Verbot Manual

March 15, 2017 | Author: Armin Amiri | Category: N/A
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Contents

I

Table of Contents Foreword

0

Part I Introduction 1 Overview

4

................................................................................................................................... 4

2 System Requirements ................................................................................................................................... 5

Part II Verbot Player

6

1 Verbot Player ................................................................................................................................... Interface 7 File

.......................................................................................................................................................... 8 Load KnowledgeBase ......................................................................................................................................................... 8 Reload KnowledgeBase ......................................................................................................................................................... 8 Load Text File ......................................................................................................................................................... 9 Read Clipboard ......................................................................................................................................................... 9 Auto Read ......................................................................................................................................................... Clipboard 9 Stop Agent......................................................................................................................................................... 9 Exit ......................................................................................................................................................... 9 Edit .......................................................................................................................................................... 10 Options ......................................................................................................................................................... 11 KnowledgeBases ......................................................................................................................................... Tab 11 Agent Tab ......................................................................................................................................... 13 Timers Tab ......................................................................................................................................... 14 Security Tab ......................................................................................................................................... 15 Parental Controls ......................................................................................................................................... 17 Verbots Player Tab ......................................................................................................................................... Registration 19 View ......................................................................................................................................................... 20 Download .......................................................................................................................................................... 23 Agents ......................................................................................................................................................... 23 KnowledgeBases ......................................................................................................................................................... 23 Voices ......................................................................................................................................................... 23 Help .......................................................................................................................................................... 24 Online Help ......................................................................................................................................................... 24 Community ......................................................................................................................................................... Forum 24 About ......................................................................................................................................................... 24 Right Clicks .......................................................................................................................................................... 25

2 Loading KnowledgeBases ................................................................................................................................... 26 3 Using Microsoft ................................................................................................................................... Agent 29

Part III Verbot Editor

31

1 Verbot Editor................................................................................................................................... Interface 32 File

.......................................................................................................................................................... 34 New ......................................................................................................................................................... 35 Open ......................................................................................................................................................... 35 Recent Files ......................................................................................................................................................... 35 Save ......................................................................................................................................................... 35 Save As ......................................................................................................................................................... 35 Exit ......................................................................................................................................................... 35 Tools .......................................................................................................................................................... 35 © 2006 Conversive, Inc.

II

Verbot Technology Manual KnowledgeBase ......................................................................................................................................................... Info 36 Merge KnowledgeBase ......................................................................................................................................................... 37 Print KnowledgeBase ......................................................................................................................................................... 41 Synonyms......................................................................................................................................................... 43 Replacement ......................................................................................................................................................... Profiles 43 Code Modules ......................................................................................................................................................... 45 Skin Editor ......................................................................................................................................................... 46 Search Rules ......................................................................................................................................................... 52 Test KnowledgeBase ......................................................................................................................................................... 53 Compile KnowledgeBase ......................................................................................................................................................... 56 Expand KnowledgeBase ......................................................................................................................................................... 56 Help .......................................................................................................................................................... 56 Editor Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................... 57 Online Help ......................................................................................................................................................... 57 Community ......................................................................................................................................................... Forum 57 About ......................................................................................................................................................... 58 Resource Files .......................................................................................................................................................... Details 59 Resource......................................................................................................................................................... Files 59 Rules .......................................................................................................................................................... 60 Rule Names ......................................................................................................................................................... 60 New Rule......................................................................................................................................................... 61 Rename Rule ......................................................................................................................................................... 61 New Child......................................................................................................................................................... 62 Delete Rule ......................................................................................................................................................... 62

2 Tutorials

................................................................................................................................... 63

Creating Your.......................................................................................................................................................... First Rule 64 Creating Child.......................................................................................................................................................... Rules 68 Using Virtual .......................................................................................................................................................... Child Rules 69 Creating Synonyms .......................................................................................................................................................... 73 Using Synonyms .......................................................................................................................................................... 75 Running Applications .......................................................................................................................................................... 77 Loading, Testing .......................................................................................................................................................... And Talking! Oh my! 79 How to Compile .......................................................................................................................................................... a KnowledgeBase 81 Using the Teaching.vkb .......................................................................................................................................................... KnowledgeBase 82 Verbot Editor.......................................................................................................................................................... Embed Code 86 Verbot Editor.......................................................................................................................................................... Conditionals 86

3 Advanced Features ................................................................................................................................... 87 4 Variables

................................................................................................................................... 87

Internal Variables .......................................................................................................................................................... 91 Variables with.......................................................................................................................................................... Alternate Text 93

5 Command Line ................................................................................................................................... Options 93 6 KnowledgeBase ................................................................................................................................... Templates and CSV Files 93 Creating a CSV .......................................................................................................................................................... File 94 Creating a KnowledgeBase .......................................................................................................................................................... Template 97 Expand or Compile .......................................................................................................................................................... 98

7 Tags and Inputs ................................................................................................................................... 100 MS Agent Tags .......................................................................................................................................................... 100 Special_Inputs .......................................................................................................................................................... 101 _startup......................................................................................................................................................... 102 _bored ......................................................................................................................................................... 102 _blank ......................................................................................................................................................... 102 Verbot Tags.......................................................................................................................................................... 102 © 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Contents

III

agent.load ......................................................................................................................................................... 102 exit ......................................................................................................................................................... 103 learn ......................................................................................................................................................... 103 load ......................................................................................................................................................... 105 mem.get......................................................................................................................................................... 105 mem.set......................................................................................................................................................... 106 quit ......................................................................................................................................................... 106 read ......................................................................................................................................................... 106 readprint......................................................................................................................................................... 107 run ......................................................................................................................................................... 107 send ......................................................................................................................................................... 107

Part IV Verbots Online

107

Part V Glossary

107

1 Child Rule ................................................................................................................................... 108 2 Comma Seperated ................................................................................................................................... Value Files (csv) 110 3 Compiled KnowledgeBase ................................................................................................................................... Files (ckb) 110 4 Expand

................................................................................................................................... 110

5 Input

................................................................................................................................... 111

6 KnowledgeBase ................................................................................................................................... 114 7 KnowledgeBase ................................................................................................................................... Template 114 8 Output

................................................................................................................................... 115

9 Primary Rule ................................................................................................................................... 115 10 Rule

................................................................................................................................... 115

11 Synonym ................................................................................................................................... 116 12 Synonym Output ................................................................................................................................... 117 13 Verbot

................................................................................................................................... 118

14 Virtual Child................................................................................................................................... Rule 118 15 Verbot KnowledgeBase ................................................................................................................................... Files (vkb) 118

