Table of Contents
Foreword 0Part I Introduction
4
... 4 1 Overview ... 5 2 System RequirementsPart II Verbot Player
6
... 7 1 Verbot Player Interface
... 8 File ... 8 Load KnowledgeBase ... 8 Reload KnowledgeBase ... 9 Load Text File
... 9 Read Clipboard
... 9 Auto Read Clipboard
... 9 Stop Agent ... 9 Exit ... 10 Edit ... 11 Options ... 11 KnowledgeBases Tab ... 13 Agent Tab ... 14 Timers Tab ... 15 Security Tab ... 17 Parental Controls ... 19 Verbots Player Tab Registration
... 20 View ... 23 Download ... 23 Agents ... 23 KnowledgeBases ... 23 Voices ... 24 Help ... 24 Online Help ... 24 Community Forum ... 24 About ... 25 Right Clicks ... 26 2 Loading KnowledgeBases ... 29 3 Using Microsoft Agent
Part III Verbot Editor
31
... 32 1 Verbot Editor Interface
... 34 File ... 35 New ... 35 Open ... 35 Recent Files ... 35 Save ... 35 Save As ... 35 Exit ... 35 Tools I Contents © 2006 Conversive, Inc.
... 36 KnowledgeBase Info ... 37 Merge KnowledgeBase ... 41 Print KnowledgeBase ... 43 Synonyms ... 43 Replacement Profiles ... 45 Code Modules ... 46 Skin Editor ... 52 Search Rules ... 53 Test KnowledgeBase ... 56 Compile KnowledgeBase ... 56 Expand KnowledgeBase ... 56 Help ... 57 Editor Introduction ... 57 Online Help ... 57 Community Forum ... 58 About ... 59 Resource Files Details
... 59 Resource Files ... 60 Rules ... 60 Rule Names ... 61 New Rule ... 61 Rename Rule ... 62 New Child ... 62 Delete Rule ... 63 2 Tutorials ... 64 Creating Your First Rule
... 68 Creating Child Rules
... 69 Using Virtual Child Rules
... 73 Creating Synonyms ... 75 Using Synonyms ... 77 Running Applications ... 79 Loading, Testing And Talking! Oh my!
... 81 How to Compile a KnowledgeBase
... 82 Using the Teaching.vkb KnowledgeBase
... 86 Verbot Editor Embed Code
... 86 Verbot Editor Conditionals
... 87 3 Advanced Features ... 87 4 Variables ... 91 Internal Variables ... 93 Variables with Alternate Text
... 93 5 Command Line Options
... 93 6 KnowledgeBase Templates and CSV Files
... 94 Creating a CSV File
... 97 Creating a KnowledgeBase Template
... 98 Expand or Compile
... 100 7 Tags and Inputs
... 100 MS Agent Tags ... 101 Special_Inputs ... 102 _startup ... 102 _bored ... 102 _blank ... 102 Verbot Tags
Verbot Technology Manual II
... 102 agent.load ... 103 exit ... 103 learn ... 105 load ... 105 mem.get ... 106 mem.set ... 106 quit ... 106 read ... 107 readprint ... 107 run ... 107 send
Part IV Verbots Online
107
Part V Glossary
107
... 108 1 Child Rule
... 110 2 Comma Seperated Value Files (csv)
... 110 3 Compiled KnowledgeBase Files (ckb)
... 110 4 Expand ... 111 5 Input ... 114 6 KnowledgeBase ... 114 7 KnowledgeBase Template ... 115 8 Output ... 115 9 Primary Rule ... 115 10 Rule ... 116 11 Synonym ... 117 12 Synonym Output ... 118 13 Verbot ... 118 14 Virtual Child Rule
... 118 15 Verbot KnowledgeBase Files (vkb)
Part VI Manual Changes History
118
Index
119
III Contents
Verbot Technology Manual 4
1
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.
Introduction 5
· 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:
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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)
2
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.
Verbot Player 7
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.
Verbot Technology Manual 8
2.1.1
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.
Verbot Player 9
2.1.1.3 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.
