3 MasterFrame PDF

3 MasterFrame: Plane, Grillage and Space Frame Analysis
3.1 Getting Started with MasterFrame

3.1.1 The ABC’s of using MasterFrame
MasterFrame is a program for the generation and

analysis of plane frame, grillage or space frame
structural models based on two node beam element
members. To access the program, from the
MasterSeries Start Up screen select Frames>
MasterFrame: Analysis Design Drafting.
From any structural model developed the Engineer may obtain member forces, nodal
displacement and support reactions, which can be presented in both a tabular and
graphical format. Information from the model can also then be used in other
MasterSeries programs for the integrated design, drafting and detailing.
The basic steps involved in using MasterFrame are as follows:
Generate the frame geometry

Define member properties, orientation
Define structural loading
Define supports conditions
Define loading cases and combinations
Define job references and project title
Analyse the frame
View and print results
MasterFrame is a very powerful and flexible system, with the result that the key steps
indicated above can be carried out in any order you decide. Obviously it is firstly
necessary to generate some structural geometry before subsequent loads, properties
and conditions can be applied to members and nodes. During the course of creating
your structural model it is commonplace that changes to, e.g. the geometry or loading,
may be required. The architecture of MasterFrame makes such changes extremely
easy. Do not expect prompting for the next step. Remember, with the MasterSeries
and in MasterFrame you are the Master!
This manual is designed to help you make MasterFrame work better for you ad to
rapidly exploit its powerful features. So please take some time to look over its contents
and then use it as a reference to assist you as you work.
3 MasterFrame 3-1
This manual should be used in conjunction with the ShowMeHow demonstration and
training videos, which form an essential part of the MasterSeries. As you study each of
the sections, references are made to relevant ShowMeHow videos.
The first fundamental principle in understanding the MasterFrame program interface is
that there are two main menus, namely:
• MasterFrame [Main Menu]
• MasterFrame [Main Editor]
3.1.2 The MasterFrame Main Menu

The MasterFrame Main menu is displayed when an existing MasterFrame file is
opened and also when the Main Editor menu is exited. MasterFrame also
automatically returns to the Main menu after Analysing the frame. The Main menu will
provide most of the functions you will require after the generation and analysis of the
structural model.
The Bar Menu in the MasterFrame [Main Menu] provides the following drop-down
menus.
File Saving and opening files, saving defaults and exiting MasterFrame.
Edit Move to the MasterFrame [Main Editor].
Data Access the View and Print Frame Data screen and print the frame geometry
3.15.1 The Data Menu
Analyse Analyse the frame
3.14 Analysing the Frame
Output View Tabular Output, Print Tabular Output and View Graphical Output to
view and print shear force, bending moment and deflected shape diagrams.
3.15.2 The Output Menu
Design Move to MasterSeries integrated steel, concrete, connections, composite

beam or timber design programs.
Drafting Move to MasterCAD for GA Drawings and 3D Solid Model Generation
10 MasterCAD for General Frames
3 MasterFrame 3-2
Dynamic Move to the MasterFrame Dynamic analysis program to determine
natural frequencies and mode shapes. Time domain loading, base acceleration
(spectral loading), and periodic (vibration) loading.
9 MasterFrame Dynamic Analysis
Export Export the current structure to an MXF file format for use with
MasterSteel, the MasterSeries steelwork detailing program. Also export to AutoCAD
DXF, Multi-Steel SXF, Strucad SNF, X-Steel DSTV 96 and KISS KSS file formats.
Options Delete any existing Dynamic Analysis data or MasterCAD data for this
frame
Help Move to MasterFrame Help and the ShowMeHow videos.
2.3 The MasterSeries Help System
3.1.3 The MasterFrame Edit Menu
The various functions for developing the structural model are available from the Main
Editor menu. To access the MasterFrame Main menu from the Editor, select File> Exit
MasterFrame Editor.
File Saving, opening and re-loading files, printing the frame and exiting the editor.
3D-Model Provides basic member editing and 3D frame creation tools. Editing job
references and loading cases. Provides access to the advanced analysis features
such as notional loads, p-delta, coefficient of thermal expansion and density for self-
weight.
3.8.2 The Cases Menu
Geometry Edit, move, rotate, insert and delete nodes and members and anything to
do with geometry and its creation
3.3.3 The Nodes Menu
Viewing Create and edit frame views and member groups
3.3.4 The Members Menu
Properties Specify the material properties, section size, orientation and any special
properties of each member
3 MasterFrame 3-3
3.7 The Nodal Information Menu
Loads Apply a wide range of loads including gravity area, patch and line as well as edit
the load cases and view the load diagrams
3.10 The Duplicate Menu

Restraints Create and edit nodal and base restraints and specify plastic hinges and
partial fixity setting.
3.11 The Add Frame Menu

FE Editor Create and edit FE surfaces and any other tools required to prepare the
frame for FE analysis
Options General geometry, 3D model and analysis options

3.12 The Options Menu
Analyse Save, analyse the frame and exit to the MasterFrame [Main Menu]
Dynamic Save and move to the dynamic analysis editing area
Help Move to MasterFrame Help and the ShowMeHow videos
2.3 The MasterSeries Help System
3.1.4 Co-ordinate System, Sign Convention, Units and Terms

Node
A node is a point in a structure. There are a minimum number of nodes that are
essential to define a specific structure, e.g. a single span beam requires a minimum of
two nodes, however, a larger number of nodes could be used if necessary.
Member
A member is a straight uniform, tapered or haunched part of a structure connecting two
nodes, n1 and n2. Node n1 always refers to the smaller node number, whilst node n2
always refers to the larger node number. A member is defined by the numbers of the
two nodes that it connects, in the order n1 to n2.
Global System of Co-ordinates
The system of co-ordinates used in defining the structure as a whole. The Global X-
axis is horizontal and acts positively towards the right. The Global Y-axis is vertical and
acts positively upward. The Global Z-axis is perpendicular to the XY plane and acts
positively into the screen.
Local System of Co-ordinates
The system of co-ordinates is used to define the signs of the internal forces and any
loads acting normal to the member. It is sometimes known as the member system of
co-ordinates.
3 MasterFrame 3-4
The local x-axis is along the member, and acts from node n1 towards n2.
The local y-axis is obtained by a 90 degree anti-clockwise rotation of the local x-axis.
The local z-axis acts perpendicular to the local XY plane and is found by rotating 90
degrees clockwise about the local X axis.
Plane Frame Grillage

The Relationships Between the Global and the Local Systems of Co-ordinates
Please always use the load diagram to confirm the direction of normal to member
loads.
The following diagram illustrates the relationships between the Global and the Local
systems of co-ordinates for plane and grillage frames.
Member Direction Types
Distance along Members

The distances used in defining load positions, haunch dimension and/or design check
requirements are measured along the slope of the member from node n1.
Floating Point Constants
The use of a Floating Point, i.e. the exponential E format, in the Data File, is very useful
in defining the section properties A I and E; e.g., rather than using 205000000 for the
modulus of elasticity of steel, use 205E6. Similarly, use the E-4 and the E-8 to convert
cm2 and cm4 to m2 and m4 respectively. For example, the sectional properties of
"457x191 UB 67 kg/m" are 85.4E-4 m2 for the area of section and 29401E-8 m4 for the
second moment of area.
Units
In order to minimise the risk of error, all input to the program must use metre as the unit
of length, kN as the unit of force and Radians as the unit of rotation.
The program however, is designed to give its output in the following units :
3 MasterFrame 3-5
• mm for the nodal displacements, in the Global X and Y directions; and degrees for
rotation.
• kN for the Axial and Shear Forces;
• kN.m for the Bending and Torsional Moments;
• mm for the Maximum Deflection in the member;
• m for the distances along the member measured from node n1;
• m for the Nodal co-ordinates;
• cm2 for the Cross-Sectional Area;
• cm4 for the Second Moment of Area and the Torsional constant;
• kN/mm2 for the Modulus of Elasticity;
• kN for Total Loads;
• kN/m for Load Intensities;
• mm for Nodal Settlements in the Global X and Y directions; and
• Degrees for Rotational Nodal Movements.
Nodal Deflections
In plane frames, these include the nodal displacements in the Global X and Y
directions, and the nodal rotation about the Z axis. In grillages, the nodal deflections
include the nodal rotation about the X and Z axes along with the vertical displacement
in the Y direction. Please note that for an East-West member the X rotation is a
torsional rotation and the Z rotation is a bending rotation;
Plane Frame Grillage

The Sign Convention for the Nodal Deflections
Member Forces
In addition to the values of the Axial force, the Shear force and the Bending moment at
the ends of each member, the value and position of the maximum Bending moment,
and the value and position of the maximum member deflection are also printed.
3 MasterFrame 3-6
In the output, the maximum member deflection is defined as the maximum deflection
resulting from the local curvature of the member, measured in relation to the straight
line connecting the new nodal positions. This value is generally more relevant than the
absolute deflection, particularly in the case of a multi-storey structure. The following
diagram illustrates the significance and the sign convention used in conjunction with
the maximum member deflection.
The Maximum Member Deflection The Sign Convention (Plane Frames)

(Plane Frames)
In plane and space frames, a positive value for axial force indicates compression, and
a negative value indicates tension. The standard convention is used for the shear force
and the bending moment. However, it should be noted that the latter relates to the
orientation of the member, as shown in the diagram above.
In grillages and space frames, a positive torsional moment indicates an anti-clockwise
torsion as seen when looking down the member from the smaller node number to the
larger node number.
Support Reactions
These are based on the out of balance forces at each
joint. The sign convention for the support reactions is
illustrated in the figure adjacent. This shows the
positive directions for the six global degrees of freedom.
3 MasterFrame 3-7
Pin-Jointed Analysis
With the Pin-Jointed Frame Analysis, the output is considerably more compact than in
the case of the Rigid Frame Analysis. The nodal deflections in the Global X,Y and Z
directions are given using the same sign convention as with rigid frame, but here only
the axial force in each member, together with the axial stress, the length and the type
of member are printed.
As before, a positive value of axial force indicates compression, and a negative value
indicates tension. In all other respects the output is similar to that obtained in the case
of a Rigid Frame Analysis.
3.2 MasterFrame Tool Bar

Using the top tool bar as you work with MasterFrame for Windows helps you to
manipulate the frame view quickly and frame information such as nodal co-ordinates,
loads and support conditions. Familiarity with the various functions in the top tool bar
will increase your productivity in the use of MasterFrame.
Changing the Frame View Orientation

Display the frame in 3D isometric view
Display the frame in front (XY plane) view
Display the frame in side (YZ plane) view
Display the frame in plan (XZ plane) view
Arrows rotate the +- 5 degree increments about the x-x global axis.
Centre button rotates the view by 180o about the x-x axis.
Arrows rotate the +- 5 degree increments about the y-y global axis.
Centre button rotates the view by 180o about the y-y axis.
Arrows rotate the +- 5 degree increments about the z-z global axis.
3 MasterFrame 3-8
Centre button rotates the view by 180o about the z-z axis.
Zooming, Panning and View Filtering

Box Filter
Show the last Zoom
Show the last full frame view
Show the remained of the structure outside the current zoom
Create user defined frame views, e.g. levels, section on grid lines etc.
When in the view of a Level, show the columns beneath this level
Select a user defined frame view from this drop list

Allows user to scroll through the views generated by the Set Frames
Views (Automatic) on the 3D-Menu. Also displays views created by
the user using the tool.
Multi-Select view filters
Display Horizontal members only
Display Vertical members only
Display Inclined members only
Display East/West members only
Display North/South members only
Displaying Frame Information

Draw nodes more prominently
Display X, Y and Z global nodal co-ordinates beside each node point
Display the Node number beside each node point
Display the Member number on each member
Display the member length on each member
Display a section size label on each member
3 MasterFrame 3- 9
Display Beta angle symbols, indicating the major/minor axis
orientation
Draw members in colour, with a single colour used for a common
section size
Display the Frame Load diagram, showing applied loads and loading
cases
Load Diagram Menu, provides information on the nodal coordinates,
loading and restraints on a selected member
Display Frame Statistics, giving useful information such as frame total
weight
Display Member End Release symbols, i.e. pinned ends
Draw the Global XYZ axis at the bottom left of the screen
Draw all Nodal Loading
Display the Static Supports symbol, indicating restrained nodes and

directions of restraint
Display all spring supports
Display all user specified settlements
Displays the Mesh of any Finite Element model
Displays studs
Show beam runs and pattern loading in flat slab construction
Set global colour defaults (drop down menu)
Turn on DirectX to improve the graphics display
3D member profile with light background. Can be used to rapidly

change the appearance of the frame
Sets thickness of frame members in non-3D mode. Once 3D mode is
switched on member size determined by their section specification.
Sets size of foundation pads. 3D mode setting has no effect on this
function
Display Level Numbers
Label columns East/West or North/South
3 MasterFrame 3- 10
General Shortcut Functions
Redo, Undo shortcuts buttons. Will undo any action undertaken since
, the last sub-menu was opened.
General refresh tool that redraws frame and recalculates loading,
including wind and gravity loads. If a FE model is being use this tool
will redraw the mesh. Does not redo the analysis.
3D Member Profile with Hidden Line Removal

Draw member in 3D section profile
Multi-colour shading for 3D member profile. Provides shading for the

frame once in 3D mode
Colour members according to section size in 3D mode
Turn on legend for section sizing

Draw pads
Use MasterCad member cropping to cut the member joints from view
Use MasterCad to draw the end plates at the member joints
Turn on grid lines
Turn on grid line references
Turn on level references
3D Modal Manager Loading Display Tools
Multi-colour shading for area loadings. Uses shading to display load

cases.
Draw area loading per intensity. Use with multi-colour shading for
area loads to display contours of area load.
Draw all selected loads. The loads are selected through the use of
other toolbar functions.
Draw gravity area loading (can be used with multi-colour shading)
3 MasterFrame 3- 11
Draw line loads (can be used with multi-colour shading)
Display values for line loads
Draw patch loads (can be used with multi-colour shading)
Display values for patch loads
Draw wind area loading (can be used with multi-colour shading)
Select wind loading case to be displayed
Show legend for loading
Display Cpe (External Pressure Coefficient) values
Display dynamic pressure values
Display wind zone
Main Views and Rotating the Frame
The controls in the left hand side of the top tool bar provides various options for rotating
the frame and displaying the main frame views
3 MasterFrame 3- 12
Mouse Functions
1. Right click anywhere on the display and select Mouse Controls Help
2. This displays a list of the mouse controls required to pan, zoom and rotate the view.
To use the dynamic zoom

1. To activate the dynamic crosshairs hold down the left mouse button on the viewing
area. If this does not work try holding down the scroll wheel button. The activation of
this feature can be toggled between these two mouse buttons using the Mouse
Controls Help drop down menu mentioned above.
2. The dynamic cross hairs create two red diagonal lines across the screen with a circle
in the middle as below:
The position of the cursor on the screen

determines the view effects.
1. Inside the circle: There is no effect

2. Top and Bottom sections: control the
zoom function. Top section increases
magnification and vice versa.
3. Side Sections: View rotates to
clockwise or anti-clockwise about the y-y
axis (vertical) depending on the side
selected.
Note: If your mouse has a scroll key, the

scroll function will always control the
zoom function, even if the dynamic cross
hairs are not used.
Additional Dynamic zoom features
To dynamically rotate the frame:

While holding down the Ctrl Key, activate the dynamic cross hairs:
1. Top and bottom sections: Rotate about x-x axis (horizontal)
2. Side Sections: Rotate about y-y axis (Vertical)
To use the dynamic pan:

While holding down the Shift Key, activate the dynamic cross hairs:
3 MasterFrame 3- 13
3. Top and bottom sections: Pan up and down respectively
4. Side Sections: Pan left and right respectively
Note: The easiest way to use the dynamic pan function is to imagine you are dragging
the view window across the frame.
To use the box filter:
1. Press the box filter button.

