Robotics: self-reproducing machines

Nature. 2005 May 12;435(7039):163-4. doi: 10.1038/435163a.

Abstract

Self-reproduction is central to biological life for long-term sustainability and evolutionary adaptation. Although these traits would also be desirable in many engineered systems, the principles of self-reproduction have not been exploited in machine design. Here we create simple machines that act as autonomous modular robots and are capable of physical self-reproduction using a set of cubes.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Artificial Intelligence*
  • Biological Evolution
  • Equipment Design
  • Life
  • Models, Biological*
  • Motion
  • Reproduction*
  • Robotics / instrumentation*