Capability Lifecycle Governance in Autonomous Robotic Systems

This paper introduces a structured governance framework for managing the lifecycle of capabilities in autonomous robotic systems. The model defines how robotic capabilities are specified, validated, authorized, activated, monitored, suspended, and revoked within a governance architecture that separates decision authority from execution mechanisms. A conceptual authorization function and a capability governance state machine are introduced to formalize how robotic systems may control the activation of capabilities under safety, policy, and environmental constraints. The framework contributes to emerging research on robotics governance and safety architecture by providing a structured lifecycle model for capability management in autonomous systems.