2. Click on the left mouse button and draw a window to select the filter area.
3. This filters the components to be displayed.
4. Use the scroll wheel or left mouse button to zoom in and out of the selected view
User Defined Frame Views
To define user defined views:
1. Click on the Edit Views button in top bar (tool bar) ;

2. Click on the Add button in the MasterFrame : Multi View Setter;
3. Type in a title for the view, e.g. Bay 2;
4. Draw a box to enclose the required view;
5. Click on one of the four view directions in the MasterFrame : Multi View Setter;
6. Repeat steps 2 to 5 as required for additional views;
7. Click on control box in the MasterFrame : Multi View Setter to close the form;
8. Select the various views from the view combo list in the top bar (tool bar).
Click here to close and save

selected views
Select, add and delete user defined views
Enter View Name
Enter-Coordinates or window desired area
Select view direction for selected view
Toggle Automatic
frame view
generation
3 MasterFrame 3- 14
Displaying Frame information
To display frame information in the graphics area press the appropriate button (a blue
square will appear around the button). To remove the information press the button
again (so the blue square disappears).
To access the viewing options:

• Click on the menu on the
right hand side of the screen,
called viewing options.
• This menu will give access
to all the viewing options such as
font size, labels and material
settings.
• If the menu is not there right
click on viewing area and select
Show Viewing Options to make it
appear
3D Frame Profile View

To display 3D frame profile press the 3D button (to the down position). To remove the
3D profile press the button again (to the up position).
Frame Load Diagram

• To view the frame loads activate the display frame
• load diagram function on the main toolbar
3 MasterFrame 3- 15
Click on the Loads tab at the side of the screen to activate the load diagram menu.
Load Case
Load Groups
Load Label
FE Load Options
display Direction
filters Filters
Click here to open loads

diagram menu
The Frame Load Diagram enables you to view and print the applied loads on the whole
frame. You can select to view loads according to their directions and density (D), load
groups and loading cases.
3.8.1 Load Groups and Loading Cases
3 MasterFrame 3- 16
Nodal and Member Information
This option within the viewing menu enables

you to display nodal information in the
graphics area including supports, nodal
loading and member end releases.
Ticking on the selection displays this

information on the main view.
Frame Statistics
The Frame Statistics enables

you to view statistical
information on your frame,
including the estimated frame
weight. The information should
not be used as a cutting list.
3 MasterFrame 3- 17
3.3 Generation of Structural Geometry
3.3.1 Frame Generation Procedures and Templates
When you start a new file, MasterFrame presents you
with the Frame Generation Menu (The Frame
Wizard). This enables you to select a start-up frame,
which you can tailor to your specific requirements
using very powerful and easy-to-use editing tools.
Remember that it is easier to delete unwanted nodes
and members rather than adding new ones.
MasterFrame : General – Basic MasterFrame Tutorial
To generate a new frame:

1. Enter MasterFrame and create a new file using the MasterSeries file selection menu
as described in section 2.2.
2. The Frame Generation Menu will appear. Select a frame wizard as shown above.
3. Edit the data for the start-up frame. Remember that it is easier to delete unwanted
nodes and members rather than adding new ones;
4. Click on to generate the frame;

5. Use the options from the Nodes and Members Menus to edit and modify the frame
geometry;
6. Define member properties and loading;
7. Define supports and nodal loading;
8. Use the options from the Duplicate and Add Frame Menus to edit and modify the
frame geometry;
9. Use the options from the Cases menu to define references, loading cases and loading
combinations.
You can tailor the start-up frame to your specific requirements using very powerful and
easy-to-use editing tools.
Details of each of the Frame Wizards are described herein
3 MasterFrame 3- 18
Simple beam
This option generates a simply
supported beam with two loading
cases:
1.4 D1 + 1.6 L1 and
1.0 L1.
3.8.1 Load Groups and Load cases
The program automatically enters the

Member Editing Area, where you can
apply section properties, member
loading and define member
orientation.
Continuous Beam
This option generates a continuous beam of varying spans.
By default all supports are pinned. Options are provided for
making the end 1 (left) and 2 (right) support conditions free or
fixed. The loading options provided are discussed below.
Sub-Frame
This option generates a sub-frame of

varying spans and heights in simple or
ridged construction. Nodal restraints for
the bottom of the lower columns and top
of the upper columns is defined by the
Base Fixity%, where 0 is pinned and 100
is fully fixed with values in between
producing partial fixity.
3 MasterFrame 3- 19
Multi-Storey and Grillages
This option generates a multi-storey
frame or a grillage frame of varying spans
and heights in simple or ridged
construction. Nodal restraint for the base
nodes are defined in same way for the
Sub-Frame generation as described
above.
To generate a grillage check the Grillage

Generation box. The Spans and Storey
then become spacings in the X and Z
directions.
Continuous Beam, Sub-Frame, Multi-Storey and Grillages

In Continuous Beam, Sub-Frame, Multi-Storey and Grillages
the following options are common:
No. of Spans defines the number of spans wide and
Storeys high.
Def Span (m) defines the span value for all spans that
have not been changed using the Individual Spans
Combo.
Def Height (m) defines the height value for all levels that
have not been changed using the Individual Levels
Combo.
Span 01 drop list - Select a span to change the individual
span value from that of the default span.
Level 01 drop list - Select a level to change the individual
height value from that of the default height.
Uniformly distributed dead and live loading may be applied

to all the beams. The Spacing (m) value defined is the
distance between the plane frames purley for purposes of
calculating the total load on the beam from the dead and
live kN/m2 value entered. In simple terms the Spacing
value is a factor by which the dead and live loads are
multiplied to arrive at the kN/m value on the beam.
3 MasterFrame 3- 20
Tip: The loading defined in the frame wizard applies a common intensity of load to all
beams in all spans/levels. Even if this is not the case in your structure is is still
recommended to enter the most common intensity of loading since any loads applied
by the wizard can edited or removed in the general member loading editing/aplication
area.
Note: Entering a Spacing value will actually apply a spacing definition to all the beam
members, with the result that any further member loads that are applied to the beams
in the standard member loading area will also be factored by the spacing value. You
may decide not to use a spacing value (leaving the entry blank) therefore the dead live
loading values you specify should be the final loads on the beams in kN/m.
Checking this box will generate 7 loading cases as follows:
Loading Loading Case Title Loading Combination
Case
01 All Spans Loaded (Ultimate) 1.4 D1 + 1.6 L1 + 1.4 D2 + 1.6
L2
02 Alternate Spans Loaded I (Ultimate) 1.4 D1 + 1.6 L1 + 1.0 D2 + 0.0

L2
03 Alternate Spans Loaded II (Ultimate) 1.0 D1 + 0.0 L1 + 1.4 D2 + 1.6

L2
04 All Spans Loaded (Serviceability) 1.0 D1 + 1.0 L1 + 1.0 D2 + 1.0

L2
05 Alternate Spans Loaded I 1.0 D1 + 1.0 L1 + 1.0 D2 + 0.0

(Serviceability) L2
06 Alternate Spans Loaded II 1.0 D1 + 0.0 L1 + 1.0 D2 + 1.0

(Serviceability) L2
07 Live Only (Serviceability) 0.0 D1 + 1.0 L1 + 0.0 D2 + 1.0

L2
Where:
D1 Dead Loads on Odd Spans
L1 Live Loads on Odd Spans
D2 Dead Loads on Even Spans
L2 Live Loads on Even Spans
If the box is not checked then only 2 loading cases are generated as follows:
Case
01 Dead plus Live (Ultimate) 1.4 D1 + 1.6 L1
02 Live Only (Serviceability) 0.0 D1 + 1.0 L1
Where:
3 MasterFrame 3- 21
D1 Dead Loads
L1 Live Loads
3.8.1 Load Cases and Load Groups
Checking this box will release the ends of all beams and provide X
and Z horizontal restraint at the left hand node of each level. A Beam Fixity% text box
will also appear enabling you to employ a percentage of partial fixity at the ends of the
beam, where 0 is pinned and 100 is fully continuous.
Checking these boxes will result in alternative

methods for node and column numbering.
Multi-Bay Portal Frame

This option generates a Multi-Bay Portal Frame of varying
spans and rises.
By unchecking the Equal Bays option the Span, Rise,
Haunch Depth, Haunch Length at Eaves and Apex can be
defined independently for each bay. The geometry of the
portal frame is modelled on the centre line of the members.
Each of these parameters are explained in more detail in the
diagram below.
Standard vertical dead and live loading can be applied to
the rafter members in the same fashion as noted above for
the Continuous Beam frame wizard.
Unique to this frame wizard is that it applies steel section
sizes to the rafter, external column and internal column
members together with haunching information. The
numbers in the sections text boxes refer to the MasterSeries
section reference number and the steel grade reference
number, however there is no need to be concerned about
these. To view or change the section size and/or grade,
1. Click in the section text box you wish to
change, e.g. Rafter Section and not the
corresponding data box. The Steel Section
selection form will appear.
2. Select the required section type, size and grade.

3. Click on Paste to enter the selected information in the section text box
4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 for other sections, e.g. external column and internal column.
3 MasterFrame 3- 22
5. To close the Steel Section selection form click in a non-section related text box,
e.g. Partial Fixity%, then click on the ‘x’ button on the Steel Section selection form.
Fink Truss
This option generates an eight panel fink truss for the input
span and height automatically calculating the internal co-
ordinates to ensure perpendicular members to the top
chord. Internal members may be pinned or fixed.
Tip! If you require a fink truss with a smaller number in

internal panel then simply allow this frame wizard to
generate the eight internal panels, then delete the member
that are not needed using the MasterFrame editing tools.
N and V Lattice
These frame wizards generate variable height N, V and Vierendeel lattice trusses.
Internal members may be pinned or fixed. A camber may be included, panel sizes can
be automatically calculated and the truss may be made into a triangular space truss.
Options are also available to generate plane frame X and V towers.
3 MasterFrame 3- 23
Space Roof Truss
This option generates a traditional large span space truss
consisting of upper and lower boom square/rectangular
grids connected by internal diagonals.
Import a Frame ,
If you have selected Import ASCII or Import from

Library from the Frame Wizard menu after creating a
new file then this option will create new file that is a
copy of an existing MasterFrame file.
If the Import ASCII or Import from Library option is

selected from the Add Frame menu then you are
adding a previously generated frame to the current
frame, or replacing the current frame with the imported
frame.
Frames Library
You can save any frame to the frames library by selecting File> Save Current Frame to
Library (Main Menu only). You can select to import a frame from the library by selecting
the library option when starting a new file from the frame generation menu.
3 MasterFrame 3- 24
Snap Grid
You can
• Generate a frame using the

Snap Grid.
• Use the Define New
Members (Snap Grid) at any
stage from the Geometry menu
• Select to work in one of the
three global XY, YZ or XZ planes.
• Define the grid spacing in the
current plane (X and Y spacing
for the XY plane) and the depth
of the plane (the Z value for the
XY plane).
The process of generating members and nodes using the span grid is best explained
using the following simple example. During this process it is useful to display the
member numbers and node number using the buttons in the top tool bar.
Setting up the Grid
1. Firstly ensure that the button is pressed down (on) as described

below.
3 MasterFrame 3- 25
2. Select the plane you wish to generate the member in using the (XY plane)
(YZ plane ) and (XZ plane) buttons on the right of the screen. This small plane
frame exists in the XY plane therefore select the option.
3. Define the appropriate grid spacings. If no grid spacing values are defined the
default is 1.0 m. Let’s firstly generate the left column, which is 2.75 m high. Therefore
enter a value of 2.75 in the Y Spacing box.
4. Define the position of the XY grid on the Z axis. If we where dealing with a space
frame, then we could position the grid on the Z axis by entering the Z Value (m). This
example is a plane frame in the XY plane, therefore Z Value is zero and this entry can
be left blank.
Defining the Member
5. Click on the First Node label to enter the cursor in this cell. This step tells the
program that you are about to select the co-ordinate position on the grid of the first node
of a new member. At this stage do not concern yourself with the actual numbers in the
Start at Mem., First node and Second node boxes. MasterFrame will always automate
these numbers bases on any existing node and member numbers in the structure.
6. Move the cursor on the main grid. You will notice a large red cross, which snaps
onto the grid points. Note the information displayed in the toolbar below the viewing area
indicating which end of the member the program is defining (End 1 – first node, or End 2
– second node) together with the current grid point XYZ nodal co-ordinate. This
information is very useful; therefore always keep your eye on it.
7. Move the red cross hair to the origin of the grid indicated by intersection of the
thick grey horizontal and vertical lines. The information display should read End 1 =
node 1 @ 0,0,0.
8. Click once at this grid point. You have now physically generated node 1, which is
the first node of member 1. You will notice that the Second node box has automatically
highlighted, therefore the program is expecting you to pick the second node of member
1 on the grid.
9. Move the grid point directly above the one just selected. The tool tip should read
End 2 = node 2 @ 0,2.75,0. Click once to generate the second node of member 1,
therefore completing the member
Similarly for the right column,
1. Set Y Spacing to 3.5 (height of right column) and X Spacing to 8.5 (distance
between columns)
2. Click on First node. Again do not do anything with the numbers in these cells.
3 MasterFrame 3- 26
3. Click once on grid point ‘End 1 = node 3 @ 8.5,0,0’
4. Click once on grid point ‘End 2 = node 4 @ 8.5,3.5,0’ You have now generated
member 2.
Finally to generate the rafter member
1. The rafter member will connect from top of left column to top of right column.
Since we have already generated these node points we can select the Exiting Nodes
option, therefore no longer using the snap grid.
2. Click on First Node
5. Click once on the top of the left column ‘End 1 = node 2 @ 0,2.75,0’
3. Click once on the top of the right column ‘End 2 = node 4 @ 8.5,3.5,0’. You have
now generated member 3, the rafter.
Activate On Click - Define Members

This option semi-automates some of the block editing operations eliminating the need to
use proceed after each operation.
In this case, a new member will be positioned as soon as the Second node is entered.
At the same time, the Start at Mem. is incremented by 1, and the focus moves
automatically back to the First node (if the Polyline button is OFF otherwise the new First
node is made equal to the last node on the polyline) ready for defining the next member
in the series.
Polyline - Define Members

This option allows you to position a series of members as a polyline whereby each new
member starts at the end of the previous member.
You can delete an existing member. The snap grid works on the Add/Delete principle. If
you define a new member over an existing member then both members are deleted.
When a new member starts or ends at a point along an existing member, you will be
asked whether you wish to split the existing member to make a connection or to leave
the new member free at that point.
When you define a member between two points with intermediate nodes, the new
member is automatically split to make connections to all intermediate nodes.
3 MasterFrame 3- 27
3.3.2 General Block Editing Methodology
MasterFrame provides a wide range of very useful editing functions for making
changes to and adding to the geometry of the frame. This section explains the
common underlying principle in the use of many MasterFrame editing tools, the
understanding of which is fundamental in your ease of use of the program. These
principles are referred to as block editing.
Many of these functions allow you to perform an operation on a group of nodes or

members in the frame. An example of such an operation would be shifting a group of
nodes in the X, Y and/or Z directions; or deleting a group of members.
Each of the editing functions are described in full detail in the following sections of the
manual.
3.3.3 The Geometry Menu
To use a block editing option:
1. Select an editing option from the 3D-Model or Geometry menu;

2. Click Reset to clear the previously selected nodes or members (if applicable);
3. Select the nodes/members you wish to edit (if applicable);
4. Edit the data for the brief;
5. Press the Show New Frame to display a preview of the changes you are about to
make;
6. Modify the data if required;
7. Press Proceed to confirm and activate the changes.
3 MasterFrame 3 - 28
In the following generic description of the block
editing methodology, the Shift XYZ editing function
(accessed from the Nodes menu) is used as an
example.
This function requires the user to

1. Select the nodes to shift either by clicking on
the nodes themselves or by clicking or entering the
node numbers manually in the Move Node box.
2. Use one of the following methods to describe
the shift mode.
• Specify the distance to shift the node in the
Shift X, Shift Y and Shift Z directions (m)
• Specify the node to shift to in the To Node
AND box
• Specify the member in the Along Member box
and the Length (m) in the Length box.
3. The proposed action can be previewed using
the function and the click
to confirm the action.
Block Editing and Data Input
Many of the input Data Input entries rely on the user clicking inside the frame geometry
area to input a number equal to the node number, the member number, the X co-
ordinate, the Y co-ordinate or the Z co-ordinate of a node. The required value is usually
indicated by the prompt displayed in the bottom left hand side corner of geometry area
and also by the context sensitive mouse pointer.
This type of input is demonstrated in the Shift XYZ function by the ‘Move Node’ and the
‘To Node AND’ input data which receives node numbers. To enter this data,
1. Click on the ‘Move Node’ label. This clears the entry and positions the cursor in
the box. This is now the current input field.
2. Move the mouse pointer to the frame geometry area. You will notice that context
sensitive mouse pointer looks like a hand holding a node, and also ‘Node?’ is displayed
at the bottom left of the screen. These are both an idication that the program expects to
select a node.
3. Click on a node in the frame geometry area. You will notice that that node
number has been returned to the ‘Move Node’ data input. Also the cursor has
automatically moved to the next input field, which in this case is ‘To Node AND’
Other input data fields simple receive direct entry from the keyboard. To enter data in
a text box with a button label, press the label to clear the box and then type in the box.
Current block editing field

receives keyboard input
Select field to enter data in

by clicking on its label
You can also use the standard methods of changing text used in all Windows
applications. In all Windows applications you can mark a text using the mouse and then
type in new text to replace it.
Selecting Nodes/Members
The group of nodes or members to perform the particular editing function on may be
selected by the following methods.
1. Firstly ensure that the cursor is the large main box in the editing function. This
can be done by clicking inside the box or clicking on the button above the box, in this
example ‘Nodes to Shift’.
2. The node/member numbers is this box are the selected nodes/members.
Nodes/members can added or removed from the box by either single clicking on the
node/member or cross windowing a group of nodes/member in the frame geometry
area.
The block editing in MasterFrame operates on a select/deselect philosophy, whereby if

you select a node/member (either by clicking on it or cross windowing it) then if that item
is currently selected then it will be removed from the selection box, other wise it will be
added to the selection.
The “Reset” Button cancels the

selected nodes/members.
The “Add Group” button enables you

to specify a series of nodes/members
“Start, End and in Step of” and then
press “Add” to Add Delete these to the
currently selected nodes/members.
The “Reset All” button resets the

“Start, End and Step” to include all the
nodes/members in the frame.
Cross windowing Nodes/Members: Position mouse pointer to corner of selection

window, press left mouse button down and hold, move the mouse pointer to size
selection window, enclosing the selected nodes or member centres and then release.
Tip! A member is selected in a cross window if its centre is enclosed.
Block Editing Buttons
Show New Frame

