Although science fiction should serve to alert people, it seems that we do not pay attention and we go straight to ensuring that the T-800 from Terminator is real.
The iconic science fiction film Terminatordirected by James Cameron and released in 1984, it presented us with a dark future where machines, controlled by an artificial intelligence called skynet, they rebel against humanity. The film’s plot revolves around a murderous cyborg, played by Arnold Schwarzeneggersent from the future to eliminate Sarah Connor (Linda Hamilton), whose existence is crucial to the human resistance against the machines. In a dramatic twist, a resistance soldier, Kyle Reese (Michael Biehn), is also sent back in time to protect Sarah and ensure humanity’s survival.
Now, the Terminator’s dystopian vision is getting closer to our contemporary reality, thanks to impressive advances in robotics and artificial intelligence. Shoji Takeuchi, a professor at the University of Tokyo, is one of the pioneers in the field of biohybrid robotics, an area where biology and mechanical engineering converge in surprising ways.
Advances in biohybrid robotics.
It seems like science fiction, but it’s real. The Tokyo Biohybrid Systems Laboratory, led by Takeuchi, has accomplished feats that once seemed impossible, such as creating mini robots that walk using biological muscle tissue and growing printed meat. Recently, his team has taken an even bolder step by developing engineered skin that can heal and adhere to robotic surfaces effectively.
One of the most notable advances is the proposed perforation-type anchor for adhering living skin to robotic surfaces. This anchor mimics human skin ligaments by gelling the skin tissue through perforations, allowing for a secure and functional attachment. To demonstrate the versatility of this technique, 3D facial molds with intricate surface structure have been covered using these anchors, and a robotic face covered with equivalent dermis capable of expressing smiles has been built.
Future implications.
Takeuchi and his team’s research not only represents a breakthrough in robotics, but also raises ethical and existential questions that align with concerns raised in Terminator. The ability of robots to look and behave more humanly could transform entire industries, from healthcare to entertainment. However, it also brings us closer to a scenario where machines could acquire a disturbing degree of autonomy.
The rapid adoption of artificial intelligence in various fields of daily life reinforces this narrative. From virtual assistants to advanced surveillance systems, AI is playing an increasingly central role in our lives. Combining advanced artificial intelligence with biohybrid robots raises the possibility of machines that not only think and learn, but also look and behave like human beings. In science fiction movies this almost never ends well.
Final reflection.
As we celebrate these scientific advances, it is crucial to remember the lessons of Terminator, The Matrix, I, Robot and other science fiction films. For they are not only thrilling tales of action and survival, but also a warning about the potential dangers of over-reliance on technology.
In this link you will find a great recommendation for a science fiction movie.
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David Larrad
He studied Audiovisual Production of Shows and Television at the Foundation for Audiovisual Education. She completed a Master of Graphic and 3D Design.
