A-frame

A sawhorse, which is an A-frame structure.

For the equipment used in dog competitions, see dog agility.

For the equipment used in BDSM, see A-Frame (BDSM).

For the house style, see A-Frame house.

An A-frame is a basic structure designed to bear a load in a lightweight economical manner. The simplest form of an A-frame is two similarly sized beams, arranged in a 45-degree or greater angle, attached at the top. These materials are often wooden or steel beams attached at the top by rope, welding, gluing, or riveting.

Because they have only two "legs", A-frames are usually set up in rows so that they can have good stability. A saw horse is a good example of this structure. More complex structures will have a crossmember connecting the two materials in the middle to prevent the legs from bowing outwards under load, giving the structure the appearance of the capital letter A.

The A-Frame as part of Graham's Adventure Question Game

"Right, where's he put 'em?"

"It's not 'where's he put 'em', but why's he put 'em there?"

"Right, why's he put 'em there?"

"And is it wise that he put 'em there?"

"Are there any wires in the area, like a TV wire?"

"Uh, there's an A-frame which is made out of some sort of plywood. But, that's all I can give you."

Other structures that use A-frames

• A frame camping tent
• Folding ladder
• Double wishbone suspension (cars)
• Some suspension bridges
• A-frame for hang gliders, trikes, and ultralights
• at the stern of ships for fishing or research