This option enables you to preview the changes you are about to make before you
select to Proceed with the block editing operation.
When this option is selected (button down) you will be able to dynamically view all
changes as your input data is changed.
Proceed
Proceed with the current block editing option. You can use the Show New Frame to
see the final results before selecting this option. You can also use the Undo option to
cancel all changes made since the current block editing option was last selected.
Undo
Cancel all changes made since the current block editing option was last selected.
Activate On Click
use proceed after each operation. The effects are variable depending on the particular
editing function being used, as listed below.
1. Nodes> Edit and Add Nodes (Snap Grid) wit the Snap Grid - Add/Delete option
In this case, the Snap Grid - Add/Delete operation will be performed immediately as
soon as you click the mouse in the frame graphics area.
If this button is not active (button up) the program will display the X, Y and Z co-ordinate
for the closed node to the mouse pointer in the frame graphics area.
2. Members> Define New Member (Snap Grid)

At the same time, the Start at Mem. is incremented by 1, and the focus moves
in the series.
3. Members> Redefine Ends of an existing member

In this case, the member is re-positioned as soon as the Second node is entered. The
focus moves automatically back to the Redefine mem ready for re-defining the next
member (if the Polyline button is OFF).
3.3.3 The Geometry Menu
The Geometry Menu provides options for editing nodal

co-ordinates, copying, inserting, merging, deleting and re-
naming (re-numbering) nodes and members. It also
provides options for cleaning up the frame and importing
other frames thorugh the use of the Add Frame tool. A
number of the functions in the nodes menu are also
avialble in the Quick Menu.
It is recommended that you have first studied section

3.3.2 of this manual before moving onto this section.
3.3.3.1 Define New Members

This section provides access to
member creation and editing.
Define New Member(Snap Grid)

The Define New Member option allows you to insert
new members into the frame. There are three
methods of input Existing Nodes, Regular Snap Grid
and Construction Snap Grid. The Snap Grid methods
introduce new nodes as required.
When a new member starts or ends at a point along an
existing member you will be asked whether you wish to
split the existing member to make connection or to
leave the new member free at that point.
When you define a member between two points with
intermediate nodes, then the new member is
automatically split to make connection to all
intermediate nodes.
Use to keep the split member as a
single SuperMember.
Snap Grids can work in the XY, YZ or XZ
planes.
In the Regular Snap Grid You define the grid
spacing in the current plane (X and Y
spacing for the XY plane) and the depth of
the plane (the Z value for the XY plane).
Regular Snap Grid
In the Construction Snap Grid the grid is

an irregular grid based on the
Coordinates of existing nodes in the
current plane (X and Y Coordinates for
the XY plane) and the depth of the plane
(the Z value for the XY plane).
Construction Snap Grid
Activate On Click - Define Members

At the same time, the Start at Mem box is incremented by 1, and the focus moves
in the series.
Polyline - Define Members

Redefine Ends for an existing member
The Redefine Member option allows you to

redefine end nodes for existing members.
You can redefine a member between existing
frame nodes or the nodes of a snap grid. In the
latter case new nodes are automatically added
to the frame.
There are three methods of input Existing
Nodes, Regular Snap Grid and Construction
Snap Grid. The Snap Grid methods introduce
new nodes as required.
Snap Grids can work in the XY, YZ or XZ
planes.
In the Regular Snap Grid You define

the grid spacing in the current plane
(X and Y spacing for the XY plane)
and the depth of the plane (the Z
value for the XY plane).
Regular Grid
In the Construction Snap Grid the grid is
an irregular grid based on the
Coordinates of existing nodes in the
current plane (X and Y Coordinates for
the XY plane) and the depth of the
plane (the Z value for the XY plane).
When a new member starts or ends at a

point along an existing member, you will
be asked whether you wish to split the
existing member to make connection or
to leave the new member free at that
point.
When you define a member between
two points with intermediate nodes, then
the new member is automatically split to
make connection to all intermediate
nodes.
Construction Grid
Use to keep the split
member as a single SuperMember. For
more information on SuperMembers
see section 3.3.3.11
Activate On Click - Redefine Member

In this case, the member is re-positioned as soon as the Second node is entered and
the focus moves automatically back to the Redefine mem (if the Polyline button is OFF).
Otherwise the Redefine mem is incremented by 1, and the new First node is made equal
to the last node on the polyline) ready for re-defining the next member.
Polyline - Redefine Member

Define New Member in a Floor
Panel
This function creates a new member

within a panel created by encircling
members. For example this function
can create a network of secondary
beams between a group of primaries
as shown across:
Note the only requirement is that
there are two members for the new
members to span between.
Note that this tool can
produce new members
that are parallel to
another or fan to a
desired spread
This function requires the user to follow

several steps. Note: It is easiest to create
these floor panel members if working in a plan
view of the level.
1. Select the floor panel members that

surround the panel. This can be done in
several ways:
• Tick the Auto-Pick box and then click
anywhere within the enclosed panel. The
surrounding members will highlight in red and
their numbers will appear in the box
below .
• Unselect the Auto-Pick box and select
the two members that the new members will
span between. The selected members should
highlight in red and their number will appear in
the box below
• Click on Add Group and
then fill in the Start and End
member and the step. Then click
on to automatically
generate the selection.
Note: If the wrong members are selected
simply click on reset to remove the selection
2. Now select the member new member

is to be parallel to by highlighting the
Parallel with Member box and clicking on
a member in the viewing area.
Note: At least one of the members

previously selected must be non-
parallel to this member or else the
function will not work.
3. Now select the Distance form Parallel

Member and the No. of Members to decide
spacing and number of new members.
Note: If you have not selected a parallel

member previously and the two reference
Reference members are non-parallel or are not the
Members same length, this function will create a fan
arrangement. This is because the Distance
field is meaningless and the programme
equally spaces the spanning members
along the two reference members as
shown.
Spanning beams highlighted in red.

Notice the two reference members are
still parallel
4. The following options can also be
activated
• Keep as SuperMember causes the

reference members, which are initially
divided into many smaller members by
the additional nodes, to remain as
SuperMembers.
• On plan uses the plan distance for
the Distance (m) from Parallel member
input.
• Try Reverse will try the reverse of
the operation just attempted.
5. Now specify the Section properties of the
new member(s) to be inserted.
• Steel sections, rectangular and Tee

concrete sections and rectangular timber
sections can all be specified. Note: The
new sections can be left unspecified by
clicking on the Dummy (deactivate) button.
• The orientation of the beam can also
be specified through the use of the Beta
angle function.
• The release ends box will release
both ends of the member in minor and major
axis bending but the members will not be
released in torsion.
Note: The insert floor panel member

sub-menu has a number of useful
shortcuts such as Add Member,
Redefine Member, Delete Member and
Add Node (Split member)
3.3.3.2 Define New Nodes
This menu is used to create new

nodes, which can be achieved in a
variety of ways. Such as with a
traditional text system, snap grid or
along an existing member.
Edit Co-ordinates(List)
The Nodal Co-ordinates List enables you to
edit the nodal co-ordinates X, Y and Z, add or
insert new nodes, delete existing nodes and
move (shift) nodes.
In the adjacent form, with the shift selected,

clicking the OK button will move node 4 by -3
along the X-axis, 6 in the Y-axis and 0 along
the z-axis. If the Shift key is not highlighted,
then the text box to right of it is not used and
the OK button is deactivated.
Note: To aid in this process the axes can be

displayed on the screen by clicking on , on
the main toolbar.
To change an existing nodal co-ordinate simply position the cursor in the appropriate
position in the nodal co-ordinate list and over type the existing values.
Add This button will add a new node to end of the current node list with a
default XYZ co-ordinate of 0,0,0. This can then be edited as described above.
Delete To delete a node position the cursor at any point on the line of the node
you wish to remove. Click the Del button. The node will be deleted along with any
members that where attached to it.
Insert Adds a new node in the position of the list above the currently selected
node, hence incrementing all the existing node numbers below this point by 1.
All+ Make all XYZ Co-ordinates positive.
Export (Copy) Copies the current list of nodes to the Windows Clip board.
Opening another windows application such as Microsoft Excel or NotePad, then
selecting to Paste, will copy the list of nodes to this program.
Import (Paste) This function essentially operates in reverse of the

Export(Copy) function. If you have list of XYZ nodal co-ordinates in text format in
another application, then these can be selected and copied. Accessing the Nodal Co-
ordinates list in MasterFrame and selecting to Import will add the copied list to the
current list of nodes
Edit and Add Nodes (Snap Grid)
This option can be used in four modes as follows:
1. Display X, Y 2. Edit X,Y and Z 3. Add/Delete 4. Add/Delete

and Z Nodes to Regular Nodes to
Snap Grid Construction Snap
Grid
1. Display X, Y and Z
This option displays the X, Y and Z Co-ordinates of a node as you move the mouse on
the screen. The node and its Co-ordinates are also displayed in the appropriate input
fields.
2. Edit X, Y and Z
The Edit X, Y and Z option enables you to move the selected node to the specified
position.
With Activate On Click ON, you can click on a node to edit and then click on any node
to enter the new X value, the new Y value and the new Z value to confirm.
Activate On Click - Edit X, Y and Z

In this case, the Edit X, Y and Z operation will be performed immediately as the Z value
is entered and the focus will automatically move back to Edit Node ready for editing the
next node.
3. Add/Delete Nodes to Regular Snap Grid
The Snap Grid : Add/Del option enables you to add and delete nodes to snap grid. You
can change the grid spacing and/or origin. The snap grid can be set up in the XY, YZ
or XZ planes and work with any parallel plane, e.g. on an XY plane with a Z Value =
3m.
To use the Snap Grid,
1. Ensure that the Activate on Click button is on (pressed down).

2. Move the mouse point to the desired new node location on the Snap grid. The
grid co-ordinate is displayed in the input data fields, at the bottom left of the screen and
also as a tool tip.
3. Click once to generate the new node.
4. To Delete and existing simple click on it in the snap grid, however bear in mind
that the regular snap grid set up only allows selection of grid points, therefore may not
allow selection of some existing nodes. To ensure selection of all nodes change to the
Construction Snap Grid.
4. Add/Delete Nodes to Construction Snap Grid
The Snap Grid: Add/Del option using the Construction Snap Grid allows you to add and
delete nodes as per the regular snap grid. The construction grid provides a series of
vertical and horizontal grid lines which pass through all existing nodes. The grid can
then be offset in the vertical and horizontal direction.
Activate On Click - Snap Grid - Add/Delete

With this option ON (pressed down) the Snap Grid - Add/Delete operation will be
performed immediately as soon as you click the mouse in the frame graphics area. It is
recommended that this option is always on when using this function.
If this button is not active (button not highlighted) the program will display the X, Y and
Z Co-ordinates for the closest node to the mouse pointer in the frame graphics area.
Add Nodes on Straight
The Add Nodes on a Straight Line option enables you to

insert a number of nodes and space them equally on any
straight line drawn from a selected node (Master Node).
The Master Node is the node at which the new nodes

will be inserted and its Co-ordinates are used as the
origin for the new set of nodes.
Another method is to select a member and specify the

number of nodes to be placed along its length.
Nodes' Editing Options - Position Nodes on a

Straight Line
Split (Insert a node on a straight)
This function enables you to add nodes to the frame, at any

point between two other nodes.
If no distance or ratio is specified the new node will be

placed mid-way between the original two nodes chosen.
The distance or ratio refers to the distance from the first

node to the new node along the length of the line between
the two nodes.
Split Member (Insert a node)
The Split Members option allows you to split selected

members introducing new node(s) and new member(s). You
define the distance in m unit (the length of the first portion in
each member) or the Ratio of the length of the first portion to
that of the original member. You can also specify the
number of equal segments to split the member into. Select
the member to split by clicking on Member to Split area and
then the members in the viewing area.
Split Two members @ Intersection

The split two members at intersection function enables you to
simply select two members to insert a node and connect the
members at the intersection point. If the selected members
do not intersect then this function will create a node at the
projected intersection of the two members. The intersection
point must have similar X, Y and Z co-ordinates with a certain
tolerance.
Alternatively, the single member or lines of members can be

specified by clicking on the start and end node of each
member or line of members.
The split members can be kept as SuperMembers by

selecting the Keep as SuperMember option.
Insert Node at Apparent Intersection of Two

Members
This function requires the user to specify two non-
parallel members or the start and end nodes of two
non-parallel lines. It will then place a node at the
projected intersection of the two lines.
3.3.3.3 Change Nodal Coordinates
This sub-menu provides access to a

selection of tools to edit nodal
coordinates:
For the Edit Coordinates (List) and Edit and Add Nodes (Snap Grid) functions see
previous section.
Shift XYZ
The Shift XYZ option adds the specified values in Shift X, Shift
Y and Shift Z to the X, Y and Z Co-ordinates respectively for
the selected nodes.
Enter existing node numbers in the Move Node (n1) and To

Node AND (n2) input. This has the effect of shifting the
selected nodes by an amount equal to difference in the X, Y
and Z co-ordinates of n1 and n2, i.e. (n2-n1). This is most
useful when you wish to move the selected node set by moving
a node in the set (n1) to another node in the structure (n2).
This movement is in addition to the Shift X, Y and Z amounts
entered.
As before all operations are carried out on the Nodes

highlighted in the Nodes to Shift box.
Multiply XYZ (Re-scale)
The Multiply XYZ option is a scaling function

that multiplies the selected nodes by the scale
factors.
Change XYZ (Block of Nodes)
The Change XYZ option enables you to change the X, Y

or Z Co-ordinates for a number of selected nodes to a
specified value.
In the above example the Y Co-ordinates of nodes 1 to 13

will be set to 5.77 m.
Selected nodes are highlighted in the Nodes to Change

box
Reset Origin : All XYZ Positive
The Make All XYZ Positive option

automatically shifts the whole frame so
that all X, Y and Z Co-ordinates are
made positive. This automatically done
at analysis time, however it may
occasionally be necessary during the
editing process.
Redefine Global Axis (New X Axis)
The New Global X-Axis provides you with a

special method for rotating the frame, or
part of it. You can select the line for the new
X axis and then rotate the frame about the
new X axis by the specified angle.
Swap XYZ
The Swap XYZ option enables you to
exchange co-ordinate axis for selected
nodes. An example would be using the
Swap Y and Z function to convert a
multi-storey frame to a bridge deck.
All loads remain in their original
directions i.e. UDLY is still UDLY.
Rotate XYZ
The Rotate XYZ option enables you to

rotate the selected nodes about the X, Y or
Z axis. You can specify the angle and
centre of rotation.
3.3.3.4 Position Nodes

This sub–menu provides tools to quickly
position nodes on standard shapes. It
does not matter if the selected nodes are
already connected to members.
Position on Straight Line
The Position on Straight Line option repositions selected

existing nodes, onto a straight line defined by the Start Node
and End Node. If no start and end nodes are defined then the
highest and lowest nodes in the nodes to position selection will
be used. (e.g. 1 and 13)
Position on Circle
The Position Nodes on Circle option enables you to place a set

of selected nodes on a complete or part circle defined by its
radius, centre, start and increment angles. The Circle can be in
XY, XZ or YZ planes.
Position on Arch
The Position Nodes on Arch option enables you to place a set of

selected nodes on an in or out-of-plane arch defined by two
nodes and an offset (camber). If no start and end nodes are
defined, then the highest and lowest nodes in the nodes to
position selection will be used. ( e.g. 1 and 16 ).
3.3.3.5 Delete
Delete Nodes
The Delete Nodes option enables you to delete a

number of selected nodes and all members
connected to them. The remaining nodes and
members in the frame are renumbered
automatically.
Delete Members
The Delete Nodes option allows you to delete a
number of selected nodes and all members
connecting to them. The remaining nodes and
members in the frame are renumbered
automatically.
3.3.3.6 Merge
Merge Two Nodes
The merge nodes option enables you to merge two nodes

into one. Members connectivity to both nodes are
maintained. If the two nodes being merged form the ends
of an existing member, then the member will be deleted.
Merge Two Members

Merges two members that are arranged in a
straight line, i.e. delete the connecting node and
redefine as one member.
3.3.3.7 Duplicate
The Duplicate Menu provides options for

duplicating frames (or any part thereof) by:
1. Applying a shift to the X, Y and Z Coordinates of
the existing frame; or
2. Rotating the X, Y and Z Coordinates.
At this stage it may be advantageous to review general block editing techniques.
Duplicate Nodes and Members
The Duplicate Nodes and Members option allows you to duplicate any number of
nodes and their connecting members using up to ten sets of duplicate specification. In
each set you can specify X, Y and/or Z spacing and the number of repeats.
You can duplicate with or without tie members. You can also select to pack (no-unused
members) and/or renumber the members in the process.
Duplicate by Rotation
The Duplicate by Rotation option allows generation of a wide

range of plane and space frames. You can also use this
option to mirror a frame for symmetry.
If no angle is defined then a closed circle will be generated
with the number of repeats equally pitched around 360° (e.g.
3 repeats would produce frames at 90° pitch).
If only the Angle is defined then a closed circle will be
generated providing the angle is divisible into 360°. (e.g. 30
degrees would produce 11 frames at 30° pitch).
Make Tower
This function can be used to make a

tower with the current frame. For a
plane frame this means it will create a
tower level by duplicating it by rotation to
form a single tower level, in effect
creating a cyclinder of duplicated
frames.
The only input is the number of frame

repitions used to create the shape. i.e. 3
sides would give a triangular shaped
tower base.
Make Dome
This function is similar to the make
tower function except it alters the
frames so that they come to a point
directly above the centre of rotation to
form an enclosed volume.
Input the No. of sides, Base Diameter
and Height to carry out the duplication.
3.3.3.8 Add Frame
This feature allows the user to add a frame chosen
from the frame creation wizard seen when creating a
new design from scratch. The selection includes both
templates and an option to import from frames from
other files.
Activating the Insert Frame (Replace) function will

cause the current frame to be replaced with the new
frame.

