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arXiv · 2407.14556

Mechanical Self-replication

Ralph P. Lano
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Abstract

This study presents a theoretical model for a self-replicating mechanical system inspired by biological processes within living cells and supported by computer simulations. The model decomposes self-replication into core components, each of which is executed by a single machine constructed from a set of basic block types. Key functionalities such as sorting, copying, and building, are demonstrated. The model provides valuable insights into the constraints of self-replicating systems. The discussion also addresses the spatial and timing behavior of the system, as well as its efficiency and complexity. This work provides a foundational framework for future studies on self-replicating mechanisms and their information-processing applications.

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Ralph P. Lano. 2024-07-18. Mechanical Self-replication. https://doi.org/10.1090/qam%2F1709

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