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2.1.2
Edit
Learn about the Edit menu items:
· Options
KnowledgeBase Tab Agent Tab
Timers Tab Security Tab
Parental Controls Tab Registration Tab
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2.1.2.1 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
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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:
Verbot Player 13
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"
Verbot Technology Manual 14
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).
Verbot Player 15
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.
Verbot Technology Manual 16
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".
Verbot Player 17
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.
Verbot Technology Manual 18
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".
Verbot Player 19
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 Technology Manual 20
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).
Verbot Player 21
Normal Window
Verbot Technology Manual 22
Small Window
In this mode, only the face and Input box are displayed.
Face Only
Verbot Player 23
2.1.3
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.
Verbot Technology Manual 24
2.1.4
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.
Verbot Player 25
2.1.5
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 "right-clicking" on the Verbot Player to access this "Stop Agent" option.
Verbot Technology Manual 26
2.2
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!
Verbot Player 27
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.
Verbot Technology Manual 28
Download KnowledgeBases
Verbot Player 29
2.3
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.
Verbot Technology Manual 30
If you wish to download more characters, you may do so by clicking "Download"-->"Agents" to visit the Verbot.com download area.
Verbot Editor 31
3
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.
Verbot Technology Manual 32
3.1
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
Verbot Editor 33 · 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
Verbot Technology Manual 34
3.1.1
File
Learn more about the File menu items:
· New
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.
Verbot Technology Manual 36 · 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.
Verbot Editor 37
Verbot Technology Manual 38
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"
Verbot Editor 39
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.
Verbot Technology Manual 40
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.
Verbot Editor 41
3.1.2.3 Print KnowledgeBase
It's not a KnowledgeBase, it's a Novel!
Verbot Technology Manual 42
Verbot Technology Manual 44
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.
Verbot Editor 45
Verbot Technology Manual 46
3.1.2.7 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
Verbot Editor 47
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.
Verbot Technology Manual 48
Input Background Color
Use the Choose Color button to select the color you wish to use for the Verbot Player's Input background.
Verbot Editor 49
Background Color
As an alternative to an image file you can simply select the background color you wish to use for the Verbot Player.
Verbot Technology Manual 50
Output Text Color
Verbot Editor 51
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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3.1.2.8 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
Verbot Editor 53
3.1.2.9 Test KnowledgeBase
"Test KnowledgeBase" allows you to test an open KnowledgeBase within the Verbot Scripting Interface.
Verbot Technology Manual 54
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
Verbot Editor 57
· 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
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3.1.3.4 About
Verbot Editor 59
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.
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3.1.5
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"
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3.1.5.2 New Rule
Verbot Technology Manual 62
3.1.5.4 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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3.2
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
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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".
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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.
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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. Load the Verbot Player then load your KnowledgeBase or
2. Use "Test KnowledgeBase" from the "Tools" menu.
3.2.2
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.
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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.
As you can see above the _startup Rule now has three Child Rules. Here is what each Rule contains so far:
_startup Input: _startup
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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"
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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.
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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.
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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
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3.2.5
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. Click the "Add Files" button
2. Locate the Synonym file you created. The file should have the .vsn extension. 3. Select the Synonym file and click the "Open" button on the dialog box
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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.
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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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3.2.7
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.
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4. Click on the "Add" button and locate the KnowledgeBase you created. 5. Once you have selected your KnowledgeBase, click "Open."
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7. 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.
8. Before clicking "Close," you may uncheck any KnowledgeBase you do not wish the Verbot to use. Once you've finished selecting KnowledgeBases, click "Close."
9. 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.
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3.2.9
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.
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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.
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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?
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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 <?csharp ... ?> tag, and it'll be executed when the rule fires. Eample:
<?csharp Console.Write("Hello world!"); ?>
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.
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Note: (what is) <-- is a Synonym. Click Here to find out more about Synonyms
You might have noticed that before you tell the Verbot your name, it call you "Friend". The Verbot uses "Friend" because the Variable "name" is not set.
The following example shows a Variable with the default setting of "Friend". You can of course replace "Friend" with anything you like (or not use an alternate at all, which would return nothing).
Example:
Your name is [name:Friend].
