How Do We Classify Frames?

Basic Unit

These two frames are the most basic type of frames out there. From here, one can build all sorts of variations of rigid frames:

• We can create multi-span frames by placing these frames side-by-side.
• We can create multi-leveled frames by stacking portal frames on each other.
• We can create a multi-span AND multi-leveled at the same time to create a building frame.
• We can modify the arrangement of portal and gable frames by placing intermediate members between them.

Summary

We can arrange the members of the frame in any way possible. Two typical configurations are (1) portal and (2) gable.

A portal frame is a structure in which a minimum of two columns support a beam, and the connection between each is rigid.

A gable frame is a structure in which a minimum of two columns support an inclined beam, and the connection between each is rigid.

Both frames are fundamental units in which we can build more complex rigid structures.