Define coping beam in structures?

Question

Define coping beam in structures?

Answer 1

All references on a Google search matched my expectation that it is not a kind of beam but a way of cutting a beam.  The term coping is taking from wood working and house hold finish carpentry.  When two shaped pieces (moldings in wood) are brought together at an angle, an elaborate curved line must be cut to match the two.  If the angle is at ends, a miter cut that divides the difference at an angle can be used.  But if one beam is coming into the side of the other it may be required and even in a corner it may be easier (especially in wood) to cope the cut.  Basically, a coping cut ignores one of the pieces as far as cutting is concerned and does all the cutting on the other piece to match profiles.  With steel beams it requires a computer controlled torch or jet cutter.  

Coping

http://www.kelleher.com/documents/Coping...