A computer model highlights weak points on Michelangeloâ??s David. The modelâ??s stress distributionâ??with red indicating the highest stress and purple the lowestâ??was calculated according to the statueâ??s shape and the properties of its stone. It suggests that the four centuries David spent leaning forward in an earlier mounting contributed to the cracks evident in both legs. University of Wisconsin computational engineer Vadim Shapiro says the technology used to analyze David could help in the design of human joint replacements that distribute stress to bones in a natural way.
Office of Strategic Communication