The software translates complex mathematical logic into simple text, which can be easily understood by humans. This enables the computer and the human to "discuss" a plan before a task is undertaken.

The human can interrogate the computer using a keyboard, asking it to provide justifications for its decisions, or provide additional information for the computer to integrate into its plans. The human can also suggest alternatives or point out issues with the chosen course of action.

One of the principal aims of the technology is to build trust between autonomous systems (robots) and humans. Autonomous systems are already an integral part of modern industry, used to carry out tasks without continuous human guidance.

Dr Wamberto Vasconcelos from the University of Aberdeen's School of Natural and Computing Sciences explained that autonomous systems can quickly process huge amounts of information, but in doing so can make mistakes which are not obvious to them or to a human.

"Evidence shows there may be mistrust when there are no provisions to help a human to understand why an autonomous system has decided to perform a specific task, at a particular time, and in a certain way," he explained.