> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://autopilot-5.gitbook.io/autopilot/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://autopilot-5.gitbook.io/autopilot/protocol/markdown/reward-processing-pipeline.md).

# Reward Processing Pipeline

Autopilot handles reward collection and distribution through a four-stage, fully on-chain process. The system is designed to ensure rewards are claimed, converted, and allocated efficiently, with no manual steps or off-chain dependencies.

***

#### Stage 1: Reward Claiming

At the end of each epoch, Autopilot claims all eligible rewards:

```solidity
solidityCopyEditvoter_contract.claimBribes(...);
rewards_distributor.claim(...);
```

* **Bribe and fee rewards** are claimed from gauge contracts.
* **Rebase rewards**, if available, are claimed from the Aerodrome `RewardsDistributor`.

Claims are executed per NFT and handled in batches by the protocol.

***

#### Stage 2: Token Aggregation

After rewards are claimed, tokens are aggregated before swap execution:

* Tokens are first held by the main Autopilot contract.
* `fillSwapper()` transfers all reward tokens to the `SwapperV1` contract.

This reduces redundant transactions and prepares the rewards for efficient conversion.

***

#### Stage 3: USDC Conversion

Claimed tokens are converted to USDC:

* `SwapperV1` routes each token through the most efficient on-chain DEX path.
* Slippage controls and MEV protections are applied during swap execution.
* Converted USDC is sent to the `RewardsVault`.

This standardizes rewards and removes token volatility before distribution.

***

#### Stage 4: Proportional Distribution

User rewards are calculated based on their voting power relative to the total:

```solidity
solidityCopyEdituser_reward = (user_voting_power * total_rewards) / total_voting_power;
```

* Distribution is proportional to each user’s vote weight.
* Rewards are unaffected by deposit timing, assuming it occurred outside the Special Window.
* No manual adjustments or overrides are possible.
* A scaled accumulator system ensures full precision.

***

### 🔐 RewardsVault & Claiming

* All rewards are held in the `RewardsVault` until claimed.
* Users can claim USDC at any time, outside the post-epoch Special Window.
* Claims are processed with a single transaction per wallet.

***

#### Key Properties

* **Fair**: Rewards are based strictly on voting power
* **Consistent**: Behavior is deterministic and contract-enforced
* **Efficient**: Execution is optimized for batching and gas usage

> Autopilot turns raw protocol rewards into stable USDC — fully automated, on-chain, and proportional.