View source for Self replicating device

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There are:
* The [[Gemstone metamaterial on-chip factories]] concept
* The (outdated) [[molecular assembler]]s concept

== Delineations ==

=== Adaptivity not a requirement ===

Self replicating devices are not capable of autonomous evolution. <br>
The "sufficient adaptivity" side in the [[reproduction hexagon]] does not need to be fulfilled. <br>
While not fundamentally impossible adding such functionality would pose a greater challenge and greater development effort <br>
but not more benefit. More risk rather. Eventually.

=== Mobility not a requirement ===

Self replicating devices are not necessarily capable of autonomous locomotion. <br>
The "replicator mobility" side in the [[reproduction hexagon]] does not need to be fulfilled. <br>
They are not necessarily [[mobile robotic device]]s.

* The (outdated) [[molecular assembler]]s are mobile robotic devices
* The now targeted [[gem-gum factories]] are not capable of autonomous motion by themselves. <br> Unless one one intentional mots them on a mobile (macroscopic) chassis that is not necessary for their functioning of course.

=== Omnivorousness not a requirement ===

The "building block availability" side in the [[reproduction hexagon]] does not need to refer to the most fundamental building blocks <br>
that nature has to offer. It does not need to refer to atoms and the simple-most molecules as found lying around in nature. <br>

Especially early stage system will make a lot use of pre-produced atomically precise blocks. E.g. [[foldamer]]s. <br>
More advanced systems will be capable of processing common liquids and gasses though some of them occurring in the wild. <br>
Like e.g.: 
* Components of the air like e.g. carbon dioxide (CO<sub>2</sub>).
* Dissolved salts in water (e.g. sodium sulfate Na<sub>2</sub>SO<sub>4</sub> as a source for sulfur)
* ...

== Related ==

* [[Self replication]]
* [[Reproduction hexagon]]
* [[Bootstrapping]]
* [[Exponential assembly]]