Part VI Manual Changes History Index

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4

1

Verbot Technology Manual

Introduction

Last Update: Monday, March 20, 2006 12:23 PM

1.1

Overview The World of Verbots® A Verbot (Verbally Enhanced Software Robot) can be your personal assistant, your teacher, and your friend. Created by Conversive, the Verbot is based on more than 10 years of AI experience and development. Verbots combine natural language, artificial intelligence, and real-time animation with voice synthesis to create an engaging virtual personality. Using XML and .NET architecture, Verbots are cutting-edge technology, but they are also extremely user-friendly and easy to modify using the built-in editor. What's more, Verbots use Microsoft Agent animation, so you can easily change your Verbot's appearance. Verbots can run programs, read aloud to you, launch Web sites, and speak other languages. Verbots can do a lot more than talk. Just ask one. Verbot® 4 Standard Edition comes with two applications. Verbot® 4 Standard Edition Player, and the Verbot® Scripting Interface. The Verbots Online service allows for deployement of a web based Verbot. Verbot® Player The Verbot® Player loads KnowledgeBases and displays an animated character that you can interact with through text based conversation. Content within a KnowledgeBase Rule allows the Verbot® character to open desktop applications, and perform various animations. The Verbot Player is Free and can be used to interact with third party custom KnowledgeBases. Verbot Editor The Verbot Editor, is used to create custom KnowledgeBases. The easy to use interface allows you to create Rules which contain Inputs and Outputs. Inputs can utilize Verbot® Synonym files to help make scripting a breeze. Outputs can contain special tags which can open and run applications, as well as animate the Verbot® in many ways. If you're anxious to get started creating your own Verbot® personality see:

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Introduction

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· Tutorials Verbots Online With Verbot® 4 technology, creating your own online intelligent agent becomes as straightforward as typing a sentence. Verbots Online features (2) types of accounts: Basic and Pro. Basic accounts allow you to fill out a predefined template to create a custom personality for your blog, social web site or any other website. A Verbots Online Pro account allows you upload and deploy custom KnowledgeBases created with the Verbot Editor - to extend and enhance your Verbots Online Virtual Personality. Please read through this documentation so you can get the most out of your Verbot. This manual includes information on Verbot Player, Verbot Editor, and Verbots Online. Learn more about: · Verbot Player · Verbot Editor · Verbots Online

1.2

System Requirements The following information provides system requirement information for Verbot 4 Standard Edition, and Verbots Online.

Verbot 4 Standard Edition (Verbot Player and Verbot Editor) System Requirements: · · · · ·

Windows 2000/XP Microsoft Agent Text to Speech Engine .Net Framework 1.1 or higher SAPI 4.0*

Microsoft Agent Links: Microsoft Agent Main page: http://www.microsoft.com/msagent/ Microsoft Agent Download page: http://www.microsoft.com/msagent/downloads/user.asp Microsoft Text to Speech Downloads: http://www.microsoft.com/msagent/downloads/user.asp#tts *Windows XP users require SAPI 4.0 download http://www.microsoft.com/msagent/downloads/user.asp#sapi Microsoft .Net Framework Downloads: The best way to install the .Net Framework is through Windows Update. Locate it and install as needed from Windows Update. http://www.windowsupdate.com Alternative Download: http://msdn.microsoft.com/netframework/technologyinfo/howtoget/default.aspx © 2006 Conversive, Inc.

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Verbot Technology Manual

Verbots Online System Requirements: Due to the nature of the Verbots Online Service, additional requirements are listed for the creation of custom KnowledgeBases. Minimal Requirements for Verbots Online: PC Requirements: · Internet Explorer 4.x or higher (PC) · FireFox 1.x or higher (PC) · Mozilla 5.x or higher (PC) · Opera ?.x or higher (PC) MAC Requirements: · Internet Explorer 4.x or higher (MAC) · FireFox 1.x or higher (MAC) · Mozilla 5.x or higher (MAC) · Opera ?.x or higher (MAC) · Safari ?.x or higher (MAC)

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Verbot Player

From start to finish you'll have fun! This Section is designed to get you up and running with the Verbot® Player. The Verbot® Player Interface is an easy to use interface with powerful features. While you can get started by simply double clicking on the Verbot® Player icon.

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Player

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Verbot® Player has been designed to allow you to interact with standard Verbot characters (such as Julia, and Ka) as well as any third party characters and KnowledgeBases. Please take some time to learn about the Verbot Player features to get the most out of your Verbot friend. The Verbot® Player Interface This section will introduce you to the Verbot® Player Interface. Learn out about the features of the interface and where they are located. All About Custom KnowledgeBases The Verbot® Player allows you to load custom KnowledgeBases which can be obtained by creating them using the Verbot® Scripting Interface, from friends and family, and off the Internet. Verbot® Characters and More The Verbot® Player currently uses Microsoft Agent Technology for voice and character graphics. Find out all about Microsoft Agents and more.

2.1

Verbot Player Interface

This section will introduce you to the Verbot® Player Interface. Learn about the features of the interface and where they are located.

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2.1.1

Verbot Technology Manual

File

Learn about the following File menu items: · Load KnowledgeBase · Reload KnowledgeBase(s) · Load Text File · Read Clipboard · Auto Read Clipboard · Stop Agent · Exit 2.1.1.1

Load KnowledgeBase The "Load KnowledgeBase" menu item allows you to load Compiled KnowledgeBases (.ckb) and regular Verbot KnowledgeBases (.vkb). Note: The free Verbot Player can only load Compiled KnowledgeBases (.ckb). To load both .ckb and .vkb files requires Verbot Standard Edition

2.1.1.2

Reload KnowledgeBase "Reload KnowledgeBases" allows you to refresh the currently loaded KnowledgeBase(s). This is used mainly when you are working on a KnowledgeBase using the Verbot Scripting Interface and wish to refresh any changes you may have made into the Verbot Player.

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Player

2.1.1.3

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Load Text File The "Load Text File" menu item allows you to load a .txt or .rtf file. Once loaded, the Verbot will read the file to you.

2.1.1.4

Read Clipboard The "Read Clipboard" menu item allows the Verbot to speak read text that has been copied to the Windows clipboard using "ctrl-c" or "right mouse click" --> "copy" For example you can highlight text on a web page and press "ctrl-c" on your keyboard to copy the selected text. On the Verbot Player click "File" --> "Read Clipboard". The Verbot will then read the text.

2.1.1.5

Auto Read Clipboard The "Auto Read Clipboard" menu item allows the Verbot to automatically read the contents of the clipboard whenever it changes. For example you can highlight text on a web page and press "ctrl-c" on your keyboard to copy the selected text. If "Auto Read Clipboard" is checked - the Verbot will read the newly copied text.

