and applied loads are interpreted through the selected directions and load cases. Treat the output as an analytical model result, not as a substitute for member design, connection design, buckling checks, or code compliance.
Use Cases
Use NextForm when you search for a frame calculator
The calculator is designed for quick structural frame analysis of portal frames, beam-column arrangements, braced bays, cantilevers, support studies, and classroom examples. It helps you move from a sketch of the analytical model to reaction values, internal force diagrams, and deflected shape without installing desktop software.
Workflow
Typical workflow
1
Define nodes and members to build the frame geometry you want to study.
2
Add realistic support conditions and apply node or member loads.
3
Run the solve and switch between result views to interpret the structural response.
Result Review
How to judge the output
Start by checking support reactions against the applied loads. Then compare axial, shear, and moment diagrams with the expected load path. Finally, inspect displacement shape to confirm the model is stable and the restraints behave as intended. If any diagram shape looks surprising, revisit the supports, member connectivity, load direction, and units before using peak values.
Outputs
Analysis results available after solving
ReactionsCheck support force and moment reactions for equilibrium.
Axial forceReview tension and compression paths through members.
Shear forceInspect transverse force variation across each member.
Bending momentCompare peak and end moments from the selected load case.
DisplacementConfirm deflected shape, sway tendency, and relative stiffness.
FAQ
Frame calculator FAQs
What does a frame calculator solve?
It solves the structural response of a planar frame model, including support reactions, member axial force, shear force, bending moment, and displacement.
Can it compare pinned and fixed supports?
Yes. Change a support restraint, solve again, and compare the reactions, moment diagram, and deflected shape.
Is it the same as final structural design?
No. The calculator helps with analysis and interpretation. Member design, connection checks, stability checks, and code compliance still need independent engineering review.
Engineering reminder: use the app as a modelling and review aid. Results should be independently checked and verified by a competent person before they are used for design, construction, or safety-critical decisions.
