The Von Mises Criterion is a method used in engineering and materials science to predict the yielding of ductile materials under complex loading conditions. It states that yielding occurs when the distortion energy in a material reaches a critical value, which is related to the material's yield strength. This criterion helps engineers design structures that can withstand various forces without failing. In practical terms, the Von Mises Criterion allows for the analysis of stress states in materials by comparing the equivalent stress to the yield strength. It is particularly useful in applications involving tension, compression, and shear forces, ensuring safety and reliability in structural designs.