Dynamic display of facial expressions on the face robot made by using a life mask

Abstract

In face-to-face communication, we use not only verbal medium but also non-verbal medium for communication. In particular, facial expressions are very important for emotional communication because they show emotions and feelings effectively. Therefore it is considered that facial expressions are necessary in order to make human-robot communication more naturally. In this paper, ldquoFace Robotrdquo that has human-like appearance and can display facial expressions similar to human being is developed. In order to improve the humanity, the skin of the face robot is taken from the cast of existing femalepsilas face (i.e. life-mask). We then add and improve control points of the face robot according to features of her face. Moreover we analyze her facial expressions in order to mimic her dynamic facial expressions with the face robot. We then confirm that mimicking of her dynamic facial expressions and face features with the face robot are reproduced successfully.