Self-healing 'living skin' can make robots more humanlike

Researchers have developed a method using cultured skin cells and silicone to create self-healing "living skin" for robots, enhancing their human-like appearance and functionality. This innovative approach involves injecting artificially grown skin into tiny holes in a robot's skeleton, allowing the skin to attach securely without sagging. The skin can repair cuts and scrapes autonomously, mimicking the healing process of human skin. By utilizing v-shaped hooks called "perforation-type anchors," the skin remains smooth and flexible on the robot's surface. This advancement not only improves the aesthetics of robots but also enhances their durability, enabling them to operate alongside humans without significant wear and tear. The study, published in the journal Cell Reports Physical Science, highlights the potential for robots to have lifelike skin that can convey sensory information like touch and temperature in the future. Further research in this field could lead to breakthroughs in various applications, from robotics to medical treatments for conditions like facial paralysis.