2.1.1.6

Stop Agent Quiet Agent! Quiet! If the Verbot is talking too much, or if by some mistake you asked the Verbot to read War and Peace aloud to you - the "Stop Agent" menu item will instantly stop the Agent from speaking. Note: You may also "right-click" on the Verbot Player to access this "Stop Agent" option.

2.1.1.7

Exit Exit - exits the Verbot Player.

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2.1.2

Verbot Technology Manual

Edit

Learn about the Edit menu items: · Options KnowledgeBase Tab Agent Tab Timers Tab Security Tab Parental Controls Tab Registration Tab · View

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Player

2.1.2.1

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Options

Learn more about Tabs on the Option Panel: · Options KnowledgeBase Tab Agent Tab Timers Tab Security Tab Parental Controls Tab Registration Tab 2.1.2.1.1 KnowledgeBases Tab

The "KnowledgeBases tab" allows you to load various KnowledgeBase files into the Verbot Player. Note: The free Verbot Player can only load Compiled KnowledgeBases (.ckb). To load both .ckb and .vkb files requires Verbot Standard Edition

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

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Verbot Technology Manual

Loaded KnowledgeBases The left side below the "KnowledgeBase tab" displays selected KnowledgeBases. If a KnowledgeBases has a check mark next to it, it mean that the said KnowledgeBase is currently loaded into the Verbot memory. You may select and unselect KnowledgeBases to your liking to alter the personality of your Verbot. You may keep an unselected KnowledgeBase in the list, but only those that have the check mark affect the knowledge/personality of the Verbot. Also note that the order the KnowledgeBases are in dictates which Rules will have priority over similar matching Rules (i.e. if you have a Rule for "Hello" in both KnowledgeBases that appear on the list below, the Rule that is in the "Julia.vkb" will always take matching priority over the "Hello" Rule within "song_creator.vkb"). For example if I have a Rule for "Hello" in both KnowledgeBases the Rule which is the "Julia.vkb" will always override the "hello" Rule within "song_creator.vkb" Adding KnowledgeBases To add a KnowledgeBase click the "Add" button. Locate the .ckb or .vkb file you wish to load and click "Open" The selected KnowledgeBase will load and be placed at the top of the listed KnowledgeBases. For example if you load the "Julia.vkb" I will get the following results:

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Player

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You'll notice both are checked. Checked KnowledgeBases will be loaded into the Verbot's memory. Removing KnowledgeBases To remove a KnowledgeBase simply select the KnowledgeBase you wish to removed and click "Remove". Move Up Use the "Move Up" button to raise the priority of a KnowledgeBase. By moving selected KnowledgeBases up and down you can change the priority of Rules. For example if I you have a Rule for "Hello" in both KnowledgeBases the Rule that appear on the list below, the which is the Rule that is in "Julia.vkb" will always take priority over the "Hello" Rule within "song_creator.vkb" Move Down Use the "Move Down" button to lower the priority of a KnowledgeBase. By moving selected KnowledgeBases down your list of loaded KnowledgeBases, you are in essence, giving priority to the KnowledgeBase which is above your currently selected KnowledgeBase. KnowledgeBase Description The KnowledgeBase Description shows information such as author, copyright, creation date, intended audience, and more. Close The "Close" button simply closes the Options window. 2.1.2.1.2 Agent Tab

Changing the Look of the Verbot Player The Verbot Skin browse button allows you to search for Verbot Skin files (.skn). Skin files contain information such as Verbot Player window size, agent, background color, fonts, and font colors. © 2006 Conversive, Inc.

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Verbot Technology Manual

Skin Files are created within the Verbot Scripting Interface. Changing Characters The "Agent tab" is used to change the Verbot character. This only applies if you have more than one MS Agent file installed. Agent Customization The Agent Customization section lets you select any MS Agent installed on your system, select a TTS Mode (based on Installed TTS Engines), as well as adjust the Speed and Pitch of the Voice. Note: The Agent Customization options are only available if a Skin is NOT loaded. Click the "Clear" button to clear the selected Skin and allow access to Agent Customization options.

2.1.2.1.3 Timers Tab

The "Timers tab" contains the "Boredom Response Timer" as well as the "Auto Enter Timer". Boredom Response Timer The "Boredom Response Timer" is used to control the amount of time before a Verbot becomes "bored" and begins to fire a boredom response. The "Boredom Response Timer" can be deactivated by setting the number of minutes to 0. Auto Enter Timer The "Auto Enter Timer" is used to set the number of seconds the Verbot Input box will wait before its contents are sent to the Verbot's brain. This feature is best used with third party speech recognition software, and is disabled by setting the number of seconds to 0 (default state).

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Player

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2.1.2.1.4 Security Tab

The Security Tab lists loaded KnowledgeBases and their security settings. Since Verbots can execute programs on your system the Verbot will pop-up a "warning message" before executing a command. You can choose to execute the command by clicking "Yes". You may also select "No" to ignore the command.

To see what command is attempting to be executed click the "Show Details" button.

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Verbot Technology Manual

However, if you select "Check to remember my choice" the KnowledgeBase will be considered to be "Trusted". All further commands in the KnowledgeBase will be executed without warning or delay. It is recommended that you know the KnowledgeBase content before allowing it to be set as "Trusted". At anytime you can move a KnowledgeBase to the "Trusted" or "Untrusted" list using the check box.

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Player

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2.1.2.1.5 Parental Controls

The "Parental Controls" tab allows you to select the maximum KnowledgeBase Rating the Verbot will load. This can be used to prevent undesired content from being loaded into the Verbot Player.

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

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Verbot Technology Manual

To use this feature, set the maximum rating level allowed. In other word, if you select the maximum KnowledgeBase Rating "Mature," that means that the user can load and use KnowledgeBases with any type of content, such as "Kids", "General", "Teens", and "Mature". You can also set specific content elements which you do not want to load. For example, while you may set the maximum level mature, you may wish to exclude "Sexual Content", and "Violence" but allow "Strong Language". Below is an example of Parental Controls set to allow "Mature" content and "Strong Language" but NOT "Sexual Content" and "Violence".

