Objective To analyze the load-bearing mechanism and stress relaxation properties of the articular cartilage (AC) through finite element simulation and experimental validation. Methods By comprehensively considering the solid phase of the matrix, the liquid phase of the pore and the reinforced phase of the collagen fibrils in AC, as well as the dilatation dependent permeability of AC, a fibril reinforced poroelastic (FRPE) model was built including changes of void ratio with subsurface depth of the AC. Based on the proposed model, and by utilizing ABAQUS software and FORTRAN language, the finite element analysis (FEA) on unconfined ramp compression of AC was conducted. The equilibrium modulus of porcine cartilage tissues under unconfined compression was measured by a self-designed biomechanical property measuring system, and the results between the FEA and the unconfined ramp compression test of the AC were compared. Results The liquid pore pressurization could last about 80 seconds and contributed up to 90 % of the total stress at the middle point of the test specimen when it was compressed at a strain rate of 0.45%/s. Conclusions The FEA on the unconfined ramp compression of AC based on the FRPE model can quantitatively evaluate the load bearing capacity of the solid and liquid phase, respectively, changed with different strain and loading time. Simulation analysis combined with the unconfined ramp compression test results facilitates the evaluation on mechanics properties of the cartilage with more accuracy.