3.3.1 Frame Generation Procedures and
Templates
Origin and Orientation

This option is used with the frame
generation/import options, it allows you to
re-size, shift and rotate the new frame. It
also allows you to specify the insertion
point for the nodes and members when the
new frame is being added to an existing
one.
You can select to change the order in
which the shift and the rotate operations
are carried out.
Insert Frame : Start at
Specify the insertion point for the nodes
and members when the
imported/generated frame is being added
to an existing one.
Resize Frame
Specify the X, Y and Z re-sizing factors for
the imported/generated frame [Default is 1]
3.3.3.9 Model Clean Up
This sub-menu provides useful tools to
help delete and merge erroneous nodes
and members in order to reduce analysis
time. It also provides some frame filtering
tools.
Pack (Delete unused nodes)
The Pack nodes option automatically deletes nodes that

are not connected to any member, merges duplicate
nodes (nodes with the same X, Y and Z Co-ordinates)
and deletes duplicate members, for example, members
connecting the same two nodes. The tolerance input
determines how close two nodes have to be to merge. If
left blank then the nodes must have the same coordinates
(to 3 decimal places) to merge.
Pack (Delete unused members)

The Pack Members option allows you to delete any unused
members. The Pack Nodes Option is more powerful and
includes the pack members as one of its functions.
Auto Split
Before using this function make sure you are confident

with the Split Member (Insert a node) function in
section 3.3.3.2.
This function automatically scans the frame for any
members with nodes that are coincident but are not
attached to the member. In the example across notice
how members 1 and 3 despite there being 2
intermediate node along their length. Select the Auto
Split function and it will automatically highlight the nodes
that require attention.
The Auto Split function detects the
members with unconnected intermediate
nodes and highlights them in red. Click
Proceed to carry out this action.
If more than one split is required the

frame will remain highlighted. Click
Proceed until none of the frame is
highlighted.
The result is that at each coincident point between the

member and node the Auto Split has split the member
and connected the ends to the coincident node. This
can be seen across.
Show and Merge Coincident Nodes
The merge nodes option enables you to merge two nodes

into one. Members’ connectivity to both nodes is
maintained. If the two nodes being merged form the ends
of an existing member, then the member will be deleted.
Merge All Members

Will merges two member that are arranged in a
straight line i.e. delete the connecting node and
redefine as one member. Also if two members
are not in a straight line but share a common
node this function will create a single merged
member, which spans the two end nodes. For
example of two sides of a square are selected the
merge function will delete and replace them with
a diagonal member.
Check for Short Members
Will simply highlight any

members which are below a
certain length specified by the
user.
3.3.3.10 Renumber Nodes and Members
Renumber All Nodes and Members

Will renumber all nodes and members according to a set
user system such as X-Y-Z front to back, Z-Y-X left to right
and X-Z-Y bottom to top. The advanced option is the
preferred method as it renumbers according to member
connectivity and follows the preferred numbering method of
the analysis function. Hence if the advanced option is used
it is far less likely for problems to arise at the analysis
stage. There is also an option to renumber the nodes or
members only.
Rename a Node (Renumber)
The Rename (re-number) nodes option renumbers a

node with the other node numbers adjusted
accordingly.
To use the rename option to full effect, use the

Activate On Click Option.
With Activate On Click Option ON, the New node No.
is automatically incremented by 1 to enable you to
click on the next node to rename.
Rename Member (Renumber)
The Rename Members allows you to renumber
members in any sequence. To use the rename option
effectively we suggest using the Activate on Click
Option.
With Activate on Click Option ON, the New Member
No is automatically incremented by 1 to allow you to
click on the next Member to rename.
3.3.3.11 SuperMembers
Super Members are very

useful for gluing two or
more member elements
together as one structural
element. In the structure
shown here there is a
primary beam spanning
between nodes 3 and 6.
This beam supports two
transverse beams,
therefore requiring nodes
4 and 5, meaning that the
primary beam is modelled
using members 1, 2 and
3.
Defining members 1, 2
and 3 as one super
member will assist in the
modelling, analysis and
design of this structural
member.
There are three different types of Super Members,

1. Analysis Super Members
2. Design Super Members
3. Drafting Super Members
Each has its own advantage and recommended usage, as described below.
Note: Super member definitions do not delete members. The super member function
should not be confused with Merge Member facility, which does delete members by
merging two members on a straight line into one, removing the intermediate node. In
super members the intermediate nodes (nodes 4 and 5 in the above example) are not
deleted.
Analysis Super Members
The analysis super member is the most intelligent and perhaps the most frequently
used of the three types. The analysis type is also a parent definition of super member
in that is it is also a design and drafting super member.
In MasterFrame the analysis super member has the following effects,
1. When apply a section size the entire super member is selected (as a structural
element) and not just a portion of it, therefore avoiding the need to repetitively assign the
same section property individually to all parts of a structural element. Therefore all
members of a super member will have the same section property.
2. Similarly the all member loads are applied to the super member a whole. For
example UDL load will span over the full super member length. Member loads that are
applied at a set distance along the length of a member are again applied to the overall
super member with the distances being measured from the smallest node number in the
super member.
3. The member orientation Beta angle is applied to the super member as a whole.
4. When using the automatic application of member end releases facility, the
release (pin) is placed at the ends of the super member only, i.e. not internally on the
super member.
5. Member labels such as

member number, section size
and member length are
produced in a single label at
the centre of the super
member, therefore improving
the clarity of the graphical
presentation of frame
information.
6. The graphical output of member forces is significantly improved since the values
presented for the chosen force are for the whole super member.
In the example shown here

the near primary beam,
which is a super member,
has three values of
bending moment
presented. The far primary
beam is not a super
member, i.e. is three
completely separate
members, has more
unnecessary labelling,
hence reducing the clarity
of output.
7. One of the major

advantages of the analysis
super member is that it will
calculate the in member
deflections for the whole
super member. Again here
we can see the near primary
beam (super member) has a
total in member deflection of
8.5 mm, while the three
member deflections
calculated on the far primary
beam are for each individual
member and are of less use.
Tip: Steel Super-Members are best defined as the Analysis type, while integrated
composite beam members must be defined as the analysis type.
In the Integrated Design Programs the analysis super member has the following
effects,
The analysis super member has the following unique effects in the integrated design
programs
1. The in span deflection for the overall super member is checked in a Beam and
Beam Portion or Axial with Moments design brief.
All other analysis super member features in the design programs are as per the Design
super member. Hence re-iterating the fact that the analysis super member is also a
design super member.
In the MasterCAD programs for the production of G.A. drawings and 3D solid models,
the analysis super member behaves as per the Drafting super member.
Warning! It is strongly recommended that the analysis super members are defined
before the application of standard MasterFrame member loading or section properties.
If each member initially has a different section property or arrangement of member
loads, then after the super member is defined all associated members will use the
same section property and member loads as the first member of the super member
(smallest member number). Hence the existing section property and member loading
on all but the first member will be over written.
Design Super Members

Design super members do not perform any of the analysis super member functions
described above and are therefore less intelligent. In the integrated MasterKey Steel
Sections and MasterKey Concrete Design programs the design super member has the
following effects,
1. The design brief is applied to the super member as a whole, and therefore uses
the forces and effective length of the whole super member for design. The design check
is carried out on the whole super member. Without the design super member each
individual member would be designed independently.
2. Section property changes in any of the design programs occurs for the whole
super member.
The in span deflections are not calculated and checked for design super members.
This is unique to the analysis super members.
Remember that an analysis super member is also a design super member.
The only advantage of a design super member is that, unlike the analysis super
member, by defining it any existing member loading will not be affected. Hence if you
discover that you need a super member definition for design purposes after you have
applied the member loading to them, then the design super member will fulfil this
purpose without changing the loading.
Drafting Super members
All Analysis super members are automatically Drafting Super-Members. The drafting
super members do not have any of the features of the analysis or design super
members. The drafting super member has influence in MasterFrame, MasterKey Steel
Sections and MasterCAD.
In MasterFrame the drafting super member has the effect of making each member in
the drafting super member the same section definition. This differs from the analysis
super member in how this is achieved, in that when defining the section properties the
individual member is selected and not the whole super member. When the section is
changed for the individual member, this is then automatically applied to the other
individual members of the super member.
In MasterKey Steel Sections Design individual design briefs area plied to each member
in a drafting super member. As in MasterFrame when the section size is changed for
one of the members, this section is applied to the other members in the same drafting
super member. More usefully during MasterKey Steel Automatic Design when any
member of a drafting super member is Auto Sized, the steel design program
automatically checks the other members of the super member and adopts an adequate
common section.
In the MasterCAD drafting program the drafting super member is drawn as a single
continuous member.
Tip: Drafting super member are extremely useful for controlling the column section
sizes between splice levels.
Recommendations for which type of Super-Member to use
Integrated Composite Steel
Use Analysis Super-Members for beams. (Usually Primary Beams)
Design or drafting super member cannot be used for this purpose.
Steel
Make beams into Analysis Super-Members to carry deflections through to design. Do
this before applying member loading and section sizes.
Use design super members if you have already applied member loading that you do
not wish to disturb.
Make Columns between splice levels as Drafting Super-Members to improve design
automation and control section sizes.
Concrete
Define Design Super-Members inside the MasterKey Concrete program
Design Super-Members can also be used to simplify the detailing of short beams by
gluing together several concrete members. It also gives better detailing control over
short cantilever members. See frame below.
M 5-7 is a normal Super-Members M 1-4, M 9-12 and M 13-16 have been generated
for ease of detailing.
Caution: The concrete deflection check will only be checked for members M 5-7, 8, 17
& 18 as the other Super-Members will have multiple peaks, or troughs in their Bending
Moment diagrams. See Below
Defining SuperMembers
To successfully define a SuperMember the following

conditions must be met.
1. All members in the SuperMember must be
connected to each other;
2. Member and Node numbers must be progressive in
an ascending or descending order, with member number
and node number going in the same direction. Examples
of valid and invalid SuperMember numbering is shown
below.
Valid Invalid
3. All nodes along the SuperMember should be in a straight line.
• To Manually Define a SuperMember:
1. Click on Define SuperMember to open the SuperMember editing menu

2. At the top of the menu select the type of SuperMember required from the 3
options; Analysis, Design or Drafting.
3. Ensure the Define Member button is in the down position (ON)
4. If there is already some existing SuperMembers press Add New to create a

new group of members
5. Select the members in the frame geometry area to add them to the existing super
member definition. It is important that the members are selected in order from end of
the SuperMember to the other. Members can be selected by individually clicking on
them or by windowing them.
6. To define more SuperMembers repeat steps 4 and 5.
Tip: When defining a SuperMember, if a member is selected which does not comply
with conditions detailed above in relation to the members that are already in the current
SuperMember, then a new SuperMember will automatically be created for this new
selection. Therefore in many instances the Add New in step 4 above may not be
necessary as the program will automatically organise members into suitable
SuperMembers.
• Managing your SuperMembers
All SuperMembers definitions are added

to the drop down list at the top of the
sun-menu. You can move to an existing
SuperMember by one of the following
means.
1. Selecting it from the drop list or by
2. Turn on the find member mode by
ensuring the button is in the down
position. Note that the define member
mode will be turned off. Clicking on a
member in the frame geometry area. If
the selected member is part of an existing
SuperMember definition the drop list will
be set.
3. Move forward and back though the
list using the buttons
The current SuperMember will be highlighted in red in the frame geometry. Other
SuperMembers are highlighted in colour as well. The different colours are useful to
help distinguish between the start of one SuperMember and the end of another where
they follow each other in a straight line.
The label indicates the total number of SuperMembers and the number of
the current one.
The existing SuperMember definition can be manipulated using the following tools:
While Define SuperMember mode is turn on member can be added or removed
from the current definition
Clear all members from the current SuperMember. The SuperMember entry in
the list will remain.
Clear all members from all SuperMember definitions in the current view
Delete the current SuperMember

Delete all SuperMember in the current view
Exit the SuperMember definition area
• Automatic Definition of SuperMember

MasterFrame has a very powerful facility whereby it can attempt to automatically
generate SuperMember definitions by intelligently examining the frame. MasterFrame
will examine the beam runs, i.e. the straight lines of horizontal members, and
determine the points on these beam runs that have a vertical member connected to the
under side of the beams. These vertical members are interpreted as supporting
columns. SuperMembers are automatically defined on the beam runs for the member
between supporting columns. An example of this is shown below.
Note that in this example members 20 and 27 are also classified as a beam run, which
is uninterrupted by any supporting columns. The program will also generate
SuperMembers from these entire beam runs. This is to be avoided since in this
example, members 20 and 27 are independent beams, which span onto the supporting
SuperMember primary beams. To prevent beams of this nature being defined as
SuperMembers it is essential to define a maximum SuperMember length using the
entry.
To automatically define SuperMembers,
1. Enter an appropriate maximum SuperMember length .

2. Select the member directions in which you wish to automatically define
SuperMembers using the following button at the bottom right of the screen.
Selection filter for North-South direction beams.
Selection filter for West-East direction beams.
Selection filter for vertical members (columns)
3. Click on the button to automatically generate SuperMembers from all

members in the current view.
Tip: It is recommended to delete all existing SuperMember from the current view
before using the automatic generation using the Remove SuperMembers function
described next.
Remove SuperMembers
This feature automatically selects all

SuperMembers and deletes them
once has
been pressed.
3.3.3.12 Options
AutoChange Coordinates (all
positive)
This function automatically shifts the
coordinate origin so that all the frame
coordinates are positive. It is
activated when it appears ticked in
the menu.
Basement Depth
This function sets the depth of the base of the building below
ground level. It is only relevant to wind analysis as it
determines the exposed area of the building. Refer to
MasterKey wind analysis manual *****
Map Nodes and Member Numbers
This function can be used to display the
original nodes and member numbers on the
frame during frame revision and
renumbering. Note the mapping must be
carried out before any revisions are made.
Note: In the example opposite the original

numbering scheme is the second figure in all
the Node and Member numbers.
3.4 The Member Information Editing Area
The member information editing area is used for applying and modifying,
Member Loads – distributed loads and point loads along the member length
Section Properties - defining the material properties and shape of the members
ß Angles - the orientation of the member about its own axis
To access this area select Properties > Sections > Section Size - Member, Global
and Copy to
.
Graphics
Area for
Selecting Selected
Members and Member
Viewing Graphics
Modification
1. You can switch between the member information types by click on the Sections ,
Loads and ß Angle icon at the top right of the screen.
2. In each of these information types you can edit in any one of three modes, namely:
Member , Global or Copy to by selecting the appropriate button at the top right
of the screen.
3. In Member and Global modes, all changes are immediately applied to the highlighted
member/s. In Copy modes changes are only applied when you click on members in the
frame geometry area.
4. To check sections, loads and member orientation use the Global mode to highlight all
members with a particular section, load pattern or ß Angle.
3.5 Defining Member Materials and Section Properties
Select the following Properties > Sections > Section Size - Member, Global and
Copy to. If you are currently in either the Member Loading or Member β angle area
you can shortcut to the Member Properties by clicking on the button at the top right
of the screen.
Initially all members have no section property applied to them, therefore it is necessary
to apply some section properties before analysing.
The most important point to note is that the Member Properties area can be used in
three different modes, i.e. Member , Global and Copy To modes.
Member Mode
Member Mode is the default mode
and perhaps the mode that you will
use most frequently.
In Member mode you can apply and edit section propertied on a member-by-member
basis. To do this,
1. Select the member you want apply or change the section properties on. You can
select a member by,
a. clicking on it in the main frame geometry area, or
b. if you know the member number you wish to edit then you enter the number in
the box, or
c. by selecting the member number from the drop
list
The selected member is highlighted in 3D member profile in the frame geometry
window. For this reason it is recommended not to turn on the global 3D member
profile option from the top tool bar while working in this area.
2. Select a section type from the section editor area, i.e. Steel Sections, Concrete and
Timber (Rectangular, Square, Tee and Circular Sections), Haunched I & Box Sections
or UserSections. See the Section Property Editing area below.
3. Select or define the section you require from the chosen section type.
While in member mode all changes made in the section properties editing area are
automatically applied to the selected member. There is no need to do anything further
such as assigning these properties. All changes made affect the current selected
member only.
When you select a member in member mode, the current section properties of that
member are displayed in the section properties editing area. Therefore member mode
can be used to investigate the current section properties on members.
Global Mode
Global Mode is used only to change

existing section definitions and
cannot be used to apply section
properties where none are defined.
Global Mode is used to change the section properties on a group of member that have
the same section definition applied. In other words global mode can be used to change
all occurrences of the same section property at once.
Global Mode groups member together that have the same section properties. Beneath
the global mode icon the drop list indicates how many different member groups have
been created, i.e. how many different section properties are currently applied in the
frame.
To change section properties while in global mode,
1. Click on the icon to switch to Global mode.