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Player

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The "Lock" button allows a password to be assigned to the Parental Controls. Once locked, the password is required to unlock the Parental Controls to make any further changes. 2.1.2.1.6 Verbots Player Tab Registration

When you purchase Verbot 4 Standard Edition or upgrade to a Verbots Online Pro account you will recieve a registration code. To unlock the Verbot Editor enter the registration code that was sent to your email address. The registration code and also be entered at Verbots Online to activate Verbots Online Pro account features based on your Verbots Online account status. Verbot Standard Edition Registration:

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Verbot Technology Manual

Verbots Online Registration: 2.1.2.2

View The "View" option allows you to set the Verbot Player to different preset sizes. Note: If a Skin has been loaded which disables "Window Resize" - The Verbot "View" option will be disabled (As shown below).

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Player

Normal Window In this mode, the Verbot face, Input, and Output are displayed.

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Verbot Technology Manual

Small Window In this mode, only the face and Input box are displayed.

Face Only In this mode, only the face is displayed.

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Player

2.1.3

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Download

Learn more about the Download menu item: · Agents · KnowledgeBases · Voices 2.1.3.1

Agents The "Agents" feature in the "Download" menu opens a web page where you can find downloadable Agents from Verbots.com. As time goes by, we'll be adding new Agents graphics for you to download and interact with.

2.1.3.2

KnowledgeBases The "KnowledgeBases" feature in the "Download" menu opens a web page where you can find downloadable "KnowledgeBases" from Verbots.com. Available from 3rd party script writers from around the world, you'll find a vast variety of downloadable KnowledgeBases, including educational, foreign language, conversational, and personal assistant, among other.

2.1.3.3

Voices The "Voices" feature in the "Download" menu loads the following URL: http://www.microsoft.com/msagent/ There, you will find a multitude of available Text-to-Speech engines supporting different spoken languages.

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

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2.1.4

Verbot Technology Manual

Help

Learn more about the Help menu items: · Online Help · Community Forum · About 2.1.4.1

Online Help Online Help is the file you are currently viewing. The latest version is always available from the Verbot menu. You may also download the latest version for local and offline use.

2.1.4.2

Community Forum The Community menu item links to the Verbot Community Forum. Once you join the forum you can post questions, suggestions and interact with the Verbot community. You'll also have access to downloads such as Verbot Skins and Scripts.

2.1.4.3

About About displays copyright and build information. When reporting bugs it's important to mention which version you're currently running. For example the screenshots on this page were taken from Verbot version 4.1.0.10

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Player

2.1.5

25

Right Clicks Quiet Agent! Quiet! If the Verbot is talking too much, or if by some mistake you asked the Verbot to read War and Peace aloud to you - the "Stop Agent" menu item will instantly stop the Agent from speaking or by "rightclicking" on the Verbot Player to access this "Stop Agent" option.

Window Size & Skin Size If you've own the Verbot Standard Edition, "right-clicking" on the Verbot interface allows you access to the current Windows sizes. This information comes in handy when creating Skins using Verbot Standard Edition.

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

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2.2

Verbot Technology Manual

Loading KnowledgeBases One of the most powerful features of the Verbot Player interface is the ability to load custom KnowledgeBases from third party developers - including family and friends!

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Player

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Giving your Verbot more personality. The "KnowledgeBase tab" gives you access to several functions. The "Add" button allows you to browse for custom KnowledgeBases. When a KnowledgeBase is added, it appears at the top of the list and enabled (checked). You can load several KnowledgeBases and activate and deactivate them using the check box to the left of the KnowledgeBase name. After loading start promoting. Once you have the desired KnowledgeBase(s) loaded you can arrange them in order of priority. The Rules in the top KnowledgeBase have priority over Rules within the other KnowledgeBases (even if they are selected) when it searches for Rules to match to, is on the list tells the Verbot the order in which it priority to matches. For example, if you were to load a custom KnowledgeBase (.ckb) that added knowledge about dogs. You could choose to bump it up the list to increase its priority and make sure that the Verbot looks for a response in the dog KnowledgeBase first and then searches the "Julia" KnowledgeBase if no answer was found. This way, the dog KnowledgeBase would most likely have a detailed answer about a dog instead of Julia's generic dog Rule. To put it simply, add-on scripts should be placed higher than larger default scripts. If you have more questions regarding KnowledgeBase priorities please visit us at: http://www.verbots.com/forum/

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Verbot Technology Manual

Download KnowledgeBases Click on "Download"-->"KnowledgeBases" on the menu to visit the Verbot.com downloads area.

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Player

2.3

29

Using Microsoft Agent Verbot Player 4 currently supports MS Agent characters. What this means is that any MS Agent that can be downloaded from the Internet can be used in conjunction with the Verbot Player. This means that you can change Julia to Microsoft Peedy or any other downloadable MS Agent character.

Change your Character. To change your current character to any other you had previously installed. Click on the "Tools"->"Options"-->"Agent" tab. Use the drop-down list to select the desired installed character and press the "Close" button.

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Verbot Technology Manual

If you wish to download more characters, you may do so by clicking "Download"-->"Agents" to visit the Verbot.com download area.

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Editor

3

31

Verbot Editor Verbot Technology was designed from the ground up to be user friendly, yet powerful. If you're eager to begin Scripting we provided links to a few terms and tutorials to quickly get you up and running. Terms you should know: · · · · ·

KnowledgeBase Rule Input Output Synonym

How To's to get you up and running: · · · · ·

Creating your First Rule Creating Child Rules Using Virtual Child Rules Creating Synonyms Using Synonyms

Once you've mastered creating Rules and Synonyms you'll be ready to move on to more advanced features.

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3.1

Verbot Technology Manual

Verbot Editor Interface When the Verbot Scripting Interface (VSI) first opens, you will have access to the following items: · File · New · Open · Recent Files · Save · Save As · Exit · Tools · Edit KnowledgeBase Info · Merge KnowledgeBase · Print KnowledgeBase · Synonyms · Replacement Profiles · Skin Editor © 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Editor

· · · ·

Search Rules Test KnowledgeBase Compile KnowledgeBase Expand KnowledgeBase

· Help · Editor Introduction · Online Help · Community Forum · About · Resource Files Details · Resource Files · Add Files · Delete Files · Rules · Rule Name · New Rule · Rename Rule · New Child · Delete Rule

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3.1.1

Verbot Technology Manual

File

Learn more about the File menu items: · New · Open © 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Editor

35

· Recent Files · Save · Save As · Exit 3.1.1.1

New The "New" menu item allows you to create a new KnowledgeBase for your agent.

3.1.1.2

Open The "Open" item on the menu allows you to open a previously saved KnowledgeBase, or a KnowledgeBase which may have been downloaded.

3.1.1.3

Recent Files The "Recent Files" item on the menu allows you to open recently opened KnowledgeBases. Use this feature to quickly load KnowledgeBases you have been working with.

