Scientists in Japan have developed a robotic skin that can mimic human facial expressions, including smiling. The artificial skin, made from flexible 3D-printed materials and embedded with a network of sensors and actuators, can stretch and deform like real skin. When voltage is applied to the actuators, they contract and cause the skin to move and form expressions like smiles or frowns. The researchers aim to use this technology to create more expressive and lifelike robots that can better interact with humans. The robotic skin could also have applications in prosthetics, allowing artificial limbs to mimic natural facial movements. While still in the early stages, this innovation brings us a step closer to robots that can convey emotions and engage in more natural communication.
Source: https://www.cnn.com/2024/06/28/science/japan-robotic-skin-smile-hnk-spc-intl/index.html