Selvassembly

Selvassembly is a term that does not have a single, widely accepted definition in scientific or engineering literature. It may be a misspelling, a shorthand, or a neologism used in specific communities. As such, its meaning can vary depending on context and source.

One plausible interpretation is that selvassembly refers to self-assembly, a bottom-up process by which components organize into structured aggregates without external guidance. Self-assembly is driven by noncovalent interactions, thermodynamics, and environmental conditions. In chemistry, biology, and nanotechnology, it underpins the formation of micelles, lipid membranes, protein complexes, and DNA-inspired nanostructures such as DNA origami. These assemblies can act as templates, catalysts, or functional materials.

Another possible meaning is "SELV assembly" in the sense of safety extra-low voltage (SELV) systems. In electrical engineering, SELV denotes circuits designed to operate below a defined voltage limit to reduce electric shock risk. Assemblies in this context emphasize insulation, isolation, and safe layout practices, and they are governed by standards that specify voltage thresholds, creepage distances, and protection measures appropriate to consumer electronics, medical devices, and other equipment.

Because the term lacks a fixed definition, clarification from specific sources is required to determine the intended meaning in a given case.