Human-like android face equipped with EAP artificial muscles to endow expressivity

Electroactive polymer artificial muscles (EAP) can be used to mimic human muscles. In an attempt to exploit these properties we are developing in our laboratory a human-like android unit able to replicate human facial expressions. The android is equipped with linear actuators and is made up of a multisensing acquisition system able to assess rheological and organoleptic properties of food. After the data analysis, the android looks like a man who tastes similar substances. It develops expressions mimicking human responses to the same foodstuff. In this paper we will present the design and relevant features of the artificial muscles and the performance of the android. Human anatomy and mechanical studies were needed to construct the carbon fiber composite holding structure. Location and electromechanical characteristics of EAP actuators were investigated. The system holds sensors, artificial skin and actuators to obtain suitable expressions, implementing the chewing phase, performed by a dedicated actuator, from the expressive phase achieved through multiactuator synergistic drive.