My name is [name]
We now know that if a variable is not set it will use alternate text if available, but how do we set the Variable? It's actually rather simple. Let's look at the Rule "My name is [name]."
Rule Name: My name is [name] Input: My name is [name]. Output: Good to meet you [name]!
The Variable "[name]" that is found within the Input "My name is [name]," tells the Verbot to record whatever text the user types in the place of "[name]."
The [name] within the Output simply prints out the text that was captured in the Input. Having the Verbot repeat back what it has captured not only makes the conversation with the Verbot more realistic, but it also makes it more personal.
For example, if you type "My name is Mary." the Verbot will respond "Good to meet you Mary!" and the Variable [name] is stored with the value of "Mary." From that moment on, whenever the Verbot finds the variable [name], it will display "Mary" in the output.
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Variables in Variables: "Joe's phone number is 555-5555"
There are times when you want to save information, such as recording your friend's telephone numbers. To do this, you need to use Variables inside other variables.
Saving Joe's Number, and Jenny's, and John's, and Juan's too!
In the Rules above, you learned how to save a single name (Mary) to a single Variable ([name]). However, to save multiple phone numbers we'll need multiple Variables. How do you that with a single Rule? Let's find out.
Rule Name: Save Phone Number
Input: [contactname]'s phone number is [[contactname]s_phone].
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Note that is you typed in the same sentence using a different friend' information, you would get another unique variable. For example, if you typed in "Jenny's phone number is 555-8888." The Variables would be as follows:
contactname = "Jenny" jennys_phone="555-8888"
Notice that contactname is always set to the last Input (Jenny) but a unique variable is created (jennys_phone).
Retrieving the Variable: "What is Joe's phone number?"
Using the example above - we have two Variables available: joes_phone and jennys_phone. To access the Variables we create the following Rule:
Rule Name: Get Phone Number
Input: What is [contactname]'s phone number?
Output: [contactname]'s phone number is [[contactname]s_phone].
That's it. Now to access Jenny's number you would type "What is Jenny's phone number?" Note: It would be a good idea to add other inputs so that it'll match to phrases such as "give me Jenny's number" or simply "Jenny's number."
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3.4.1
Internal Variables
Internal Variables.
Assuming you've read the Variables section, you already know that Variables are used to capture information from within an Input as well as display that captured information later. Internal Variables are built in functions which can be used to prevent information within a response.
[_time] [_time24]
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Tag: (Used within Verbot Output) Output Format: Example Output: Example
Verbot Output:
[_time] h:mm tt The time is [_time] "The time is 4:20 PM" [_time24] HH:mm Wake up soldier it's [_time24] "Wake up
soldier it's 16:20" [_date] MMM. d, yyyy Today is [_date] "Today is
Jan. 3, 2010" [_month] MMMM Another beautiful [_month] "Another
beautiful January" [_dayofmonth] d Today is day [_dayofmonth] "Today is
day 3" [_year] yyyy The year is [_year] "The year is
2010" [_dayofweek] dddd Today is [_dayofweek] "Today is
Saturday"
What did I say? You said [_input]!
[_input]
Prints last User Input within the Verbot response. This tag can also be used to save User Input to other variables.
Ex.
Rule Name: What did I say? Input: What did I say? Output: You said: [_input] Sample Conversation
User Input: "What did I say?"
Verbot Output: "You said: What did I say?"
What did I say? You said [_lastinput].
[_lastinput]
Prints User's last input before the current input. Ex.
Rule Name: What did I say? Input: What did I say?
Output: You said: [_lastinput] Sample Conversation
User Input: "How old are you?"
Verbot Output: "I'm 5 years old."
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Verbot Output: "You said: How old are you?"
What did you say? I said [_lastoutput]!
[_lastoutput]
Prints last Verbot response. Ex.
Rule Name: What did you say? Input: What did you say? Output: I said: [_lastoutput] Sample Conversation
User Input: "How old are you?"
Verbot Output: "I'm 5 years old."
User Input: "What did you say?"
Verbot Output: "I said: I'm 5 years old."
