Don't worry, I don't think you were disrespectful at all. I can see how that part is rather confusing if you're not already familiar with Nanobots.
The main thing I take away from Nanobots is that these early robots themselves are a consumable resource, as opposed to a rechargeable robot. I think it gives an interesting dynamic of trading some resources for convenience. They're relatively cheap though, because otherwise it'd become too expensive, especially when laying belt and rail, or for clearing forests.
Thanks for the endorsement, it's always very nice to hear that someone is using and enjoying something you created :).