3.1.1.4

Save The "Save" menu item saves the currently opened KnowledgeBase.

3.1.1.5

Save As The "Save As" menu item saves the currently opened KnowledgeBase under a different name.

3.1.1.6

Exit "Exit" of course, exits the Verbot Scripting Interface.

3.1.2

Tools

Learn more about the Tools menu items: · Edit KnowledgeBase Information

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Verbot Technology Manual

· Merge KnowledgeBase · Print KnowledgeBase · Synonyms · Replacement Profiles · Code Modules · Skin Editor · Search Rules · Test KnowledgeBase · Compile KnowledgeBase · Expand KnowledgeBase

3.1.2.1

KnowledgeBase Info The "Edit KnowledgeBase Info" tool is used to fill in details about the loaded KnowledgeBase. Using the "Edit KnowledgeBase Info" tool you can do the following: · · · · · · · ·

Author: Name the Author of the KnowledgeBase Author Website: Provide a URL to the Author's website Copyright Info: Provide Copyright Information Licence Info: Provide information about how the KnowledgeBase is being released Rating Level: Set a KnowledgeBase Rating: Kids, General, Teens, Mature Audience, Unknown Additional Check boxes: Language, Violence, Sexual Content, Other Rating Description: provide any additional information on the rating you would like to include. Comment: Type any additional comments about the KnowledgeBase here.

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Editor

3.1.2.2

Merge KnowledgeBase Come together right now... over me. To merge to KnowledgeBases together, click the "Merge KnowledgeBase" link. The Merge KnowledgeBase dialog box.

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Verbot Technology Manual

When the dialog box first opens your current loaded KnowledgeBase is displayed. You may click any Rule in the "KnowledgeBase Rules" field to display its details in the "Rule Details" field. To merge another KnowledgeBase with the currently displayed KnowledgeBase click the "Merge KnowledgeBase" button. Select the KnowledgeBase you wish to merge with the currently displayed KnowledgeBase and click "Open"

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Verbot Editor

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Once you click "Open" the KnowledgeBase merge process will begin. It may take several minutes to process depending on the size of the KnowledgeBases. As the KnowledgeBases are processed Information will be printed to the "Information" field. While the KnowledgeBase is being processed the "Ok" button will be grayed out. However, you can cancel the process anytime by clicking the "Cancel" button. When the process is complete you can look over the changes or click the "Ok" button to except changes. You may also click "Cancel" to cancel all changes.

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Verbot Technology Manual

Look at all the pretty colors. As the KnowledgeBase loads information about the process is color coded and printed in the Information field. When the process is complete, Rules that have been changed in some form are also color coded. Each color means something different. Here is a brief overview of what the color coding means: · Green = The Rule that an Input existed in the original KnowledgeBase and the loaded KnowledgeBase. · Blue = The Rule did not exist in the original KnowledgeBase and was added from the loaded KnowledgeBase. · Red = Red text only appears in the Information box. Red text items are a result of duplicate Rule IDs being identified. All duplicate Rule IDs are regenerated automatically to avoid problems and require no manual manipulation.

© 2006 Conversive, Inc.

Verbot Editor

3.1.2.3

41

Print KnowledgeBase It's not a KnowledgeBase, it's a Novel! In some cases you may wish to view you're Verbot KnowledgeBase from beginning to end. The Print KnowledgeBase menu item allows you to print the entire KnowledgeBase out for review of Inputs and Outputs.

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Verbot Technology Manual

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Verbot Editor

3.1.2.4

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Synonyms The "Synonym" Tool opens the Synonym Editor used to create and Edit Synonym files. For information on Synonyms see: Synonyms For information on creating synonyms see: Creating Synonyms For information on using synonyms in your KnowledgeBase see: Using Synonyms

3.1.2.5

Replacement Profiles The "Replacement Profile" editor allows you to designate different text to be sent to the TTS verses the text displayed within the Verbot Output box.

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If for example you created a "Replacement Profile" that might be used in the United Kingdom - you might want to map the text "Television" to the word "Telly". With the "Replacement Profile" editor you can remap the word "Television" to send the word "Tell e" to the Verbot TTS Engine (spelling can be adjusted to allow the text to speech engine best represent the word.), and present the word "Telly" within the Verbot Output box. Below is an image of the "Replacement Profile" Editor which includes the example above as well as "smilies" remaped to Verbot Animations.

The image below is the result from asking the Verbot "do you watch Television?". Although the original Output contained the text "Television" instead of "Telly". The Replacement Profile above replaced "Television" with "Telly" in the Output box, and sent the text "Tell e" to the Verbot TTS engine.

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Code Modules

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Skin Editor The Verbot Skin Editor currently allows you to create skin files which can be loaded into the Verbot Player. Skins include information such as screen size, colors, and agent to use when the skin is loaded.

Agent to use Select the Agent you wish the Skin to utilize when it first loads. TTS Mode Select the TTS engine the Agent should use. Speed Use the slider bar to adjust the rate of speed in which the Agent speaks.

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Pitch Use the slider bar to adjust the pitch of the Agents voice. Restore Defaults Use the "Restore Defaults" button to restore the Speed and Pitch of the Agents voice to the default settings. Window Height You may select the height of the Verbot Player window in pixels. Window Width You may select the width of the Verbot Player window in pixels. Allow User to resize window By unchecking the check box disables the user from re-sizing the Verbot Player. Input Text Font You may select the font style and size for the Input box. Output Text Font You may select the font style and size for the Output box. Background Image Filename Use the background choose button to select an image file to use as a background (skin) for the Verbot Player. Image file formats include: bmp, png, gif, jpg, and jpeg

Input Text Color Use the Choose Color button to select the color you wish to use for the Verbot Player's Input text.

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Input Background Color Use the Choose Color button to select the color you wish to use for the Verbot Player's Input background.

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Background Color As an alternative to an image file you can simply select the background color you wish to use for the Verbot Player.

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Output Text Color Use the Choose Color button to select the color you wish to use for the Verbot Player's Output text.

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Output Background Color Use the Choose Color button to select the color you wish to use for the Verbot Player's Output background.

Agent Background Color As an alternative to an image file you can simply select the background color you wish to use for the Agent's background in the Verbot Player.

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Search Rules The "Search Rules" tool allows for you to search a KnowledgeBase for a text string. Using the check boxes on the Search Rules interface you can search specific areas of the KnowledgeBase. By default Rule Names, Rule Inputs, and Rule Outputs are checked. You can use the check boxes to select the area relevant to your search.

