The model frame is produced by mixmeta when fitting the meta-analytical model, and stored in the mixmeta object if argument model=TRUE. Alternatively, the model frame is directly returned from a call to mixmeta with argument method="model.frame". The method function model.frame simply extracts the saved model frame if available, or otherwise evaluates a call to mixmeta when method="model.frame".
The method function model.matrix extracts the design matrix for the fixed-effects part of a fitted meta-analytical model. It first extract the model frame by calling model.frame, and then passes the call to the default method.
Note that the model frame of mixmeta models consist of terms for both the fixed and random-effects parts, the latter including also the grouping factors. This information can be used to reconstruct the proper model frame or matrix for each part.
These methods functions are similar to those provided for regression objects lm and lm.