StructureTool2D © Read Me

StructureTool2D © is a structural analysis and learning application for beams, frames, and trusses. The program uses Excel-based input templates to define structural geometry, support conditions, member properties, and loading, then performs analysis and generates plots and output files to help users study structural response.

The application currently supports two main workflows:

A-B: Structure Data & Stiffness Method

This workflow is used for the direct analysis of beam, frame, and truss structures using the stiffness method. The program reads the structure data, discretizes members where needed, forms element and global stiffness relationships, and computes nodal displacements, support reactions, and member actions. It also provides graphical output for structure geometry, deflected shape, and internal force diagrams.

C-D: Unit Load Method / Force Method

This workflow expands the educational scope of the tool by supporting concepts related to the Unit Load Method (ULM) and the Force Method (FM). These features are intended to help users study structural behavior, compatibility, redundants, and displacement evaluation in a more instructional and visual format.

Typical Use

Download the structure data template.
Enter the structural model, supports, properties, and loading in the Excel file.
Save the completed file.
Upload the file through the web interface.
Run the desired analysis and review the generated plots and output workbook.

Included Plots and Outputs

undeformed geometry
deformed shape
applied member and nodal loads
support reactions
axial force, shear force, and bending moment diagrams
truss member axial-force results
selected instructional outputs related to the ULM / FM workflow

Important Notes

Use the truss option only for valid truss input files.
For beam and frame problems, select a suitable discretization level when distributed or varying loads are present.
Review all plotted results carefully, especially when using display options for scaling, deformation, and force diagrams.
Always confirm that the entered units, loading, support conditions, and member properties are consistent.

Educational Purpose: StructureTool2D © is intended primarily as an educational and instructional tool. It is designed to help students and users better understand modeling assumptions, load idealization, stiffness-based analysis, internal force development, structural response, and related engineering concepts.

User Responsibility and Caution

Users are expected to exercise appropriate caution, sound engineering judgment, and independent verification when preparing input data, interpreting analysis results, and drawing conclusions from the software output. All results should be checked for reasonableness and consistency with expected structural behavior.

Disclaimer

This software is provided for educational use, demonstration, and preliminary study purposes only. Although care may be taken in its development, no warranty or guarantee is given that the application is free from errors, omissions, numerical limitations, modeling assumptions, coding defects, or user-input effects. The author and distributors accept no liability for any loss, damage, claim, or consequence arising from the use of the software or from reliance on its results.

Accordingly, StructureTool2D © must not be used as the sole basis for final engineering design, professional certification, construction decisions, or safety-critical assessment without independent checking and verification by a qualified engineer.