> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.enercalc.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.enercalc.com/e3d-user-manual/model-entities/toc161394027.md). # Members Understanding members, the two-node frame elements used for beams, frames, and trusses in ENERCALC 3D. A member is a two-node straight frame element with a constant cross section. The term “frame element”, “beam element”, and “member” are used interchangeably in this program. The truss element is a special frame element with moments fully released at both ends. The frame element formulation accounts for axial, torsional, and bending about strong and weak axes, with options to include shear deformations and axial stress stiffening (P-Delta) effects. Moment releases may be applied to either or both ends of the element. The frame element may be used to model continuous beams, 2D or 3D frames, 2D or 3D trusses or a mixture of two. The program provides powerful commands to generate commonly used framed structures such as continuous beams, 2D or 3D frames, arc beams, and non-prismatic beams. A non-prismatic member is approximated by subdividing the original member into several prismatic members. You may access these commands from the Create ribbon. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.enercalc.com/e3d-user-manual/model-entities/toc161394027.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.