Robots get a meaty face (and a smile) in new research
In Japan, engineers are trying to make robots imitate a uniquely human expression: the smile.They created a face mask from human skin cells and attached it to robots using a new technique that hides the bond and is flexible enough to transform into a grimace or a soft smile.The effect is halfway between the terrifying Hannibal Lecter mask and the claymation figurine of Gumby.But scientists say the prototypes pave the way for more sophisticated robots, with an outer layer that is elastic and strong enough to protect the machine while making it more humane.The “skin equivalent,” as researchers call it, made from living skin cells in the lab can scar, burn, and even heal itself, according to a study published June 25 in the journal Cell Reports Physical Science."Human-like faces and expressio...