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Test KnowledgeBase "Test KnowledgeBase" allows you to test an open KnowledgeBase within the Verbot Scripting Interface. To use click on the "Tools" menu --> "Test KnowledgeBase" A popup window like the one below will open. Type your question in the Input box.

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Once you type in your question press the "Enter" key on your keyboard. Matches will be found and highlighted. If a rule has Variables, they will be displayed within the Variable field with their current value. This is useful for finding out what Variables are set to during runtime and what is being captured.

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You may click on any of the highlighted Compiled Inputs to load the Rule that fired into the Verbot Scripting Interface.

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3.1.2.10 Compile KnowledgeBase The "Compile KnowledgeBase" feature creates compiled KnowledgeBases which can in some cases speed up very large KnowledgeBase interactions. You'll usually never need to compile a KnowledgeBase unless you notice that the Verbot is responding slowly to queries. 3.1.2.11 Expand KnowledgeBase Expand KnowledgeBase creates a .vkb file based on a KnowledgeBase Template. Once a KnowledgeBase Template has been expanded it can be viewed and tweaked within the Verbot Scripting Interface. For more information on KnowledgeBase Templates see: Creating a KnowledgeBase Template

3.1.3

Help

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· Editor Introduction · Online Help · About 3.1.3.1

Editor Introduction The Editor Introduction is a short cut to the online help. New Verbot users are encouraged to click the link to learn more about scripting.

3.1.3.2

Online Help The "Online Help" links to the latest documentation. Currently updates are made daily.

3.1.3.3

Community Forum The "Community Forum" menu item links to the Verbot Community Forum. You may wish to join the forum access Verbot downloads such as additional KnowledgeBases and Characters. You'll also be able to interact with a large audience of Verbot users from around the world.

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About "About" is useful for displaying the version number and build number of the Verbot application in use.

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3.1.4

Resource Files Details

Learn more about the Resource Files Details panel: · Resource Files 3.1.4.1

Resource Files The "Resource Files" field displays the currently assigned resources. Currently supported resource file types are Synonym Files. The "Add" button allows you to add new resources, files to the currently loaded KnowledgeBase. The "Delete" button allows you to remove resources from the currently loaded KnowledgeBase. For information on creating synonyms see: Creating Synonyms For information on using synonyms in your KnowledgeBases see: Using Synonyms

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Rules

Learn more about the Rules panel: · Rule Names · New Rule · Rename Rule · New Child · Delete Rule 3.1.5.1

Rule Names The first step for creating a KnowledgeBase is creating a Rule. The "Rule Name" field is where you type in the name of the Rule you wish to create. The Rule name can be anything and is used only as an identifier. To create a new Rule, type in the name of the Rule you wish to create and Click the "New Rule" button. To create a Child Rule, select an existing Rule from the Rule tree field, type in a name for the Rule and click "New Child" To learn more about creating Rules see: Creating your First Rule

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3.1.5.2

New Rule The "New Rule" button is used to create a new Rule in the currently loaded KnowledgeBase.

3.1.5.3

Rename Rule The "Rename Rule" button is used to rename the selected Rule within the Rule tree.

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New Child Child Rules are used to create a hierarchy within Rules. Once a Primary Rule fires the Child Rule is eligible to fire. To create a Child Rule select a Rule within the Rule tree and click "New Child."

3.1.5.5

Delete Rule To delete a Rule select a Rule from the Rule tree and click "Delete Rule". The selected Rule will be deleted.

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Tutorials From start to finish you'll have fun learning! This Section is designed to get you up and running with the Verbot Scripting Interface. Verbot® 4.0 has been designed to allow anyone to script complex and engaging virtual personalities, even those without previous programming experience. With the Verbot Scripting Interface, you can create your own personalized KnowledgeBases, as well as scripting interactions with applications and character animations. The Verbot Editor Interface This section will introduce you to the Verbot Scripting Interface. Learn out about the features of the interface and where they are located. Creating your First Rule KnowledgeBases are made up of Rules. Rules consist of Inputs and Outputs. This section will walk you through creating your first Verbot® Rule, from there you're on your way to making fantastic KnowledgeBases of your own design! Creating Child Rules Learn how to create Child Rules, that allow the Verbot to follow a hierarchy based conversation. Using Virtual Child Rules Learn how to link Rules to other Rules using Virtual Child Rules. Creating Synonyms To aid you with creating Inputs with minimal repetition. Verbot® Synonym files can be created and added to any KnowledgeBase you create. This section will step you through making a synonym file. Using Synonyms The Creating Synonyms walked you through creating a powerful synonym file, This section will show you how to harness the power by stepping you through using synonyms within your Inputs. Variables Learn how to retain, and recall user based input with Variables. Variables with Alternate Text

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Learn how to display text when a Variable has not yet been set. Internal Variables Learn about built in Verbot Variables like displaying the time and date. MS Agent Tags Find out how to make your Verbot® smile, move about, and more! Verbot Tags Verbot Tags add functionality such as Read, Send, and Run. Special _Inputs Verbot® 4.0 has a few special inputs used for start up, and when the Verbot is left idle for an extended period of time. Running Applications Now that you know Verbots® can smile and move around. Give them something to do! This section guides you through opening applications and urls. Loading, Testing, and Talking Now that you have a custom KnowledgeBase, find out how to load it and test it. How to Compile a KnowledgeBase Learn how to Compile a KnowledgeBase to share with your family and friends. The Teaching.vkb KnowledgeBase Learn how the Teaching.vkb KnowledgeBase helps your Verbot learn dynamically. Advanced Features: Creating a CSV file Learn to create CSV files with your favorite spreadsheet software. Creating a KnowledgeBase Template Learn to create KnowledgeBase Templates that use data from a CSV file to create data driven KnowledgeBases. Expand or Compile Once you have a KnowledgeBase Template with associated CSV file ready to go, it's time to Compile it, Expand it, or you can do both. The following section describes the difference between Expanding and Compiling.

3.2.1

Creating Your First Rule Creating Rules in Verbot® 4.0 is quick and easy. Rules hold the knowledge of your Verbot®. A Rule is made up of Inputs and Outputs. An Input is used to match to what the user types. Once an Input finds a match the Output (or Response) is presented to the user. To create a Rule you must first give it a name. Start by typing in the Rule Name input box. We'll use"Hello World" for this example.

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Once you've typed "Hello World," click the "New Rule" button or simply press "Enter" to create a Primary Rule. Your screen should look like the following:

Adding an Input to your Rule Now that you've created a Rule. You'll need to add an input or two to make it available for your Verbot® to use. An Input can be made up of single or multiple words. For the purposes of this example, we simply want the Verbot® to respond to a user typing in "Hello" or "Hi". To create an Input click the "Add" button within the "Inputs Group".

