- FEMur -
Finite Element Method universal resource

One-Dimensional Beam Element

A beam element is defined as a long, slender member (one dimension is much larger than the other two) that is subjected to vertical loads and moments, which produce vertical displacements and rotations. The degrees of freedom for a beam element are a vertical displacement and a rotation at each node, as opposed to only an horizontal displacement at each node for a truss element.

	Element Definition
	Assumptions
	Sign Convention (Solution Interpretation)
	Element Stiffness Matrix Formulation
	Solution Characteristics
	Element Rigid Body Modes
	Example Problem
	References