Fig. 5. Finite element models (FEMs) illustrating strain distribution within the defect for shear (A,B) and bending (C,D). The three-dimensional models are to the left (A,C), while their respective cross-section representations are to the right (B,D). The models presented are from an intermediate stage of loading to illustrate the strain progression. The distribution of strain is illustrated using the quantitative color bars to the right of each active model. Altering the mechanical properties of the defect tissues alters the results of the models. The number of brick elements and the composition of the structure also play a role in determining the model's effectiveness in estimating local mechanical loads.

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