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You'll notice that "Hello World" appears in the pop-up window and is highlighted. As a convenience, the Editor assumes your Rule name will be your first input. However for this example we want the Rule to fire on the input of "Hello" or "Hi". Change the text from "Hello World" to "Hello". And click "Ok" or press the "Enter" key.

Now that you've added "Hello," you may want to also add the Input "Hi". To add another Input, click the "Add" button within the "Inputs Group" and repeat the process as you did with "Hello". You can add as many inputs as desired. Now that you've finished adding your inputs, it's time to create an Output (also known as a Response).

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To create an Output click the "Add" button within the "Outputs Group". A pop-up box appears with two fields. The top field is used to hold the Verbot® Output. The lower field is used to hold extra commands (i.e. a command to run a program).

Enter "Hello World" within the top field and click the "Ok" button or press the "Enter" key. The Output has been added. You've now created your first Rule.

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At this point it's a good idea to save your KnowledgeBase. Click "File" --> "Save" on the menu. After you've saved your KnowledgeBase you can test your Rule two different ways. You can: 1. 2.

3.2.2

Load the Verbot Player then load your KnowledgeBase or Use "Test KnowledgeBase" from the "Tools" menu.

Creating Child Rules A Child Rule is designed to fire only after a Parent or Primary rule has previously fired. Looking at the window, the child rules"red" or "yellow" will never fire unless the "two colors" rule has fired immediately before.

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A primary rule can have as many Child Rules as you want. You may even choose to assign Child Rules to other Child Rules and can even have a conversation follow a hierarchy structure. Note: In order to keep the User on track, you may want to use Virtual Child Rules to insure the Verbot is getting the response desired. For more information on Rules see: Creating your First Rule For more information on Virtual Child Rules see: Using Virtual Child Rules

3.2.3

Using Virtual Child Rules Virtual Child Rules are used to link Rules to other Rules, virtually! The best way to understand how Virtual Child Rules work is through a tutorial to see them in action. Example 1: All I want from you is a straight answer! In the following example, you'll learn how to have the Verbot ask a question and receive one of three possible Inputs from the User. We'll start by creating a _startup Rule. A _startup is a special Input that the Verbot looks to fire when it is first loads.

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You can see that the _startup Rule has the Input "_startup" and the Output "Hi! Would you like to take a quick quiz?" Next, we'll make a few Child Rules. One for the Input "yes," one for "no," and one that will fire if there is no match.

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Output: Hi! Would you like to take a quick quiz? anything else Input: * Output: I'm sorry. I really need a "Yes" or "No" Answer. no Input: no Output: Okay no problem. yes Input: yes Output: Great. Let's get started! What is the name of the planet most people live on? Okay let's test it. Click on "Tools" --> "Test KnowledgeBase" The _startup Rule will fire and display: "Hi! Would you like to take a quick quiz?"

Now, if you were to type "yes" or "no," the appropriate Child Rule would fire. However, if you were to send the Input "maybe" - the only Child Rule that would match would be the Rule "anything else" using the Input "*" with the Output "I'm sorry. I really need a "Yes" or "No" Answer."

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The problem we would have if you answered the Verbot with "yes" or "no" after the "anything else" Rule has fired - is that there are no Child Rules for the "anything else" Rule. This is where Virtual Child Rules come in. Close the Verbot Script Tester window. Click on the Rule "anything else" to select them and then click on the "Virtual Child" button. The Rule Activation List window will pop up.

"Click" on the check box for the following Rules: "anything else", "no" and "yes".

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Once you've selected all three Rules click on "Ok". To test the Script open the "Verbot Script Tester" ("Tools" --> "Test KnowledgeBase") and test the KnowledgeBase again. Type in the Input "maybe". As before your Input of "maybe" fires the "anything else" Rule with the Output: "I'm sorry. I really need a "Yes" or "No" Answer." The Verbot will keep firing the "anything else" Rule until the Input of one of the Virtual Child Rules is received ("no" or "yes"). Once "no" or "yes" is received by the Verbot, it will look for another Child Rule. If a Child Rule is not found it will search through the Primary Rules.

3.2.4

Creating Synonyms The Synonym Editing Interface is used interchangeably to create groups of words which can be used as synonyms within Rule Inputs.

Creating Your First Synonym

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Type in the text you would like to use to describe your synonym. In this example we will call our synonym "What is". Once you type in "What is," click the "Add" button. The Synonym should look like the following screen shot:

Next, enter the synonyms words/phrases. In this example we'll add "What is" and then the contraction "What's".

Save your Synonyms Once you have added the desired amount of synonyms, click "File" --> "Save". After you have named and saved your synonym, you may click "File --> Close" to close off the Synonym Editor Window. That's it! You've created your first synonym file. For information on Synonyms see: Synonyms For information on using Synonyms see: Using Synonyms

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Using Synonyms First Things First... The Synonym Editing Interface allows you to create groups of words or phrases which can be interchanged within an Input. Before using Synonyms you should already be familiar with the Synonym Editing Interface, and have a synonym file saved. Using Synonyms within an Input When the Verbot Scripting Interface loads, it should look like the following screen shot. You'll notice the right side contains a group called "Resource Files". A Resource File is where you will load your previously created synonym file.

To add a Resource File: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Click the "Add Files" button Locate the Synonym file you created. The file should have the .vsn extension. Select the Synonym file and click the "Open" button on the dialog box Your synonym file should now be added to the Resource Files field. (see image below)

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Add a new Rule You should be familiar with creating Rules by now. If not, please review: Creating your First Rule. You should remember that your synonym file "what is" contains the synonyms "What is" and "What's." The name of the synonym is "What is". Before you can use the synonym, you'll need a rule. Below you'll see that a Rule entitled "What is a Verbot?" has been created.

Now that you have created a Rule, you need to add an Input. To use the synonym "What is" within the Input, you have to format it in a special way so that the Verbot Engine "knows" that a synonym exists for "What is". In order to use a synonym, you will need to write the synonym name--in this case, "what is"-- and enclose it in parenthesis. Here is an example. Click the "Add" button within the Inputs group. When the Input dialog box appears, type in the following Input: "(what is) a Verbot?", then click ok.

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As you can see, from the image above, the Output: "A verbal software robot." has been added. You now have one complete Rule ready to test. Make sure you save your KnowledgeBase by clicking "File --> Save." If this is your first time saving, you'll need to name the file. That's it! You're now ready to test your Rule. To see that it works properly, you should do some testing. To do so, click on "Tools"->"Test KnowledgeBase." You will notice that you get output if you type "What is a Verbot?" or "What's a Verbot?" and that is because you have a synonym that contains them both. Using Synonyms within an Output Much like using Synonyms within Inputs you can use Synonyms within Outputs. The Verbot will pick one of the phrases from that Synonym group and insert it in your output.

