A general solution of the axisymmetric contact problem for biphasic cartilage layers

A unilateral axisymmetric contact problem for articular cartilage layers is considered. The articular cartilages bonded to subchondral bones are modeled as biphasic materials consisting of a solid phase and a fluid phase. It is assumed that the subchondral bones are rigid and shaped like bodies of revolution with arbitrary convex profiles. The obtained closed-form analytical solution is valid over time periods compared with the typical diffusion time and can be used for increasing loading.