Embryonic arrays are cellular based digital system that make use of reconfigurable technologies to generate some features found in the embryonic development of biological entities. Typically a rectangular array of cells is implemented, each cell containing the complete description of the whole system. A coordinate system is used to select the functionality of each cell. This generates a quick method for reconfiguration, either to change functionality or to accommodate faults.

This paper provides a brief review and critique of previous implementations before presenting a novel system. Unlike previous examples the array proposed only stores enough configuration data to accommodate a single fault or update. However, once this has occurred the system can reconfigure itself to be prepared for further faults or changes; this occurs in the background while the array still functions. The desired features of the array are provided but in a much more efficient manner. It also allows for a more fault tolerant implementation than current embryonic arrays.