Application of image processing to micro-milling process for surface texturing

Micro-milling is a well-known process for the micro-fabrication of miniature parts. Miniature parts are often used in the medical and biology fields. In these fields, surface texture plays an important role in enhancing tactile qualities, aesthetics, and functionality. Most of the surface textures in medical or biology applications are very complex and difficult to design on computer-aided design (CAD) software. In this study, we develop a rapid process to acquire complex texture data by using an image processing technique. A complex surface texture representing human skin is transferred to a metal surface. Several image processing step are used and pixel intensity based height mapping for a two-dimensional (2-D) image to a three-dimensional (3-D) surface is described. The surface texture is fabricated on aluminium using a micro-milling process. We describe a process in which polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is micromolded to the fabricated surface texture to produce an artificial skin.