Shear Moment Helper

Summary

This tool computes the shear force (V) and bending moment (M) at any cross-section of a simply supported beam. Add any combination of point loads and uniformly distributed loads (UDL), specify the query position, and get exact values along with a visual shear and moment diagram. All calculations are performed client-side using standard beam theory — no server needed.

How it works

1. Enter the total beam span length in meters.
2. Add point loads: specify position along the beam and magnitude (positive = downward).
3. Add distributed loads (UDL): specify start position, end position, and intensity (kN/m).
4. Enter the query position (x) where you want V and M computed.
5. Click "Compute" to see shear force, bending moment, and the full diagram.
6. Hover over the diagram to read values at any point along the beam.

Use cases

• Structural engineering homework and coursework verification.
• Quick sanity check during preliminary beam design.
• Teaching beam theory — visualize how loads shift the shear and moment diagrams.
• Check reaction forces at supports before sizing foundations.
• Validate hand-calculated shear and moment values.
• Design simple floor beams, lintels, or bridge decks at concept stage.
• Compare effect of point load vs distributed load on max moment.

Frequently Asked Questions