2. Select the existing section property, i.e. member group you wish to change. You can
to this by:
a. Selecting a group from the drop list
. The actual description in the drop list is the
section refence text as interpated by the program. In this example ‘SEC +0028’ is the
steel section refence number in the section database, ‘GR 43’ is the steel grade, while ‘b
0.000 h 0.000’ refers to concrete casing dimensions around the steel section. When a
group is selected the full section property information is displayed in the section property
editing area.
b. Clicking on a member in the frame geomtry area will move to the member
section property group assosiacted with that member.
All the members in a group are highlighted in red on the screen, i.e. the highlighted
members all have the same section size.
3. Change the current section properties using the Section Properties Editing Area.
As in Member Mode the changes are applied automatically, however to all members in
the currently selected group. Once you are finished in Global Mode it is recommended
that you return to the Member Mode.
Copy To Mode
This is one of the most powerful

editing modes, which is used for
copying a section property to a
member or group of members in
one operation.
The key concept in Copy To mode is that the Section Properties Editing Area becomes
the template of information to be pasted onto the members you select. In this sense
the Copy To mode differs greatly from the Member and Global modes in that if you
change information in the section properties editing area, you are not changing any
existing section properties.
To use the Copy To mode,
1. Click on the icon to switch to Copy To mode.

2. Set up the required section information in the section properties editing area
(template). As you edit the section in the template, members that match the modified
template are shown in red. All other members are shown in black
3. Paste this information onto the frame by selecting member(s) in the frame geometry
area. You can select member(s) by,
a. Clicking on individual members.
b. Windowing a group of members
When you select members the section in the template is applied to the members in
black and removed from members in red. Hence the Copy To can be used to add and
remove section properties.
Copy To mode can continue to be used by repeating steps1 and 2.
Important Note: Bear in mind that when you are in Copy To mode that when you select
a member you have changed the section property of that member. It is vitally important
to be aware which editing mode you are in, since haphazardly selecting members while
in Copy To mode could disrupt your model. Remember that in Member and Global
modes, changes are made as you edit. In Copy mode changes are only made when you
click or select members in the frame geometry area.
Tip! When you are finished using Copy To, move back to Member mode. Member
mode is safer in that when you select a member you are not changing the section
property.
You can choose to use these editing modes in your own way and in what ever order
you prefer.
Members where no section properties are applied are drawn with a thin (single pixel
thick) line. Members where a section property has been applied are drawn with a
thicker bold line. In the example below member 1 and 8 have a section property
applied to them, while the remaining members do not.
The Leader-Follower Principle
It is important to note that members with no section definition will use the same section
as the previous member number. If we consider the above example, member 7 has no
section definition; therefore it will use the previous definition, i.e. in the case going back
to member 1. Thus will be the case for members 2 to 6. Similarly members 9 to 72
(maximum member number) will adopt the section property applied to member number
8. Hence if the section size on member 8 changes, so will the properties of member 9 to
72. Member 10 is selected above, and it can be seen that no section is defined in the
section properties editing area, however the section label beneath the selected member
geometry window on the right of the screen shows the section property that it is using.
The ‘Place Sections on all Members’ tool can be used to override the use of the
leader-follower principle in the assignment of sections. In the above example it would
apply a definite section property to members 2 to 6 and 9 to 72 according to the section
property that they are currently assuming (following). To use this option,
1. Click on the button at the top right of the screen

2. Ensure that the ‘Place on All Members’ option is selected
3. Click on ‘Proceed’ to apply definite section properties on all members
4. Click on the ‘Sections Editor’ button to return the section properties area
The leader-follower principle also applies to the definition of β angles. Similarly a

‘Place β angles on all members’ is available to avoid the use of the leader-follower.
The Section Property Editing Area
Steel Sections
The steel section type provides a comprehensive database of structural steel sections.
Select the required steel section type, section size from that type and steel grade from
the three drop lists.
There are a number of options which can be applied to the standard steel sections.
There individual toolbars are activated by clicking on the respective icon:
Compound Section
Concrete Casing Cellular Design
Section Type Section Dimensions
Double Member
Section side profile Steel Grade
Section Side Profile: This specifies any

specific side profile such as a haunch at
each end.
Double Member: This will specify two of

the selected sections to the selected
member.
Concrete Casing: This will create a

concrete casing of the steel section. The
height, width and cube strength of the
casing be specified in the drop down
menu.
Compound Section: This option can

specify a variety of structures that can be
added to the original section such as
top/bottom plates and secondary sections.
Cellular Design: The basic dimensions
of the cellular section can be specified
such as cellular hole spacing, cellular hole
diameter and distance from top of slab to
top of opening. Holes that are close to
critical locations can also be filled in
automatically.
Section Type: Specify the type of section
required for the member. i.e. UB, UC,
RHS etc
Grade: Specify the grade of steel used
for each member
Section Size: This specifies the overall

geometry of the chosen section shape.
The double haunch option allows you to specify haunch lengths (m) and haunch depths
from either end of the member. End 1 is always the lower node number of the
member. The haunch depths are specified by a H/D ration, where H is the overall
depth of the member (including the haunch) at the node point and D is the depth of the
chosen section size.
N1 N2
H D
H
Dep1
Dep2
XH1 XH2
The lengths of the haunches are measured along the local member axis, however by
checking the Measure Haunch on Plan box the haunches will be measured along
the horizontal X-Z plane. This will obviously only be of influence in non-horizontal
members.
The mm H/D option allows the overall depth of the haunches to be specified in mm,
as opposed to an H/D ratio.
The Swap Dim button simple swaps the haunch length and depth information fro
the two ends.
The single haunch option differs from the double haunch in that you enter the uniform
length of the member from end 1 and end 2. The haunch depth is specified in the
same way as for the double haunch member.
H N1 D N2
H
Dep1
Dep2
XH1 XH2
Member Properties : Steel Sections (Including Single and Double Haunch).
Concrete and Timber

This section type provides option to specify regular shaped section with a particular E
(elastic modulus) and G (shear modulus) value. Although this option is most commonly
used for modelling concrete and timber sections, it can also be used to model regular
shaped sections of any other material by entering the appropriate E and G value.
To use this section type,
1. Chose one of the regular section types from the buttons at
the bottom right of the screen.
2. Choose a material type from the Steel, Concrete, Sawn Timber, Planed Timber
and Regular Timber options. This has the effect of setting the appropriate E and G
values in the text boxes.
When a timber material is selected
further parameters are available
regarding timber grade, no. of pieces and
service class. Note that only the
rectangular, square and circular section
shapes are available in timber.
3. Select or enter the section dimensions. You

can enter any dimensions you wish in the white coloured text boxes, or you can select a
dimension form the blue coloured drop list. The only difference between the sawn,
planed and regular timber property options is the preset section dimensions that are
available in the drop lists.
General Haunched I and Box Sections
This section type allows you to model

a I or box shaped single haunched
member, which tapers from one user
defined cross section dimension to
another. For normal haunched rolled
steel sections it is recommended to
use
the Steel Sections type as described above. These sections are used for analysis
purposes only and not integrated design.
To use the haunched I and Box Sections,

1. Firstly enter the two cross section dimensions in the Edit DimSet area.
a. Click on the Edit DimSet button
b. Select whether you want to view the input dimension in an I or Box section
format
c. Using the graphic at the bottom left of the screen as a guide, enter one of the
cross section dimension in the B, H, b and h text boxes
d. Each cross section you enter need to be saved to the DimSet library. Each
cross section must have a unique DimSet Number between 1 and 30. Enter a
number that is not current being used. You can use the blue coloured drop list to
view the exiting items in the DimSet library.
e. Click on the Save to Library button. The items in the DimSet library are then
available for use on any other member.
f. Repeat steps c to e for further cross sections

g. Click on Exit Edit
2. Choose the I-Section or Boxed Section option

3. Choose the Cross section DimSet for end 1 and end 2
4. Enter the uniform length of the member from end 1 and end 2
5. Enter the Material E (elastic modulus) and G (shear modulus ) values
User Sections
This section type is based purely on the user defined basic section properties of area,
inertia, modulus etc. The main principle in successfully using user sections is that they
must be saved to a library. The library can be local to the current file only where that
saved section can only be used in that file. Alternatively sections can be saved to an
open library in which case the saved user sections become available in all files.
To add a user section to a library,
1. Enter the basic section properties in the Area, Ix, Iy, J, E and G text boxes
2. Each section in the either the local or open library must have unique reference
number between 1 and 999. The blue coloured drop list shows the sections that are
currently saved to the local or open library, depending on which option ‘Local to this file’
or ‘Open Library UserSEC’ is selected. You can use this list to determine what section
reference number is available for use. Enter an available section number.
3. Enter the name of the section as a descriptor that will appear in the blue drop list.
4. Click on either ‘Save Local’ or ‘Save to Library’ (Open)
To apply a saved user section to a member

1. Select which library you want to use using the ‘Local to this file’ or ‘Open Library
UserSEC’ options.
2. Select the saved user section from the blue drop list.
3.6 Member Orientation
The β Angles defines the member orientation and affects the direction of normal to
member loads (N and M loads). The β Angle can be thought of as how the member is
orientated about its own axis. If any member in space is thought to be initially positioned
on the X axis, then in order to position the member in the correct position in space it is
firstly rotated horizontally, i.e. the α angle. Secondly it is rotated vertically, i.e. the γ
angle to achieve the final position. The β Angle can be seen to perform the final rotation
of the member about the axis running along the member lenght.
With the member in the initial X axis position, a Beta Angle of zero can be thought of
orientating the member to bend vertically about its stronger major axis (xx axis). The
sign convention of the β Angle rotation is best understood by placing your eye looking
form the member’s smaller node number towards the larger node number, then a
positive rotation occurs in the anticlockwise direction.
Important: As with the section properties, initially all members are assumed to have no
definite β angle value applied to them and therefore assume a default value of zero. In
the Member Orientation Editing area a definite β Angle of any value can be applied to a
member. It is important to be aware that the same Leader-Follower principle applies to
β Angle definitions as for section properties. That is if a member does not have definite
β Angle value applied to it, then it used the last definition on the previous member
number. For example if there was a frame with ten members and no definite Beta angle
was applied to any of the members then all the β angles would be assumed to be zero.
If a definite β angle of say 90° was applied to only member number 5, then members 6-
10 (followers) would use the β angle of 90° applied to member 5 (leader), while
members 1 to 4 would continue to use the default zero.
Tip: The ‘Place β angles on all members’ option can be used to place a definite β
angle an all members according to what they are currently assuming (following), hence
eliminating the use of the leader follower principle. You may find it more convenient to
do this initially, placing a definite zero β angle on all members, therefore making the β
angles of all member independent.
To access the Member Orientation Editing area select Properties > Orientation (β
angle) > β Angle – Rotate β, Member, Global and Copy to. If you are currently in
either the Member Loading or Member Section Properties area you can shortcut to the
Member Orientation by clicking on the button at the top right of the screen.
Note: The current member orientations can be displayed by clicking on .
In plane frames and

grillages the default β value
of zero causes all members
to bend about their major
axis only.
In plane frames and
grillages you can only use ß
values of 0, 90, 180 and
270 degrees.
The Member Orientation Editing area can be used in three different modes, i.e.
Member , Global and Copy To mode.
Member Mode
In Member mode you can apply and edit β angles on a member-by-member basis. To
do this,
2. Ensure that the ‘Rotate β by’ is set to zero
3. Select the member you want to apply or change the β angle on. You can select a
member by,
d. clicking on it in the main frame geometry area, or
e. if you know the member number you wish to edit then you enter the number in
the box, or
f. by selecting the member number from the drop list

window. For this reason it is recommended not to turn on the global 3D member
profile option from the top tool bar while working in this area.
2. If the member does not already have a definite β angle applied to it there will be an
‘Add β’ button at the bottom left of the screen. Click on this button to apply a definite β
angle to the member. The ‘Current β value’ text box will appear.
3. Edit the value in the in the ‘Current β value’ text box to change the β angle. As you
do this the both the selected member in the frame geometry area and the selected
member graphics window will graphically indicate the new member orientation.
All changes made affect the current selected member only.
When you select a member in member mode, the current β angle of that member is
displayed in the ‘Current β value’ text box. For members that do not have definite β
angle applied the assumed (followed) beta angle is displayed after the section size
label at the bottom left of the screen. Therefore member mode can be used to
investigate the current β angles on members.
While in member mode the option can also be used to change a

member’s β angle. By entering a value in this text box, then clicking on a member, the
member will be rotated by this value. Repeated clicks on the same member will
continue to increment its β angle by the entered amount. Again all changes are shown
graphically as the changes are made.
Global Mode
Global mode is used only to change

existing β angles and cannot be
used to apply β angles where none
are defined.
Global mode is used to change the β angle on a group of member that have the same
β angle applied. In other words global mode can be used to change all occurrences of
the same β angle at once.
Global mode groups members together that have the same β angle. Beneath the
global mode icon the drop list indicates how many different member groups have been
created, i.e. how many different β angles are currently applied in the frame.
To change β angles while in global mode,
5. Select the existing β angle, i.e. member group you wish to change. You can to this
by,
a. Selecting a group from the drop list .

b. Clicking on a member in the frame geomtry area will move to the member β angle
group assosiacted with that member.
The members in the group are highlighted in red on the screen, i.e. the highlighted
members all have the same β angle.
6. Change the β angle for the selected group using the text box at
the bottom right of the screen.
As in member mode the changes are applied automatically, however to all members in
the currently selected group. Once you are finished in Global mode it is recommended
that you return to the Member mode.
Copy To Mode

copying a single β angle to a
member or group of members in
one operation.
The key concept in Copy To mode is that the value in the box
becomes the β angle to be pasted onto the members you select. In this sense the
Copy To mode differs greatly from the Member and Global modes in that if you change
the ‘Current β Value’, you are not changing any existing β angles.
5. Set up the required β angle in the box. As you edit the β angle
value in the box, members that match the ‘current β value’ entered are shown in red.
All other members are shown in black
When you select members the ‘current β value’ is applied to the members in black and
removed from members in red. Hence the Copy To can be used to add and remove β
angles.
Copy To mode can continue to be used by repeating steps1 and 2.
a member you have changed the β angle of that member. It is vitally important to be
aware which editing mode you are in, since haphazardly selecting members while in
Copy To mode could disrupt your model. Remember that in Member and Global
mode is safer in that when you select a member you are not changing anything by
doing so.
Member Orientation: Beta angle
3.7 The Nodal Information Area
The Nodal Information Area is a common style of interface used for specifying both nodal
loads and nodal end conditions as follows.
• Nodal Loading sets the magnitude and direction of any nodal loads
• Static Supports (RS) sets the boundary conditions at each support
• Spring Supports sets the elastic supports conditions in areas of non-zero stiffness
• Support Settlements sets a prescribed nodal displacement to selected nodes
How does the Nodal Information Area works:

1. There are four buttons to allow you to switch between the four types of nodal information,
namely: Nodal Loading, Static Supports, Spring Supports and Support
Settlements;
2. For each type of nodal information the main combo list lists all the relevant briefs;
3. As you select a brief from the main combo list, all the data in the edit area are reset and all
the relevant nodes are highlighted in red;
4. You can change the current brief data and/or the nodes to which the current brief applies;
5. Click on the Add New button to add new brief;
6. Click on the Delete button to delete the current brief;
7. Use the Sort spin grey, , button to move the current brief up or down in the combo list;
8. Use the Show All button to switch between displaying the current brief and all the nodal
information.
To add a new nodal information brief:

1. Click on the Add New button to add new brief;
2. Set the load group;
3. Click on the Apply to Nodes button to place the cursor in the nodes list text box.
4. Select the nodes to which the new brief applies. This can be done either by cross
windowing a group of nodes, or by individually selecting nodes in the graphics area.
5. Edit the brief data, where it be nodal loads, static supports, spring supports or
prescribed nodal displacements.
Brief Data Current Brief
Specific Load Group

Load Group Category
Each definition consists of a list of Nodes, the load/support definitions and a load group
(i.e. D1, L1, UT).
To define another set of loads/supports you must first select Add New, and if necessary
click Reset to clear list of currently selected nodes. Then define the node list, the new
load/support type and its load group.
To move between the four types of nodal information use the four buttons provided or
alternatively select the option from the Nodal Information drop-down menu.
3.8.4 Nodal Loading

