Figure 3.
Von Mises comparative stresses shows a situation where all stress acting on the object in all three dimensions (=multiaxial) is combined and simplified in an uniaxial stress situation displayed in N mm−2. Diplodocus cervical vertebra during extension: (a) high comparative stress occurs around the parapophysis, fused costal capitulum, and cervical rib (arrow marks well-rounded transitional area described in the text), (b) cross section reveals nearly unloaded interior of the vertebra. Brachiosaurus cervical vertebra, (c) extended side during lateral flexion: comparative stress concentration is visible in green and yellow colours on vertebral laminae, (d) cross section during lateral flexion reveals nearly stress-free interior of the vertebra.