Japanese scientists have found a way to attach living skin to robot faces, for realistic smiles and facial expressions. The discovery came from replicating the tissue structure in humans, according to the University of Tokyo team.
The original may look more like jelly beans or a crush dummy. But researchers say it paves the way for making convincingly realistic, animated humanoids with self-healing skin that won’t puncture or tear easily.
Just like in science fiction movies
Artificial skin is made in the lab, using living cells. Not only is it soft, like real skin, but it can repair itself if cut, scientists say. However, previous attempts to attach it proved difficult. The team tried using mini hooks as anchors – but these damaged the skin as the robot moved.
In humans, skin is connected to underlying structures by ligaments, tiny fibers of flexible collagen and elastin. To replicate this property, the researchers drilled several small holes in the robot and applied a gel containing collagen and then the layer of artificial skin on top. The gel plugs the holes and bonds the skin to the robot.
Applications in skin aging, cosmetics and plastic surgery
By mimicking human skin and ligament structures and using specially made V-shaped holes in solid materials, a way was found to connect skin to complex structures.
The skin’s natural flexibility and strong adhesion method mean the skin can move with the robot’s mechanical components without tearing or peeling. The latest results are published in the journal Cell Reports Physical Science (“Perforation-type anchors inspired by skin ligament for robotic face covered with living skin“). It will take many more years of testing to make the technology a daily reality, the researchers say.
Another major challenge is creating human-like expressions by incorporating sophisticated actuators or muscles inside the robot. But the work may also be useful in research into skin aging, cosmetics and surgical procedures, including plastic surgery.
