Human-like robots one step closer as Tokyo scientists create new skin
Scientists from the University of Tokyo have cultivated human skin with the properties of "adhering" to various surfaces. The effect is remarkable. Is humanity now capable of creating a fully humanoid robot? For now, it seems we are getting closer.
30 June 2024 07:54
Researchers under the guidance of Professor Shoji Takeuchi from the University of Tokyo created human skin from a mixture of human cells grown on a collagen model and placed on a resin base printed in 3D. The model on which they demonstrated the invention "moves" and has glass eyes - the sight is astonishing.
However, this is not the main breakthrough in this invention. The research team, led by Professor Shoji Takeuchi from the University of Tokyo, created skin that possesses specially perforated anchors. These anchors have the properties of "adhering" to other tissues.
(...) This material is strong and flexible thanks to ligament equivalents located in the deeper layers of human and animal skin - reads a post on the X platform.
Scientists involved in the project — who published their findings in the journal Cell Reports Physical Science — believe that living skin could be a groundbreaking invention for future engineers. Creating humanoid robots that "feel" like humans seems to be just a matter of time.
The goal of the project is to help robots better express emotions. Additionally, it has potential applications in cosmetology, as it develops wrinkles, allowing new cosmetic products to be tested - reports the Nexta agency in a post on the X platform.
The invention could have very broad applications. Scientists are focusing on the utility of the new skin in medicine. This includes training plastic surgeons, cosmetic research, and possibly even drug development.