'Extremely creepy': Scientists create robot face with lab-grown living skin—see pictures

The future is here, where the boundary between human and machine blurs before your eyes. At the University of Tokyo, a team of scientists has unveiled a remarkable creation: a robot face adorned with a delicate layer of living skin. Their goal? To pioneer the development of cyborgs that closely mimic human appearance and function.

Also read: ‘Extremely creepy’: Scientists create robot face with lab-grown living skin—see pictures

In a groundbreaking development, a team of scientists has introduced a robot face adorned with a sophisticated layer of living skin that possesses the remarkable ability to heal itself and even crinkle into a smile.?

Cell Reports Physical Science

The skin, meticulously crafted from a mixture of human skin cells grown on a collagen scaffold, is delicately placed atop a 3D-printed resin base, as reported by New Scientist.

Professor Shoji Takeuchi, a key figure in the project, highlighted that this lab-grown skin behaves akin to human skin in its healing process, regenerating when damaged, much like our own natural dermal layers.?

This capability not only enhances the durability of robotic components but also sets the stage for integrating sensory functions like touch and temperature detection directly into the living tissue.

Also read:?Watch: Stray Dog's Playful Encounter With Robotic Dog In IIT Kanpur Goes Viral

The research, detailed in Cell Reports Physical Science, underscores the potential of this living skin to revolutionise the field of robotics, particularly in applications where robots interact closely with humans.?

Cell Reports Physical Science

Takeuchi emphasised its relevance for healthcare, service, companion, and humanoid robots, where lifelike qualities are crucial for effective human-machine interactions.

However, the robot skin does not perfectly resemble human skin as yet - but, the project has identified critical avenues for improvement. Takeuchi noted the need for achieving more natural surface wrinkles and a thicker epidermis to further enhance the robot's human-like appearance and functionality.

On social media, reactions were mixed, with some expressing strong aversion. "Thanks, I hate it," commented one user on X, while another bluntly stated, "Nope. Don’t do it." Yet another added, "Well, there goes my ability to sleep comfortably."

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