3.2.6

Running Applications You may have noticed when you were creating Outputs that there is a field labeled "Command". The "Command" field is used to open a web address in the user's default browser or to run an application. Below are a few examples using the "Command" field within the Output dialog box. To open a web address just type in the URL. For example: http://www.verbots.com

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To open a text file in Microsoft Notepad, type in the application name and file name to open. For example: notepad c:\docs\mytext.txt

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Loading, Testing And Talking! Oh my! By now, you should have a pretty good idea about creating Rules, Synonyms, and using Variables and Tags. Now that you have your completed KnowledgeBase, it's time to load it up and test it. Follow these quick easy steps to begin interacting with your own KnowledgeBase. 1. 2. 3.

Click on the Verbot 4.0 icon on your desktop (The Verbot will load with the last known configuration.) Once the Verbot has loaded, click on the menu item labeled "Tools --> Options." Click on the tab labeled "KnowledgeBases."

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4. 5. 6.

Click on the "Add" button and locate the KnowledgeBase you created. Once you have selected your KnowledgeBase, click "Open." Your KnowledgeBase should now be listed in the KnowledgeBase selection field.

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8. 9.

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Your KnowledgeBase will be added to the top of the list. The list order identifies what Rule will be evaluated first when two Rules match from each KnowledgeBase. In other words, if the engine finds matches for an Input in two different KnowledgeBases, it will fire the response from the KnowledgeBase that is at the top. Before clicking "Close," you may uncheck any KnowledgeBase you do not wish the Verbot to use. Once you've finished selecting KnowledgeBases, click "Close." The Verbot will load your selected KnowledgeBase(s). Now you should try testing the Rules you've created.

Note: That the above process reflects using the Verbot Player for final testing. You may also test during development of your Scripts using Test KnowledgeBase on the Verbot Scripting Interface menu.

3.2.8

How to Compile a KnowledgeBase Why Compile a KnowledgeBase? The main reason to compile a Verbot Knowledge base is to distribute your KnowledgeBase to family and friends who may have Verbot Standard Edition, but can still download the Free Verbot Player to interact with your creation. How to Compile a KnowledgeBase. Compiling a KnowledgeBase is simply a matter of loading a KnowledgeBase into the Verbot Scripting Editor, then from the top menu select "Tools-->Compile KnowledgeBase" The currently loaded KnowledgeBase will be compiled and saved with .ckb extension.

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Using the Teaching.vkb KnowledgeBase Who needs an Editor? The Teaching.vkb KnowledgeBase allows new Rules to be dynamically added while chatting with the Standard Player. You may want to open the Teaching.vkb KnowledgeBase to see how the Learning Rules have been setup. You may also want to tweak Inputs to your own preference using the um... the Editor :) Note: This feature can only be used if you own Verbot Standard Edition and is not supported by the Free Verbot Player.

How to use the Teaching.vkb To teach the Verbot while chatting with the Standard Edition Player do the following: Make sure that the Verbot Standard Edition player has the required KnowledgeBases loaded and selected. Teacher.vkb and LearnedKnowledge.vkb should be loaded and checked. Note: Wondering what the difference between a .vkb file and a .ckb file is? Click here to find out.

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To teach the Verbot something new type into the Input box on the Verbot Player and press "Enter". For example type in: What is a gizmo?

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The Verbot will respond with something along the lines of "I don't know" or some other response depending on the KnowledgeBases you have loaded. Type in: remember a Gizmo is a special device. Then press the "Enter" key.

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Julia will say something along the lines of: I'll be sure to remember that. To test her type in: What is a gizmo? Press the "Enter" key.

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Julia will now respond with: A Gizmo is a special device Note: This is a new feature and we will be adding and tweaking the Teacher.vkb KnowledgeBase in coming updates. You may also want to create your own learning Rules using the Verbot Scripting Editor.

The Teacher.vkb contains various sample learning Rules that you can use to dynamically add Rules while interacting with the Verbot. You may also add your own learning Rules to capture different kinds of Inputs. Note: When editing the default Teacher.vkb file, you may have to compile it to a .ckb file in order to interact with your changes in the Verbot Player.

To find out more about the learning tags used in the Teacking.vkb see: Tags and Inputs section.

3.2.10 Verbot Editor Embed Code Simply write your C# within a tag, and it'll be executed when the rule fires. Eample:

This will write the string "Hello world!" to the output itself.

3.2.11 Verbot Editor Conditionals Many advanced Verbot capabilities can be achieved with the use of input and output conditionals. Each Input and Output that you write can have a little snippet of C# that is evaluated before that Input

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or Output is used. If the code evaluates to true, then then it can be used. If it's false, then the Input or Output are ignored. One may also use the conditionals box in the input and output windows like so: vars["fruit"] == "apple"

By putting this in a conditionals text field, it will only allow the output if this condition is true. So in this case: Output: An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Condition: vars["fruit"] == "apple"

vars[] is necessary. The name of your variable is always in quotes. So if one has "I eat an [fruit] everyday" as an input, it will always be referenced in the conditions as vars["fruit"]. Contributed to Verbot Wiki by Randal

3.3

Advanced Features The Verbot 4.0 Standard Edition includes advanced features which aid in the development of Verbot KnowledgeBases. Use the links below to jump to areas of interest. KnowledgeBase and CSV Files · Creating a CSV File · Creating a KnowledgeBase Template · Expand or Compile

3.4

Variables My name is [username], do you remember me? Variables help the Verbot remember things about you. Some variables can even be setup to remember things like phone numbers, family members and more. The easiest way to understand Variables is by looking at an example. Let's start by learning how a Verbot remembers your name. Understanding What Variables do. When a user first speaks with a Verbot, the Verbot doesn't know the user's name. For example, if you asked the Verbot "What is my name?" it would most likely respond with "Your name is Friend." However, if you told the Verbot "My name is Mary" the Verbot would respond with "It's nice to meet you Mary." The Verbot now knows that your name is Mary. If you were to ask "What is my name?" the Verbot would now respond "Your name is Mary." What is my name? Let's look at a sample response in which the Verbot does not know your name. "What is my name" Rule first - so we can see how the Verbot responds with "Friend" if it doesn't know your name. Rule Name: What is my name Input: (what is) my name Output: Your name is [name:Friend].

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Note: (what is)
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