3.9.2.1 Static Supports
3.9.2.1 Spring Supports
3.9.2.3 Support Settlements (Prescribed Nodal Displacements)
3.8 Structural Loading
3.8.1 Load Groups, Loading Cases and Combinations….The General Approach
Codes of Practice demand that structures are designed to sustain dead, live, wind and
notional loads under both service and ultimate conditions. These loads are combined
using various load factors to produce a variety of loading cases. It is essential therefore
to differentiate between the various types of loads applied to the frame so that they can
easily be combined to produce any number of loading cases.
In many instances, it is necessary not only to distinguish between dead, live and wind
loading but also between various types in each category. For example, when
considering the design of concrete beams under alternate loading, it will be necessary
to differentiate between the dead load on odd spans (1, 3, 5, .. etc.) and on even spans
(2, 4, 6, .. etc.). The same rule applies to the live loads. In portal frames you may need
to distinguish between side wind with internal suction, side wind with internal pressure,
gable wind with internal suction and gable wind with internal pressure.
MasterSeries enables you to distinguish between the various types of loads using a set
of 41 load groups with unique labels as follows:
D0 D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 D6 D7 D8 D9
L0 L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 L6 L7 L8 L9
W0 W1 W2 W3 W4 W5 W6 W7 W8 W9
N0 N1 N2 N3 N4 N5 N6 N7 N8 N9
UT Unity load factor for loads and other conditions which apply in all loading
cases.
Each load group can be given a title to describe the loads under its umbrella. It is
important to understand that a Load Group can have many different shapes and
intensities of load in it. The only requirement is that all loads in a single load group
must all be applied to the structure at the same time and be multiplied by the same
Load Factor.
A good example of a Load Group is “Wind blowing on the side of a building”. Each
face will have a different load intensity and some will be X-Axis Loads some will be N-
Axis (normal to member) Loads. Indeed some of the loads could be partial UDL’s or
Triangular Loads but they are all in the same Load Group (e.g. W1) as they occur
simultaneously.
3.8.2 Loading Cases Menu
Load Cases and Combination Examples
Example 1: Continuous Beams and Multi-Storey Frames
1. Load Group D1 : Dead Loads on odd spans
2. Load Group L1 : Live Loads on odd spans
3. Load Group D2 : Dead Loads on even spans
4. Load Group L2 : Live Loads on even spans
5. Load Group UT : Supports Conditions
Note : The UT Load Factor is always applied to all Loading Cases.
The following loading cases are then considered:

Case
01 All Spans Loaded 1.4 D1 + 1.6 L1 + 1.4 D2 + 1.6 L2 + 1.0 UT
02 Alternate Spans Loaded I 1.4 D1 + 1.6 L1 + 1.0 D2 + 0.0 L2 + 1.0 UT
03 Alternate Spans Loaded II 1.0 D1 + 0.0 L1 + 1.4 D2 + 1.6 L2 + 1.0 UT
Example 2: Portal Frames

In portal frames the following load groups are considered:
1. Load Group D1 : Dead Loads
2. Load Group L1 : Live Loads
3. Load Group W1 : Wind Loads on Side
4. Load Group W2 : Wind Loads on Gable
5. Load Group L2 : Vertical Crane Loads
6. Load Group L3 : Horizontal Crane Loads
The following loading cases might then be considered:

Load Loading Case Title Loading Combination
Case
01 Dead plus Live (including vertical crane loads) 1.4 D1 + 1.6 L1 + 1.6 L2 + 1.0 UT
02 Dead plus Live plus Side Wind plus Crane 1.2 D1 + 1.2 L1 + 1.20 W1 + 1.2 L2 + 1.2 L3 + 1.0
03 Dead plus Live plus Crane (Vertical +Horizontal) 1.4 D1 + 1.6 L1 + 1.4 L2 + 1.4 L3 + 1.0 UT
04 Dead plus Live plus Horizontal Crane Loads 1.4 D1 + 1.6 L1 + 1.6 L3 + 1.0 UT
05 Dead plus Side Wind plus Horizontal Crane Loads 1.0 D1 + 1.40 W1 + 1.4 L3 + 1.0 UT
The diagram on the following page shows the 4 load groups used in the analysis of a
typical single bay portal frame. The loads illustrated are divided into the following Load
Groups
1. Load Group D1 : Dead Loads including heating panels
2. Load Group L1 : Live Loads
3. Load Group W1 : Wind Loads on Side
4. Load Group W2 : Wind Loads on Gable
The following Loading Cases might then be considered:

Case
01 Dead plus Live (ULS) 1.4 D1 + 1.6 L1 + 1.0 UT
02 Dead plus Live plus Side Wind (ULS) 1.2 D1 + 1.2 L1 + 1.2 W1 + 1.0 UT
03 Dead plus Gable Wind (ULS) 1.0 D1 + 1.4 W2 + 1.0 UT
04 Live Load Only (SLS) 1.0 L1+ 1.0 UT
05 Dead plus Live plus Side Wind (SLS) 1.0 D1+ 1.0 L1 + 1.0 W1 + 1.0 UT
ULS: Ultimate Limit State SLS: Serviceability Limit State
Example 3 : Flexible Foundation on Varying Spring Support

In this case the following load groups are considered:
1. Load Group D1 : Dead Load
2. Load Group L1 : Live Load
3. Load Group N1 : Spring Supports with infinite stiffness
4. Load Group N2 : Spring Supports with 100,000 kN/m stiffness
The following loading cases might then be considered:

Case
01 Infinite stiffness 1.4 D1 + 1.6 L1 + 1.00 N1
02 100,000 kN/m stiffness 1.4 D1 + 1.6 L1 + 1.00 N2
3.8.2 Loads Cases
The Load Cases Menu gives you access to the various

elements of the MasterFrame Titles and Load
Combinations Menu.
Load Group Titles
To edit the load group titles, select "Load Group Titles" from the Loads Menu.
To increase efficiency, you can save load group titles
in a special library using the Add button and then
retrieve them from the combo list in any other project.
You can delete items no longer required using the
Del button.
In addition to all the standard methods of editing text

common to all Windows applications, you can use the
special button provided.
Supports and Load Groups

Support conditions which apply to all loading cases should be assigned load group UT
(Unity Load Factor). If any other load group is used (such as N1, N2 etc.) then the
condition will only apply to the loading cases in which the corresponding load factor is
set to a value other than zero.
Usually all Nodal Supports are defined with a UT Load Group. A Nodal Support is no
different from any other load in that it will only be active in a loading case if it’s Load
Group is active (i.e. not zero) in the Loading Case.
The default Nodal Support Load Group UT is active in all Loading Cases and means
that the support is always present.
Loading Case Titles (Number of)
This area allows you to edit, add, delete, import and sort loading case titles.
To increase efficiency, you can save case
titles and their load combination in a special
library using the Add button and then
retrieve them from the combo list in any
other project. You can delete items no
longer required from this library using the
Del button.
The cluster of buttons from Dead through to
(Serviceability) are quick typing button that
insert the chosen word into the Loading
Case Title text box.
To add a new loading case:

1. Press the Add Case button
2. Type in the new title in the Loading Case Title text box. Remember you can use the
quick typing buttons.
3. Define the loading combination. See instructions below on using the Loading
Combination tab.
To create a Serviceability loading case from a current Ultimate loading case:

1. Press the Add Service button
This will generate an additional loading case with the same title, however with
(Serviceability) at the end. The load combination is also copied with all load factors for
the new case set to 1.0.
To save a loading case to the standard loading cases library:

1. Select the case you wish to save
2. Make sure that you have the correct load factors in the load combination
3. Press the Add button
To add new case as a copy of an existing case:
1. Select case you want to copy from the top drop list
2. Press the Copy Case button
4. Press the Paste Case button
To import a loading case from the standard loading cases library:
2. Select the appropriate case from the library
3. Press the Retrieve button
To delete a loading case:

1. Press the Delete Case button
Import Loading Cases
You can import loading case titles, combinations

and load group titles from previous projects.
You can choose to add the selected load group

titles and loading cases including their load
combinations.
Alternatively you can choose to replace the

current loading cases by the selected ones.
To import loading cases from another file
1. Press the Import Case Button

2. Select the file you wish to import from
3. Select the loading cases you wish to import from the top window
4. Select the load group titles you wish to import from the second window
5. Select the Add… or Replace… option
Press the Import Selected Items button
Load Combinations
In the Loading Combination area, you can

define the load factor for each of the load
groups that you wish to include in the
particular loading case.
Load Combinations allow you to assign load

factors to the load groups in the various
loading cases.
When a new file is created MasterFrame will

always generate a number of default loading
cases and associated loading combination.
The MasterFrame standard defaults include
Dead plus Live (Ultimate) and Live Only
(Serviceability) cases.
To define a load factor for a load group in the current loading combination:
1. Select the appropriate loading case using the drop down list or spin button. Hence at
this stage the load case has already been added using the Loading Cases (No. Of) tab.
See above.
2. Select the load group you wish to define. For example if you wish to include the D1
loading group, then select the Dead category and load set 1 (as shown).
3. Assign a load factor to the selected load group by entering a value in the
text box at the bottom right hand corner of the tab. The spin button adjacent to the text
box can also be used to scroll though a list of standard load factors. Once a non-zero
load factor is given to a load group, it should appear the main blue coloured load
combination window.
To remove a load group from the load combination:
1. Select the load group you wish to remove, either by using the Dead, Live… and 1, 2,
3… option at the bottom of the tab, or by simply clicking on the load group item in the
blue load combination window.
2. Assign a zero value to its load factor using the text box. This can also be
done by pressing the Del button to the left of the text box.
All the load factors defined in the current Loading Combinations are multiplied by the
Global Factor (Usually set to 1.000), which is independent for each loading case. The
Global Factor enables you to investigate structures under incremental loading, for
example 90% of the loads (just change the Global Load Factor to 0.90).
The options are only applicable when using the integrated

MasterKey Wind Analysis to BS 6399 program for the calculation and application of the
wind loading.
Suspending Loading Cases

Options are provided the Cases> Loading Combinations area for suspending loading
cases, which means loading cases that have been set up will not be analysed. The
main benefit of this function is to save analysis time by ignoring certain loading cases
that may not be needed just yet. The benefit of suspending loading case, rather than
deleting them, is obviously that the loading cases do not have to be recreated when
they are needed again. An example of where the suspend options could be useful is if
you had a model with a large number of member and fifty loading cases, and the only
item you wish to investigate at this moment in time is the support reactions from
loading case 10. By suspending all cases but number 10, the analysis will complete in
approximately 1/50th of the time.
You can suspend loading cases by either,
1. For an individual case, select the case you want to suspend then check the
box
2. For a group of cases press the Suspend button. A list of all loading cases will
appear. Select the items in the list you wish to suspend. You can use the Select and
Deselect All buttons to help you. Finally press the Suspend button in this area.
Frame Loading Data – Global Density
You can specify the density to allow for

automatic inclusion of member self weight.
Simply select the correct density button or
enter a density value (kN/m3). The density
loading can be viewed using the D button
filter in the frame load diagram . The
density load is assigned to the chosen load
group, therefore enabling it to be isolated
from other dead loads.
Dimensions of concrete casing can be specified for steel sections in the section
property editing area. The compressive strength Fcu (N/mm2), elastic modulus E
(kN/mm2) and density D (kN/m3) of the concrete material is defined here.
3.8.5 Live Load Reduction
The Area Loading option is a feature of the 3D Model Manager.
4 The MasterSeries 3D Model Manager
Analysis Options
The Notional Loads allows you to

automatically apply a specified percentage
of the factored vertical loads in one loading
case and add them as a horizontal notional
load to any subsequent loading case.
This is done though the use of the ‘Find

Load’ option, which purely calculates a
specified percentage of the factored
vertical load in the current load case. Note
that the notional loads are not applied in
this loading case, only calculated. In a
subsequent loading case the notional
loads are added by selecting the Add Load
option.
An example of a set of loading casing using horizontal notional loads on a space frame
structure is shown below.
No. Loading Case Addition Notional loads Horizontal direction of
Combination Notional Loads
01 1.4 D1 + 1.6 L1 0.5% of factor Dead + Live Loads 0 degrees from global X axis
02 1.0 L1 None N/A
03 No loads 0.5% of factored Dead + Live 0 degrees from global X axis
Loads
04 No loads 0.5% of factored Dead + Live 90 degrees from global X
Loads axis
05 No Loads 1.0% of factored Dead Loads 0 degrees from global X axis
To achieve these combinations the loading cases in MasterFrame are set up as follows
No. No. in Loading Case Notional Load option Percentage and Angle
table Combination selected
above
01 1.4 D1 + 1.6 L1 + 1.0 UT
02 02 1.0 L1 + 1.0 UT N/A
03 01 1.4 D1 + 1.6 L1 + 1.0 UT
04 03 + 1.0 UT
05 04 + 1.0 UT
06 1.4 D1 + 1.0 UT
07 05 + 1.0 UT
Here we can see that there are more loading cases that those required. This is
because loading cases 1 and 6 are needed to calculate (find) the required horizontal
notional loads. Note that horizontal notional loads cannot be found and added in the
same loading case. The Add Load option applies the last set of notional loads that
have been found.
Important: The application of horizontal notional loads should not be confused with
the notional loads groups N0 to N9. They are not connected in any way. The notional
load groups are standard load groups that are used for loads that may not be Dead,
Live or Wind. The horizontal notional loads are independent from any of the load
groups and do not appear in the Load Combinations area.
After the frame has been analysed the calculated values of the horizontal notional load
can be viewed in the frame data file. From the main MasterFrame menu select Data>
View Data.
Co-efficient of Thermal Expansion
From the Cases> Notional Loads and P-Delta area you can define a global value for
the co-efficient of thermal expansion for all members in the structure. Thermal
expansion effects are only mobilised when a value of temperature differential is applied
to a member. This is done in the standard member loading area.
3.8.3 Member loads
Before reading the following section it may be advantageous to review the general
member information section.
3.4 The Member Information Editing Area
From the Loads Menu select Member Loading and then Member Loading –
Member, Global and Copy to. If you are currently in either the Member Section
Properties or Member β angle area you can shortcut to the Member Properties by
clicking on the button at the top right of the screen.
Member
Load
editing
area
Member Load Application Area
The Member Loading area can be used in three different modes, i.e. Member ,
Global and Copy To modes, in very similar fashion to the section properties and
member orientation areas.
Member Mode
In Member mode you can apply and edit section propertied on a member-by-member
basis. To do this,
4. Select the member you want to apply or change the section properties on. You can
select a member by,
g. clicking on it in the main frame geometry area, or
h. if you know the member number you wish to edit then you enter the number in the
box, or
i. by selecting the member number from the drop list

window. For this reason it is recommended not to turn on the global 3D member profile
option from the top tool bar while working in this area.
2. Using the Member Loading application buttons apply the desired load types on the
member. The loads will appear in the list of loads in the loads editing area.
3. Use the Loads Editing Area define the magnitude, direction and load group of each
load. See Using the Loads Editing Area below.
While in member mode all changes made in the loads editing area are automatically
applied to the selected member. All changes made affect the current selected member
only.
When you select a member in member mode, the current member loads on that
member are listed in the loads editing area. Therefore member mode can be used to
investigate the current loads on members.
Global Mode
Global mode is used to change the

member loads on a group of
member that have the same pattern
of loads or single load applied. In
other words global mode can be
used to change all occurrences of
the same single load/load pattern at
once.
Global mode groups member together that have the same single load or load pattern
depending on which option is selected. Beneath the global mode icon the drop list
indicates how many different member groups have been created, i.e. how may different
single load/load patterns are currently applied in the frame.
The difference between the single load and load pattern options is best understood by
the following simple example. The four members shown have member loads applied to
them.
While in Global (Load Pattern) mode the program will create a group of the members
that have the same configuration of loads applied. Hence here three groups will be
generated comprising of,
Member Load Group 001 – M1
Member Load Group 002 – M2 and
M3
Member Load Group 003 – M4
No Loads – in this example there
are no members in the group since
all members are loaded.
When in Global (Single Load) mode the members that have the same single item of
load applied will be grouped together. Since in this example only two different items of
load exists only two groups have been created.
D1 UDLY –005.00 (kN/m) – M1,
M2 & M3
L1 UDLY –007.00 (kN/m) – M2,
M3 & M4
To change member loads while in global mode,
8. Select to work in either single load or load pattern, depending on how you wish to
change your loads.
9. Select the existing Single Load/ Load Pattern you wish to change from the drop list.
Tip: When in Load Pattern mode a group may be selected by clicking on a member in
the frame geomtry area.
The members in the group are highlighted in red on the screen, i.e. the highlighted
members all have the same single load or pattern of loads.
10. Edit the member loads in the loads editing area. Items of load can also be either
added of deleted. See Using the Loads Editing Area below.
As in member mode the changes are applied automatically, however to all members in
the currently selected group. Once you are finished in Global mode it is recommended
that you return to the Member mode.
Copy To Mode

copying an arrangement of member
load(s) to a member or group of
members in one operation.
The key concept in Copy To mode is that the List of Loads in the Loads Editing Area
becomes the template of information to be pasted onto the members you select. In this
sense the Copy To mode differs greatly from the Member and Global modes in that if
you change information in the List of Loads, you are not changing any existing loads on
the frame. Copy To can be used can be used in either Add/Delete or Replace Loads
mode.
In Copy To (Add/Delete) mode the loads in the template (list of loads) are applied to
selected members in addition to any existing loads. If the loads that are being copied
already exist on a selected member then the loads are deleted from that member.
In Copy To (Replace Loads) mode the loads that are being copied will replace any
existing loads on the selected members.
8. Select to work in either Add/Delete or Replace Loads.
9. Set up the loads to be copied in the template. This can be done either by,
a. Selecting an existing pattern of loads (Member Load Template) or existing
single load from the drop list.
b. Using the Loads Editing Area.
As you edit the loads in the template, members that match the modified template are
shown in red. All other members are shown in black
In Copy To (Add/Delete) mode, when you select members the loads in the template are
applied to the members in black and removed from members in red. Hence the Copy
To can be used to add and remove member loads.
Copy To mode can continue to be used by repeating steps 3 and 4.
a member you have changed the loads on that member. It is vitally important to be
aware which editing mode you are in, since haphazardly selecting members while in
Copy To mode could disrupt your model. Remember that in Member and Global
mode is safer in that when you select a member you are not changing anything by
doing so.
Using The Loads Editing Area

