How can this be done given that the object to be printed is the same size as itself? In the CubePro printers that I have used before, the object to be printed is inside some kind of glass panel. Only objects that are smaller can be printed.
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$\begingroup$ This question is based on an assumption, namely that 3D printers can print themselves in one piece. Maybe you could edit this question to add some basis for this assumption? $\endgroup$– Tom van der ZandenCommented Dec 26, 2016 at 11:32
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$\begingroup$ This question doesn't show much sign of any research. I'm struggling to see how it can be improved to be honest. $\endgroup$– Sean HoulihaneCommented Dec 26, 2016 at 11:32
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3D printers obviously do not print themselves. 3D printers are sometimes used to make parts for other 3D printers, and this is what is meant by "self-replicating" 3D printers (which is a bit of a misnomer, considering that all designs require a substantial amount of non-printed "vitamin" parts).
A printer that is able to produce many of its own parts is the RepRap snappy, which (as the name suggests) consists of plastic parts that - while they each fit within the build volume - snap together to make up the larger parts for the printer.
answered Dec 26, 2016 at 11:31
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1$\begingroup$ So, replicating printers mean they print components of a 3D printer but assembly of these components is still a separate process? $\endgroup$ Commented Dec 26, 2016 at 11:47