6,639 research outputs found
Self-replicating systems: A systems engineering approach
A first approach to conceptualize self-replicating systems was developed from past and present abstract theories. The engineering elements of self-replicating systems are defined in terms of a basic reference system. A number of options are investigated. The growth characteristics and their problems are analyzed, the mathematics of various exponential growth options are outlined, and the problems of universal parts production and systems closure are discussed. Selected areas of further study are defined and a 20 year development and demonstration program is presented
Open problems in artificial life
This article lists fourteen open problems in artificial life, each of which is a grand challenge requiring a major advance on a fundamental issue for its solution. Each problem is briefly explained, and, where deemed helpful, some promising paths to its solution are indicated
A stochastic self-replicating robot capable of hierarchical assembly
This paper presents the development of a self-replicating mobile robot that functions by undergoing stochastic motions. The robot functions hierarchically. There are three stages in this hierarchy: (1) An initial pool of feed modules/parts together with one functional basic robot; (2) a collection of basic robots that are spontaneously formed out of these parts as a result of a chain reaction induced by stochastic motion of the initial seed robot at stage 1; (3) complex formations of joined basic robots from stage 2. In the first part of this paper we demonstrate basic stochastic self-replication in unstructured environments. A single functional robot moves around at random in a sea of stock modules and catalyzes the conversion of these modules into replicas. In the second part of the paper, the robots are upgraded with a layer that enables mechanical connections between robots. The replicas can then connect to each other and aggregate. Finally, self-reconfigurability is presented for two robotic aggregation
The Immune System: the ultimate fractionated cyber-physical system
In this little vision paper we analyze the human immune system from a
computer science point of view with the aim of understanding the architecture
and features that allow robust, effective behavior to emerge from local sensing
and actions. We then recall the notion of fractionated cyber-physical systems,
and compare and contrast this to the immune system. We conclude with some
challenges.Comment: In Proceedings Festschrift for Dave Schmidt, arXiv:1309.455
Bio-inspired Tensegrity Soft Modular Robots
In this paper, we introduce a design principle to develop novel soft modular
robots based on tensegrity structures and inspired by the cytoskeleton of
living cells. We describe a novel strategy to realize tensegrity structures
using planar manufacturing techniques, such as 3D printing. We use this
strategy to develop icosahedron tensegrity structures with programmable
variable stiffness that can deform in a three-dimensional space. We also
describe a tendon-driven contraction mechanism to actively control the
deformation of the tensegrity mod-ules. Finally, we validate the approach in a
modular locomotory worm as a proof of concept.Comment: 12 pages, 7 figures, submitted to Living Machine conference 201
Conclusions and implications of automation in space
Space facilities and programs are reviewed. Space program planning is discussed
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