Beta Angle

Since the input for member loads can be provided in the local and global coordinate system and
the output for member-end-forces is printed in the local coordinate system, it is important to
know the relationship between the local and global coordinate systems. This relationship is
defined by an angle measured in the following specified way. This angle will be defined as the
beta () angle.

When the local x-axis is parallel to the global Vertical axis, as in the case of a column in a
structure, the beta angle is the angle through which the local z-axis (or local y when Z axis is
vertical) has been rotated about the local x-axis from a position of being parallel and in the same
positive direction of the global Z-axis (global Y axis when Z axis is vertical).

When the local x-axis is not parallel to the global Vertical axis, the beta angle is the angle
through which the local coordinate system has been rotated about the local x-axis from a position
of having the local z-axis (or local y when Z axis is vertical) parallel to the global X-Z plane (or
global X-Y plane when Z axis is vertical)and the local y-axis (or local z when Z axis is vertical)
in the same positive direction as the global vertical axis. Figure below details the positions for
beta equals 0 degrees or 90 degrees. When providing member loads in the local member axis, it
is helpful to refer to this figure for a quick determination of the local axis system.