The University of Tokyo has announced a major breakthrough in robotics with the creation of a robotic face covered in lab-grown human skin. Glurps. The technology could have significant applications in the cosmetics industry and plastic surgeon training, the researchers say. Robotic mobility platforms that are working on self-healing capabilities would also benefit; the synthetic skin also enhances the robots’ realism, according to the university’s press release (and visuals).
A robotic face more realistic than ever
The scientists, who published their results in the journal Cell Reports Physical Scienceused living cells to create this artificial skin, which was applied to a 3D facial mold and a 2D skin robot. To mimic the ligaments of human skin, mainly composed of collagen and elastin, they used miniature connective tissues that anchor the skin to the underlying tissues. This method allows for strong and flexible adhesion, and therefore more “human” facial expressions.
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Researchers have found a way to bind engineered skin tissue to the complex forms of humanoid robots. #UTokyoResearch #robotics #bioengineering https://t.co/sRfebItIml pic.twitter.com/iM2WSqjM5H
— UTokyo | University of Tokyo (@UTokyo_News_en) June 25, 2024
Shoji Takeuchi, lead author of the study, emphasizes: ” By mimicking the ligament structures of human skin and using V-shaped perforations in solid materials, we have found a way to attach skin to complex structures. »This technique ensures that the skin can move with the robot’s mechanical components without tearing or detaching.
Takeuchi and his team have other challenges to overcome in making the skin even more realistic, such as integrating sweat glands, oil glands, pores, blood vessels, fat and nerves. Movement is also a crucial factor, not just the material, so another big challenge is to create human expressions by integrating sophisticated actuators, or muscles, inside the robot “, the researcher explains.
Robots with human skin could have a variety of applications, from assisting stroke patients, burn victims and paralyzed people to being used in animated films and animatronics to achieve realistic movements. This innovation would allow robots to not only look more like humans, but also have better mobility and self-healing capabilities.
Shoji Takeuchi concludes: “ Creating robots that can heal themselves, perceive their environment more accurately, and perform tasks with human-like dexterity is incredibly motivating. »The researchers hope the technology can be used to create facial simulation devices for research into skin aging, cosmetics and surgical procedures.
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