Japanese scientists have developed a skin-like material from human cells that can be affixed to robots, enabling them to exhibit realistic smiles. This week, in a published Cell Reports Physical Science study, University of Tokyo researchers showcased their creation, which features a pink, stretchable material formed into a grin.
The material, termed “skin-forming cell-laden gel,” allows for covering a robot with living skin. This advancement may lead to androids that closely mimic human appearance and functions.
The team, led by Professor Shoji Takeuchi, anticipates that this technology will enhance understanding facial expressions and wrinkle formation. It could also contribute to developments in transplant materials and cosmetics.
This innovation marks a shift from traditional humanoid robots, which typically use silicone rubber skin that lacks biological functions like sweating or self-healing.
While the ultimate goal is to imbue robots with self-healing skin capabilities, achieving this remains a work in progress. Earlier experiments involved grafting collagen on lab-grown skin to repair a robotic finger.
The researchers described creating a “natural smile” on the robot by gelatinizing the tissue and embedding it within its structure, mimicking how human skin ligaments function. Future tests will focus on repairing this robotic skin.
