Development of a Python-Based Tool for Automated Shear Force and Bending Moment Diagram Generation in Structural Analysis

This research paper presents a Python-based tool developed to assist civil engineering students in analyzing and visualizing the structural behavior of supported beams. The primary focus is automating the generation of shear force and bending moment diagrams under various point loads. The tool calculates reactions at the support points and computes the shear force and bending moment at different positions along the beam. By inputting parameters such as the beam’s length, the number of loads, and their locations, students can quickly calculate and visualize the results. The tool automatically generates a comprehensive report in PDF format, which includes detailed calculations, reaction forces, and graphical representations of the shear force and bending moment diagrams. This tool leverages essential algorithms, including the Static Equilibrium Algorithm for calculating support reactions and the Segment-by-Segment Analysis Algorithm for determining shear forces and bending moments. Numerical techniques handle distributed loads, while Matplotlib provides clear visualizations of Shear Force and Bending Moment Diagrams. The tool demonstrated exceptional accuracy with maximum deviations of ±0.15% from theoretical calculations for simple beams and ±0.3% for complex loading scenarios. Student assessment data showed a 35% reduction in problem-solving time and a notable improvement in conceptual understanding, evidenced by a 28% increase in course performance metrics. This research contributes to engineering education by providing a robust platform that enhances student engagement with structural analysis concepts. The tool’s ability to generate detailed visual representations alongside comprehensive calculation reports offers a valuable resource for both classroom instruction and independent learning.