The list of loads in the editing area represents the loads on the selected member when
in Member mode, the loads on a group of members when in Global mode, and the
loads to be copied to members when in Copy To mode.
To add loads to the list
click on one of the loads
type application buttons.
Each of these loads
types is described in
further detail below.
The loads added will appear on the list on the right of the
screen. The load definition in the list will contain
information about its Load Group, load type, direction,
magnitude, and dimensions (where applicable).
A typical example of a member point load PY is shown

below.
D1 PY -050.000 1.520 (kN,m) where,

D1 Load Group – Dead Load in Load Set 1
P Load Type. Non-editable.
Y Load direction
- Load sign and magnitude
050.000
1.520 Distance of the point loads from end1 (lower node number) of the member
(kN,m) Indicates the units for the numerical values in the load type. In this case we
can see that the first value is a load in kN’s, while the second value is
distance in m’s. Non-editable.
The items in the list of loads can be directly edited from the keyboard. Any editable
item can be changed by clicking on the relevant text to position the red cursor. Text
can be directly entered from the keyboard starting from the location of the red cursor.
The position of the red cursor can be changed using the mouse or using the arrow keys
on the keyboard. Note that it is not possible to enter an invalid character for load group
and load direction.
To edit a load that has been added to the list:
1. Firstly select the load in the list by clicking on any character in the load definition
2. The load group can be changed by either,
a. selecting the load group and load set from the drop lists at the bottom right of
the screen , or
b. Over-typing the load group text ,e.g. D1, in the load definition. Click on D to
place the red cursor and then type one of the load group letters, i.e. D, L, W or N. The
red cursor will move to the number, where a number between 0 and 9 can be typed.
The items in the drop list below should change to reflect what has been entered.
3. The load direction can be changed by either,
a. Clicking on one of the load direction buttons at the bottom
right of the screen.
b. Typing the load direction directly in the load definition by entering X, Y, W, Z,
N or M from the keyboard. The load direction types are described in more detail below.
4. Change the numerical values of load magnitude or load distances directly in the load
definition from the key board. Note that the position of the decimal posit in a value can
be changed. The buttons can also be used to change the sign of the forces in the
load definition.
To delete a load
3.8.2 Select the load in the list by clicking on any character in the load definition
3.8.3 Press the at the bottom left of the screen
Other option in loads editing area include
For some items in the load list, the order that they appear in
the list can influence their effect. The sort spin button will
move the selected load’s position in the list.
By clicking on the horizontal spin button to the right of the text
box the currently selected load will move on the member by
the increment in meters specified in the text box. Only
member loads with distance definitions are influenced by this
function.
This spin button will change the load group of all the loads in
the list in the order of D, L, W and N. For example if we have
two loads in the list with load groups D1 and L2, then these
would be changed to L1 and W2.
This spin button will increase or decrease the load set number
of all the loads in the list. Again taking the example, as above,
the load sets could be changes to D2 and L3.
Only applicable if loading has been applied using the 3D
Model Manager. This function will convert all 3D Model
Manager loads on the current member to standard
MasterFrame member loads.
Convert 3D Model Manager loads on all members to standard

member loads.
Graphical Display of Loads in the Editor

The loads in the list are graphically
displayed in the Selected Member
graphics window at the top right of
the screen.
The graphical display is controlled
by the options at the bottom right of
the screen.
Draw Current Member will display a
load diagram of the total loads on
the member, while the Draw
Current Load option will only
display the load that is currently
selected in the list.
Spin button to graphically move the origin of the load(s) relative to the
centre line of the member
Increase (up button) /decrease (down button) the graphical scale of the
distributed member loads
Increase (up button) /decrease (down button) the graphical scale of the
point member loads
Display numerical value of current member load or total member loads
depending on which Draw Current option is selected. The value displayed
is always in kN/m nits for the distributed load and kN for point loads.
If the loads are not visible it may be their graphical scale needs to be increased.
Tip: The thick blue line on one side of the distributed member load diagram can be
thought of as the arrowhead of the load direction, while the side where the value is
displayed is the tail of the arrow. This will help to clarify the load direction.
The frame load diagram can also be displayed which draws all the loads for the current
frame view in the frame geometry area. Press the button in the top tool bar . See
section 3.2 The Top Tool bar for further description of this utility.
Load Directions
Each member load type can have a number of different load directions. In a load
definition the load direction is indicated by the character at the end of the load type.
For example in the load definition,
D1 UDLY -050.000 (kN/m)
UDL is the load type and Y is the load direction. The various different load directions
are described below.
Y Global Y axis, where a negative value of load acts downwards. In the case of
distributed loads the load is applied over the horizontal projected length of the
member.
X Global X axis, where a
positive value of load
acts from left to right. In
the case of distributed
loads the load is applied
over the length of the
member projected onto
the YZ plane.
Z Global Z axis, where a
positive value of load
acts from front to back.
In the case of distributed
loads the load is applied
over the length of the
member projected onto
the XY plane.
W Y direction distributed
load calculated for true
member length and not
just the X-Z plane
projection. Useful for
applied self-weight UDL
in kN/m units.
This load direction is only
applicable to the UDL
load type
N Load direction normal to
the major axis of the
member.
The positive direction of
the load depends on the
node numbering of the
member, and is found by
rotating 90 deg anti-
clockwise from direction
of member from lower to
higher node.
Where n1 is the lower

node number.
M Load direction normal to
the minor axis of the
member.
Tip: When unsure about the load direction or sign convention it is best to rely on
graphical validation since this will always be correct.
Member Load Types

When one of the member
load type buttons are
pressed, the associated
load type is added to the
list in the loads editing
area. The use of the
loads editing area is
described above. The
purpose and format of
each of the load types is
described here.
Standard Member Loads

In the following descriptions the load direction indicator in the load definition is
underlined, e.g. in UDLY the Y character defines the load direction.
UDLY Applies a uniformly distributed load W (kN/m) over the full length of the
member.
D1 UDLY -000.000 ( kN/m )
W (kN/m)
PY Applies a point load F in the specified load direction at a distance x

measured along the member axis from the lower node number.
D1 PY –000.000 0.000 ( kN,m )
F(kN) x(m)
PDLY Applies a partially distributed load W based on the total load F between the
x1 and x2 dimensions measured along the member axis from the lower
node number.
D1 PDLY –000.000 0.000 0.000 (kN,m,m)
F (kN) x1(m) x2(m)
TY1,2 The total load F is distributed over the full member length in a triangular
pattern. The distributed load varies from the maximum intensity W(kN/m) at
one end of the member to zero intensity at the other end. For TY1the W
occurs at end 1 of the member, and for TY2 W occurs at end 2 of the
member. W = F * 2 /L.
D1 TY1 -000.000 ( kN )
F (kN)
TYC The total load F is distributed over the full member length in a triangular
pattern. The distributed load varies from zero at one end to the maximum
intensity W(kN/m) at the centre of the member, then back to zero at the
other end . W = F * 2 /L.
D1 TYC -000.000 ( kN )
F (kN)
PTRY Applies a partially distributed triangular load starting at a distance x1 with

the intensity W1 going to the distance x2 with the intensity W2. All distances
are measured from the lower node number.
D1 PTRY –000.000 0.000 0.000 –000.000
W1(kN/m) x1(m) x2(m) W2(kN/m)
TRY The total load F is distributed over the full member length in a trapezoidal
pattern. The distributed load varies from zero at end 1 to the maximum
intensity W(kN/m) at the x1 distance, remaining at that intensity to the x2
distance, then returning to zero ant end 2 of the member.
D1 TRY -000.000 0.000 0.000 (kN,m,m)
F (kN) x1(m) x2(m)
PTY1 The total load F is distributed over a partial length of the member in a
triangular pattern. The distributed load varies from the maximum intensity
W(kN/m) at a distance of x1(m) along the member to zero intensity at the
x2(m) distnace end. All distances are measured from the lower node
number. W = F * 2 /(x2-x1).
D1 PTY1 -000.000 0.000 0.000 (kN,m,m)
F (kN) x1(m) x2(m)
PTY2 As per PTY1, however with the zero intensity located at x1 and the
maximum intensity W (KN/m) located at the x2.
PMN Applies a point moment M in the specified load direction at the distance x1
measured long the member axis from the lower node number.
D1 PMN +000.000 0.000 (kN.m,m)
M (kN.m) x1(m)
EM1,2 Applies the moments M1 and M2 to the local major axis of the member at
end 1 and end 2 respectively. Note that no other load directions apply in the
load type.
D1 EM1 +000.000 EM2 +000.000 ( kN.m)
M1(kN.m) M2(kN.m)
EndM Applies moments Mz to the major axis and My to the minor axis at the
specified end n (1 or 2) of the member.
D1 EndM 1 +000.000 +000.000 (Mz, My)
n Mz(kN.m) My(kN.m)
Density Applies a local density to a member. This option should not to be used in
conjunction with the global density option found from the Cases menu,
which automatically applies a single density to all members in the structure.
D1 D 024.000 ( kN/m3) Important: The density load type
3 uses the Leader-Follower principle
D (kN/m )
(as used for section properties and
beta angles) whereby is a density
load is applies to, say, member 3 of
10, this density will also be applied
to members 4 to 10 since they are
followers of the member 3, the
leader. This chain can be broken by
applying a density of zero to
member number 4.
Co- Applies a Co-efficient of thermal expansion to the member. This is more of
a material property of the member rather than a load. Thermal loading is not
applied to the member until a temperature differential value is applied
through the Rise load type. See below. Like the density a global value of
thermal expansion co-efficient can be applied to all member from the Cases
menu, in which instance this local member definition should not be used.
The value of the co-efficient represents the amount of thermal strain that
produced through a 1 degree Celsius rise in temperature.
D1 Alpha 12.0E-6 (Thermal Expansion) Important: The thermal expansion
co-efficient operates on a leader-
follower principle as described
above for the density load type.
Rise Defines the temperature differential on a member for the application of
thermal loading. Note that it is essential that the member has a defined co-
efficient of thermal expansion either from the global definition in the Cases
menu
D1 DT +000.000 (Degree C) Important: The temperature
differential operates on a leader-
follower principle as described
above for the density load type.
Member Specifications
Other buttons in the member loading type area are not so much member loads as
member specifications or member load specification.
Frame The frame spacing has the effect of multiplying all loads that follow after it
Spacing in the list of loads by the specified factor. The frame spacing value is
entered in meter units. For example, when using a frame spacing along
with a UDL , the value entered for the UDL can be thought of as the area
(kN/m2) load since it will be multiplied by the spacing value.
UT Spacing 01.000 (Multiply Note: MasterFrame will move the
AllLoads) position of the Spacing definition to
the top of the list of loads during
analysis, therefore ensuring that the
multiplication factor is applied to all
loads on that member.
Torq ecc. The torq ecc. Has the effect of offsetting the member loads from the
shear centre of the member in both the members local major (ey) and
minor axis (ex), hence creating a torque load on the member. The torque
eccentricities specified apply to all member loads that follow after it in the
list of loads applied to that member. Hence the following example shows
how a UDL on a member is made eccentric by 50 mm from the minor axis
to create a torque force, while the point load remains applied relative to
the shear centre of the member.
D1 PY 050.000 01.550 ( kN, m)
UT Torq ex +0.050 ey +0.000 ( m, m )
D1 UDLY 015.000 ( kN/m )
De The Deactivate option has the effect of completely removing the effect of
Activate the member stiffness in the structural analysis. Any member loading
(ignore) applied to a deactivated member will be transferred back to the nodes as
equivalent point loads.
UT De-Activate (Ignore Member) Tip: By using a load group other
than UT, e.g. N1, it is possible to
have a member which is deactivated
in one loading case (by including the
N1 load group on the case
combination) but not in another.
Tension
Only 3.11.1 Tension and Compression only members
Member
Compress
Only
Member
Stiff Deck 3.11.2 Stiff Deck Option.
Part Fixity 3.11.2 Stiff Deck Option.
3.8.4 Nodal loads
It may be advantageous to firstly review the general nodal information area.

3.7 The Restraints Menu
Add new group

Delete group
Applied Loads for that group
Load Groups
Change Order of
Nodal Loading Briefs
Nodal Loads can be added to individual nodes or groups of nodes. It is sometimes

useful to change the view to make picking a group of nodes easier.
Each definition consists of:
1. A list of Nodes that the loads are being applied to. Click Apply to Nodes to place the
cursor in the nodes list text box. Nodes may be selected by cross windowing a group of
nodes, or individually clicking on nodes in the graphics area.
2. The load definitions in the six directions.
3. The load group (e.g. D1).
To apply another set of loads you must first select Add New, click Reset to clear the
current list of selected nodes if necessary. Then define the node list, the load values
and the load group.
You may alternate between the nodal loading briefs by either selecting them from the
drop down list or by using the adjacent (Next/Prev.) spin button. All the nodal loading
briefs may be graphically viewed simultaneously by clicking the Show All button.
3.8.5 Live Load Reduction in Multi-Storey Frames

The BS6399 loading code recognises that it in a multi-storey building, the imposed
(live) floor loading may not exist on all floors simultaneously. The code provides a
method to reduce the axial loading on columns with increasing number of floors. In
certain columns the axial force may be reduced by a percentage dependent on the
number of floors (with loads qualifying for reduction) carried by the column under
consideration.
MasterFrame enables the Engineer to very quickly specify the percentage reductions
using two approaches;
Method 1 Method 2
Apply percentage reductions to the total Apply the percentage reductions to
live load being applied to the column. individual live floor loads supported by
the column.
The reduced column axial force, and pad foundation loading is linked to MasterKey
Steel, Connections and Concrete design programs, together with a simple approach for
defining floor levels.
To apply live load reduction;

1. From the MasterFrame Edit menu select Loads > Special Loads > Live Load
Reduction.
2. Check the Apply Live Load Reduction
….. Option.
3. Check the Apply reduction to total
load…. Option to use method 1 as outlined
above, else use method 2.
4. Specify the percentage reductions per

floor/level, separating the values with semi-
colons.
5. Specify the Minimum Level Height.
MasterFrame uses this value to define the floor
levels. In the adjacent example a minimum level
height of 2.9 m prevents the staggered floor
levels from being interpreted as two separate
storeys. If the length of a column is less than
the minimum level height the percentage
reduction is not increased and the level number
is not incremented.
6. Analyse the frame. When live load reduction
is activated the analysis procedure conducts two
sets of analysis, i.e. both with and without live
load reduction. This enables the percentages
and minimum level height to be modified post
analysis, omitting the need to reanalyse.
3.14 Analysing the frame
To view the reduced axial loading;

1. From the Output menu select Bending, Shear and Deflection
2. Activate the Geometry/Axial viewing option.
3. Check the Values box to display the axial force value on the member in the frame
geometry area. The axial force in columns that are subject to live load reduction are
shown with the full axial force minus the reduction force i.e. 375 – 14.1 KN where 14.1
KN represents the reduction force.
3.15 Viewing and

Printing of Results
To modify the reduction parameters post analysis;
1. Select the Frame Load Diagram button from the top tool bar.
2. In the Load Reduction tab you can alter the reduction parameters.
3. The reduction method can also be changed using the Base reduction on total load
check box (checked for method 1).
4. Click Apply changes to activate the new parameters.
5. While viewing the axial force as described above the Show Without control can be
used to hide the force reduction values, and can be redisplayed using the Restore
button.
3.9 Nodal Support and Member End Conditions
3.9.1 Member Releases

The member end release menu allows you to
release the member in Major and minor axis
bending and torsion. There is also the facility
to remove all member releases. Note all
member releases are automatically displayed
when the menu is entered. The system used
to represent the releases at the end of the
member is as follows:
White indicates this degree of freedom has

been released while red means it is
unreleased.
3 MasterFrame 3- 122
Copy Member End Releases
This function allows the user to copy
releases specified for a master member
to other members, which may or may not
have releases already specified.
Note: This menu can be accessed from

the member end releases menu by
clicking on Copy Members.
Change All Member Releases

This function allows the user to specify the
existing release system and the required
release system. Click proceed and the
programme will find all cases of the
existing release system and replace them
with the new system.
Remove All Releases

Click Proceed on this sub-menu and all
existing releases will be deleted.
3.9.2 Nodal Restraints
It may be advantageous to firstly review the general nodal information area part of this
manual.
3.7 The Nodal Information Area
Nodal Supports conditions can be added to individual nodes or groups of nodes. It is

sometimes useful to change the view to make picking a group of nodes easier.
Each definition consists of;
1. A list of Nodes
2. The support definitions and
3. The load group (e.g. UT, N1-N9).
To define another set of supports you must first select Add New and then define the
node list, the new support type and its load group.
Support conditions that apply to all loading cases should be assigned load group UT
(Unity Load Factor). If any other load group is used (such as N1, N2 etc.) then the
condition will only apply to the loading cases in which the corresponding load factor is
set to a value other than zero.
3.9.1.1 Static Nodal Supports
Add New Brief

Delete Brief
Static Support Briefs
Show all Briefs Conditions Apply to all
Loading Cases
Conditions Apply to L1
Loading case
Load Sub-Groups
Load Groups
This type of support condition ensures zero nodal displacements in the specified
directions. Convenient predefined static support conditions of Pinned, Fixed and Roller
are also available. In the static support brief fixity and non-fixity of the six degrees of
freedom are represented by 1 and 0 values respectively.
3.9.1.2 Spring Supports
Add New Brief
Delete Brief
Show all Briefs
Conditions Apply to L1
Loads
Conditions Apply to D1
Loads
Load Sub-Groups
Load Groups
Provides elastic support conditions in the directions of the specified non-zero stiffness.
3.9.1.3 Support Settlements
Add New Brief

Conditions Apply to UT
Delete Brief Loads
Show all Briefs Conditions Apply
to L1 Loads
Load Groups Load Sub-Groups
Provides a prescribed nodal displacement in the chosen direction to the selected

nodes.
3.9.3 Partial Rotational Fixity
Partial fixity applies a percentage of full fixity to the rotational degrees of freedom at
either end of a member. Partial Fixity is a load like any other load, and is applied to a
member and NOT a node. Like any load it can be assigned to a Load Group, which
can then be activated in particular loading cases. Partial fixity may be assigned either
of two ways;
At the Frame Generation Stage

In the Sub-Frame, Multi-Storey, and Portal frame generation templates, a global
percentage of partial fixity may be applied in all three rotational directions to all fixed
supports.
Individually to each member end

1. From the Loads Menu select Member Loading and then Member Loading –
Member, Global and Copy to
2. Click the Loads Editor button to move the loads editor.

