autonomous UGV (AGV) is essentially an autonomous robot that operates without the need for a human controller on the basis of artificial intelligence technologies. The vehicle uses its sensors to develop some limited understanding of the environment, which is then used by control algorithms to determine the next action to take in the context of a human provided mission goal. This fully eliminates the need for any human to watch over the menial tasks that the AGV is completing. A fully autonomous robot may have the ability to: Collect information about the environment, such as building maps of building interiors. Detect objects of interest such as people and vehicles. Travel between waypoints without human navigation assistance. Work for extended durations without human intervention. Avoid situations that are harmful to people, property or itself, unless those are part of its design specifications Disarm, or remove explosives. Repair itself without outside assistance. A robot may also be able to learn autonomously. Autonomous learning includes the ability to: Learn or gain new capabilities without outside assistance. Adjust strategies based on the surroundings. Adapt to surroundings without outside assistance. Develop a sense of ethics regarding mission goals. Autonomous robots still require regular maintenance, as with all machines. One of the most crucial aspects to consider when developing armed autonomous machines is the distinction between combatants and civilians. If done incorrectly, robot deployment can be detrimental. This is particularly true in the modern era, when combatants often intentionally disguise themselves as civilians to avoid detection. Even if a robot maintained 99% accuracy, the number of civilian lives lost can still be catastrophic. Due to this, it is unlikely that any fully autonomous machines will be sent into battle armed, at least until a satisfactory solution can be developed. Some examples of autonomous UGV technology are: Vehicles developed for the DARPA Grand Challenge Autonomous car Multifunctional Utility/Logistics and Equipment vehicle Crusher developed by CMU for DARPA THeMIS developed by Milrem Robotics remote delivery devices Guidance interface Depending on the type of control system, the interface between machine and human operator can include joystick, computer programs, or voice command. Communication links Communication between UGV and control station can be done via radio control or fiber optics. It may also include communication with other machines and robots involved in the operation. Systems integration Systems architecture integrates the interplay between hardware and software and determines UGV success and autonomy.