Fabrication of Artificial Skin for Robotic Head Based on Silicone Rubber

Abstract

In this study, artificial skin based on silicone rubber is introduced for a robot head of the same size and shape as an actual person. The artificial skin is described from designing to molding the skin for a robot head, which mimics a young woman’s head. Fabricated skin is different from regular masks because it has to cover the core mechanical systems and move together. Skin movements create emotions on the face and give the appearance of a robot head. The robot has the same expressive and oral capabilities as humans and is integrated with artificial intelligence platforms. The knowledge of head anatomy and the parameters of the operation of the head will be applied in the design and fabrication of core mechanical mechanisms and their covering skin. This study analyses the basic knowledge of skin anatomy as well as the fabricating steps to make artificial skin made of silicone rubber material. The knowledge of skin anatomy is the foundation to study and analyze the general characteristics of human skin such as elasticity, color, elasticity, etc. Manufacturing methods for artificial skin are researched and selected accordingly. Finally, the artificial skin is created to make the robot head’s expression more realistic. Experimental results showed that the robot meets design requirements, has an 89.83% accuracy rate of human identification of robot expressions, and is highly appreciated by users in interactive experiments.