3. Define the load group.
4. Select the member you wish to apply partial fixity to and click the PartFixity
button.
5. In the Current Load Editor text box;

UT = Load group
10.00 = 10% fixity. 100.00% = fully fixed. 0.0% = fully pinned.
+++ = Apply Partial fixity to all rotational directions of End 1 of
member.
--- = Don't apply Partial fixity to End 2 of member.
6. To activate the partial fixity change the – symbol to +.
! Important Note: For partial fixity to exist the static support condition of the
corresponding node must be rotationally fixed in the associated direction.
Sample files, which demonstrate the definition and implementation of partial fixity, are
stored in the ‘Msprogwd/Samples’ directory
3.9.4 Plastic Hinges
From the Members menu select Plastic Hinges. The plastic

hinge must be assigned to a particular loading cases and a
member end. The Plastic moment capacity is defined in kNmm.
Once all fields have been completed click the Add button. The
Update button is used only for recording changes to magnitude of
the plastic moment capacity. The location of the plastic hinge is
highlighted in the frame graphics area.
3.10 The Options Menu
The Options menu provides facilities to globally alter
member and nodal numbering and create the
basement level as well as set general analysis options.
Note:
• The 3D model manager options are only

available if this module has been purchased.
• The basement height setting is only used to
calculate the area exposed to wind so is only relevant if
MasterKey Wind Analysis is installed
Geometry Options
3.3.3.12 Options
3D Model Manager Options
See section 14.3 Area Loading Defaults

(3D Model Manger section)
Analysis Options
This sub menu allows the user to

toggle a variety of analysis options
such as inclusion of shear
deflection (important for short
beams) and ignore torsional
stiffness.
P-Delta Analysis
Selecting this option automatically opens

the Analysis options sub-menu under the
Load Titles menu. This option allows the
user to specify a variety of different methods
to take into account 2nd order effects.
3.14 Analysing the frame
Timber Duration
Use this to set the duration of loading

for timber sections.
Fast Analysis
Creates the option of a fast analysis in the

Analysis menu. A fast analysis avoids
repetition recalculation of the stiffness
matrix but at the expense of memory. For
large frames with large numbers of loading
cases it could increase the analysis speed
five fold. It is activated when the

button is highlighted in the analysis menu.
3.11 Advanced Features of MasterFrame
3.11.1 Tension or Compression Only Members
Tension or Compression only members are defined as a member load, and therefore
may be assigned to a particular load group. The tension or compression only criteria
may only be active in certain load cases that contain the associated load group with a
load factor other than zero. The Notional load group (N1 to N9) is generally used for
this purpose. The Unity load group applies to all loading cases.
The tension or compression only introduces a non-linear aspect to the frame analysis,
requiring a number of iterations until convergence is reached.
Tension Only and Compression Only should not be applied to the same member.
To apply Tension or Compression only to a member,
1. Select Loads Menu > Member Loading > Member Loading – Member, Global
and Copy to.
2. Ensure that you are in Member mode
3. Select the member you want to apply the Tension or Compression only to by
clicking on it
4. Click on either the or button to apply the specification to the

member
5. Set the load group of the specification. Set to UT for the applied specification to
be effective in all loading cases.
3.4 Member Information Area

3.8.3 Member Loads
3.11.2 The Stiff Deck Option

The stiff deck option enables you to a make member flexibly rigid by grossly magnifying
their inertia in a particular direction. Using this approach it is possible to model the
diaphragm action of floor slabs. This is done by applying the stiff deck criteria to the
appropriate axis of a group of members that enclose a solid continuum. The increased
flexural stiffness of the members do not attract additional forces since the original
unaltered stiffness components are using when calculating member forces.
The stiff deck criterion is applied as a member load and may be assigned to a
particular load group. By associating the stiff deck with a load group other than UT, it
may be present only in load cases that contain the load group with a load factor other
than zero. However it is most commonly associated with the UT load group, therefore
becoming effective in all loading cases.
The stiff deck criterion is controlled by the three symbols after “Stiff-Deck”. The + and
– symbols are used to active and deactivate the stiff deck. The three directions are
torsion, minor axis, and major axis bending local to the member. To use the stiff deck
option to model the diaphragm action of a floor slab ‘Stiff-Deck -+-‘ condition must be
applied to the enclosing beams (provided the beams are bending in their major axis).
To apply stiff-deck only to a group of members,
1. Select Member> Member Loading
2. Move to Copy To mode and select the Add/Delete option
3. Select the No Loads… Template 000 option from the drop list beneath the Copy
To button. This is to re-set the template such that you only copy the stiff-deck to the
group of members.
4. Click the on button to add ‘UT Stiff-Deck -+- (Mt My Mz)’ to the loads
template.
5. Window the group of members you wish to copy the Stiff-Deck to, e.g. the entire
floor beams.
The stiff deck criteria is controlled by the three symbols after “Stiff-Deck”. The + and –
symbols are used to active and deactivate the stiff deck. The three directions are
torsion, minor axis, and major axis bending local to the member. To use the stiff deck
option to model the diaphragm action of a floor slab ‘Stiff-Deck -+-‘ condition must be
applied to the enclosing beams i.e. minor axis stiff.
Notes
1. The beam Ends should be fixed in the axis that has the Stiff-Deck active.
2. Pinned members should be fixed in the Stiff-Deck axis. E.g. major axis pin only.
3. Stiff-Deck is not designed for shear walls
3.4 Member Information Area
3.8.3 Member Loads
3.12 Analysing the Frame
There are 5 possible types of analysis. Any analysis types that are not applicable to
your frame will be deactivated and displayed in white. Any analysis types that do not
match your license will also be deactivated. Below each button is your license limit for
each analysis type.
In Truss Analysis all loads on members are converted to Nodal Loads and there is no
bending of the members.
Type Geometry Load Directions Joint Types

Dimensions
Space Frame X, Y and Z X, Y and Z Rigid/Pinned
Space Truss X, Y and Z X, Y and Z Pinned Only
Plane Frame X and Y X and Y Rigid/Pinned
Plane Truss X and Y X and Y Pinned Only

Rigid/Pinned
Grillage X and Z Y only
Note: In Rigid Frame Analysis the user can pin specific members by using the Member
Release function in the editor.
The Show Graphical Progress button allows the user to view the analysis progress
graphically, whereby the frame is dismantled and rebuilt as the analysis progresses.
This however, is at the cost of increased computational time.
3.12.1 Analysis Method
The MasterFrame analysis procedure employs the stiffness matrix method. The basic
linear solution procedure being;
1. Calculate the individual element stiffness matrices using member geometry,
cross sectional area, inertia, and modulus of elasticity.
2. Calculate the fixed end forces due to in member loading.
3. Assemble the global loading vector, and global stiffness matrix.
4. Using an advanced and efficient solver, the equilibrium equations are solved
for nodal displacements.
5. The nodal displacements are then back substituted in to the individual
element stiffness matrices to obtain member forces at the noded.
6. The member forces are equilibrated at the nodes, and where any out of
balance forces exist, a reaction is assumed to be present.
7. The intermediate member forces are calculated based on the member end
forces and the in member loading.
These equations have been expressed in general matrix form, which is best suited for
computer analysis. This, however, has required the definition of a precise method of
notation. At this stage it may be beneficial to review the definition of sign conventions,
special terminology, and units.
3.1.5 Co-ordinate System, Sign Convention and Units
3.12.2 Required Nodal Topology

A diagram of a framed structure consists essentially of a series of lines (representing
the members) which connect points (representing the nodes). When considering a
general structure, the nodes are denoted by numbers 1, 2, ........ n, the actual
assignment of numbers to specific nodes being done in an arbitrary manner. In the
same way, the members are identified by the two node numbers, n1 and n2, which
they connect. It would be possible to assign these suffixes arbitrarily, but it is more
convenient to adopt the convention that n1 refers to the smaller node number, and n2
to the larger node number.
The use of the Shear Force and Bending Moment conventions necessitates the
introduction of a local system of Coordinates for each member. This is also necessary
if loads acting normal to the member are to be defined precisely. It is convenient for
this purpose to define the local x-axis as the vector running from node n1 to node n2,
with the local y-axis as the vector obtained by an anti-clockwise rotation of 90 degrees
of the latter.
This systematic method of labelling the nodes and members of a structure makes it
easy to specify any structure, however complex, as a list of node connections. This
form of specification is necessary if the structure is to be analysed by a general
computer program.
3.12.3 Pin-Jointed Frame (Truss) Analysis Considerations
The MasterFrame program can handle Pin-Jointed Frames as well as Rigidly-Jointed
Frames.
The structure and the composition of the data file required for the analysis of a Pin-
Jointed frame, is the same as those required for a Rigid-Jointed frame, except that
Nodal Moments and Rotational restraints are not permitted.
One of the most powerful features of the Pin-Jointed frame analysis, is the in-built
facility for transferring member loads to nodal loads, eliminating the need to manually
perform this somewhat laborious task. However, it should be emphasised that all local
stresses are ignored in the final analysis and the results obtained are exactly the same
as if the loads were applied at the nodes in the first instance.
If the local stresses are considered to be of such a magnitude that their effect would
have to be taken into account in the design process, then the more sophisticated Rigid
frame analysis, with appropriate member releases could be used.
Another important feature of the Pin-Jointed Frame Program is its compact output, with
the values of the axial force, the axial stress, the length and the member type for two
members being printed on a single line.
The latter feature is very useful when dealing with symmetrical trusses in which all
symmetrical members are defined in sets of two. This is done automatically when a
Fink truss or a lattice girder of the N or V type is generated by the MasterFrame Editor.
! Note: For pin-jointed frames and trusses, there is no need to use member end
releases since all members are automatically released when "Pin-Jointed" frame
analysis is selected from the MasterFrame Menu.
3.13 Viewing and Printing Results
One you have generated the frame, you can:
1. View and print the data;
2. Print the frame geometry;
3. Analyse the frame;
4. View and print analysis output;
5. View and print shear, bending and deflected shapes diagrams and envelops for the whole
frames, part of the frame or individual members; and
6. Move to MasterKey to design, check and re-size the sections.
3.13.1 The Data Menu
The Data Menu allows you to view/print frame data and

frame geometry.
View/Print Data
The frame data consists of pre-
analysis in formation.
The viewing or printing of this
information may be filtered
according to the categories
provided.
Print Frame Graphics
Prints the current view of the
frame graphics.
Additional control is given in
the printing set up, which
enables you to print to scale.
The scale may be altered
using the adjacent spin
button.
Export Frame Graphics to

Word
Exports the current frame
view to the cursor position in
the open power pad
document. If no PowerPad
document is detected one is
automatically opened.
Multi Views
Displays a tiled view of the four main frame elevations
3.13.2 The Output Menu
View Output
View nodal displacements, member end forces, and support reactions in tabular form.
Results viewed may be filter according to load cases, member orientation, section sizes,
as well as user defined member groups and node groups. The main menu bar also
changes to provide access to the other functions in the output menu.
PrintTabularOutput (The Print Manager)

• The Print Manager allows the user to customise the output including the
production of envelopes for all forces and reactions.
• The Preview / Print / Close tab enables you to specify which loading cases to
generate printed output from. Print preview facilities are also available.
• The Select Nodes and Members tab provides the facility to limit printed output to
the listed nodes, members and supports.
• The Print Options tab allows us to organise how the format of the printed output.
It also provides controls over which components (displacements/forces/reactions) of
each loading case to out put.
View / Print Member Stresses (MemberStresses)

Presents Section properties, maximum member forces, and the location of the
maximum bending moment in the member measured from the lower node number. All
forces are taken form their local member axis. The format of results can be customised
using the various filtering options provided.
Internal Member Forces (InternalForces)
This option lists the internal member forces for individual members at a number of
specified intervals. All forces are taken form their local member axis. The current
member may be selected from the list provided, or by clicking on the member in the
adjacent frame graphics area. Similar member filtering facilities are available as in
other View/Print options.
Bending Shear and Deflection (Graphical Output)

The graphical output obtained from the MasterFrame Graphics program comprises a
large selection of diagrams drawn accurately to scale, and printed as individual sheets
(prints).
The program options include the following:
• Frame Geometry (whole frame or zoom area);
• Deflected Shapes (whole frame or zoom area);
• Deflected Shapes superimposed on the frame geometry (whole frame or zoom area);
• Shear Force and Bending Moment (whole frame or zoom area);
• Shear Force, Bending Moment and deflected shapes for individual members;
• Shear Force and Bending Moment Envelopes and deflected shapes (whole frame or
zoom area); and
• Shear Force, Envelopes, Bending Moment Envelopes and deflected shapes for
individual members.
This area allows you to
view and print frame
geometry, axial force,
shear force, bending
moment, deflection
diagrams and envelopes.
The scale of the
diagrams may the
adjusted. You can select
major and/or minor axis,
change the number of
intervals and shading.
You can display axial
force, shear, bending and
deflection values by
checking the Values box.
You can also view the
above diagrams for
member by member
basis by checking the
Member Diagrams box.
3.13.3 The Print Set Up

The Job Reference form appears every time you wish to print an item from the
MasterSeries.
The Print tab allows you to:
• Modify the job references and the start page
number
• Select the scale for printing graphics
• Print your company logo on each page of output
• Cancel or proceed to print;
• Select the printer
• Select page orientation
The Setting tab provides controls for:
• Margin dimensions and print area

• Select Text, Graphics or No border
• Draft for print with no borders and bold face
• ReSet to restore MasterFrame default values.
The Adjustment tab provides tools for the minor adjustment of borders and tables. The
Scales tab defines global horizontal and vertical scales. These functions are rarely
necessary, and should only be used in circumstances where normal print settings yield
undesirable results.
Please note that if the print area is set too large then the printer will attempt to spread
the printing over a number of pages, resulting in a large number of pages being fed
through with scattered lines here and there. If this happens then you should reduce the
size of the print area.
The default values (ReSet) should work with most printers.
If your printer does not seem to produce acceptable borders then select the graphics
border.

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3 MasterFrame: Plane, Grillage and Space Frame Analysis

3.1 Getting Started with MasterFrame

MasterFrame is a program for the generation and

 Generate the frame geometry

3.1.2 The MasterFrame Main Menu

3.15.1 The Data Menu

Analyse Analyse the frame

3.14 Analysing the Frame

3.15.2 The Output Menu

Design Move to MasterSeries integrated steel, concrete, connections, composite

10 MasterCAD for General Frames

9 MasterFrame Dynamic Analysis

2.3 The MasterSeries Help System

3.1.3 The MasterFrame Edit Menu

3.8.2 The Cases Menu

3.3.3 The Nodes Menu

Viewing Create and edit frame views and member groups

3.3.4 The Members Menu

3.10 The Duplicate Menu

3.11 The Add Frame Menu

Options General geometry, 3D model and analysis options

2.3 The MasterSeries Help System

3.1.4 Co-ordinate System, Sign Convention, Units and Terms

Plane Frame Grillage

Distance along Members

Plane Frame Grillage

The Maximum Member Deflection The Sign Convention (Plane Frames)

3.2 MasterFrame Tool Bar

Changing the Frame View Orientation

Display the frame in front (XY plane) view

Display the frame in side (YZ plane) view

Display the frame in plan (XZ plane) view

Zooming, Panning and View Filtering

Show the last Zoom

Show the last full frame view

Show the remained of the structure outside the current zoom

Select a user defined frame view from this drop list

Display Horizontal members only

Display Vertical members only

Display Inclined members only

Display East/West members only

Display North/South members only

Displaying Frame Information

Display X, Y and Z global nodal co-ordinates beside each node point

Display the Node number beside each node point

Display the Member number on each member

Display the member length on each member

Display a section size label on each member

Draw all Nodal Loading

Display the Static Supports symbol, indicating restrained nodes and

Display all user specified settlements

Displays the Mesh of any Finite Element model

Show beam runs and pattern loading in flat slab construction

Set global colour defaults (drop down menu)

Turn on DirectX to improve the graphics display

3D member profile with light background. Can be used to rapidly

Label columns East/West or North/South

3D Member Profile with Hidden Line Removal

Multi-colour shading for 3D member profile. Provides shading for the

Turn on legend for section sizing

Use MasterCad to draw the end plates at the member joints

Turn on grid lines

Turn on grid line references

Generate the frame geometry