3.4.2
Variables with Alternate Text
I'm sorry I didn't catch that? (Alternate Text Variable)
The Alternate Text Variable allows you assign alternate text in case a variable has not yet been defined.
[name:alternate text] Example:
Rule Name: What is my name? Input: What is my name?
Output: As far as I know, your name is [name:Friend].
In the example above if the User asks "What is my name?", the Verbot will respond in one of two ways depending on if the Variable name is set.
If the Variable name has been set, the Verbot will respond with the set Variable. For example if name was previously set to "John", the Verbot will respond with "As far as I know, your name is John"
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Interface. Using the data from the CSV and Template Rules, a new KnowledgeBase can be created which include the CSV data which can then be accessed through conversational interactions with the Verbot.
The following sections cover the creation of KnowledgeBase Templates and CSV files:
· Creating a CSV file
· Creating a KnowledgeBase Template
· Expanding or Compiling
3.6.1
Creating a CSV File
What is a CSV file?
CSV also known as Comma Separated Value files are a standard export format for many applications, most notably is Microsoft Excel. Use the CSV format you can create data driven KnowledgeBase by entering your data by way of a spreadsheet program such as Excel or Open Office Spreadsheet. Using KnowledgeBase Template Rules you can access CSV data by Compiling or Expanding the
KnowledgeBase Template.
Note: If you don't have Microsoft Excel you may want to download Open Office which includes a spreadsheet application. Adding Data.
This section assumes you have Microsoft Excel. If you haven't done so already, open a blank Excel spreadsheet.
The first row is considered a heading. For this example you are going to make a Verbot phone book. So in row 1 column A enter "Name". Then in row 1 column B enter "Number". Your spreadsheet should look like the following:
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Now that the spreadsheet has headings you can begin entering names and numbers for your friends and family. Your spreadsheet should end up looking something like this:
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>"Save As"
The following dialog box should appear. Click on the "Save as type" drop down and locate the file type: "CSV (Comma delimited)" format. Type in phone_book for the name of the file, and click the "Save" button.
Once your you've saved the file it's time to move on to the next section
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3.6.2
Creating a KnowledgeBase Template
What is a KnowledgeBase Template?
A KnowledgeBase Template is used to create data driven KnowledgeBases. The first step is to
create a CSV file which contains the data you wish to access. Then create Template Rules to access the data.
What is a KnowledgeBase Template Rule?
A Template Rule is a Rule that has been setup to use CSV data to created new Rules. The new Rules are created when you click "Expand" or when the KnowledgeBase is compiled using "Compile
KnowledgeBase" The following section assumes you completed the Creating a CSV file section and are ready to create a KnowledgeBase Template.
Creating a KnowledgeBase Template.
To begin creating a KnowledgeBase Template, open the Verbot Scripting Editor. Once the Verbot Scripting Editor is loaded it's time to make your first Template Rule. If you're not familiar with Rule creation you may want to review the Creating your First Rule section.
Create a new Rule using the following information: Rule Name: Get Phone Number
Input: What is #Name's phone number? Output: #Name's phone number is #Number. You're screen should appear as shown below:
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Locate the phone_book.cvs file you created in the Creating a CSV file section and click "Open" to add it to the Resource Files Details field.
Note: Multiple CSV files can be used within one KnowledgeBase.
At this point it's a good idea to save your KnowledgeBase.
Now that you have a Template Rule and a loaded CSV file it's time to Expand or Compile the KnowledgeBase.
3.6.3
Expand or Compile
Expanding or Compiling
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 information describes the difference between
Expanding and Compiling.
Why should a KnowledgeBase be Expanded?
When a KnowledgeBase Template is Expanded a new .vkb file is created based on the
KnowledgeBase Template Rules and the loaded CSV file. Once the KnowledgeBase is Expanded and the new .vkb file is created, the new .vkb file can be loaded within the Verbot Scripting Editor for tweaking or to view the results.
How to Expand a KnowledgeBase Template
Why should a KnowledgeBase be Compiled?
Compiling a KnowledgeBase Template creates a new .ckb file which created based on the
KnowledgeBase Template Rules and the loaded CSV file. Once the KnowledgeBase is compiled a new .vkb file is created which can be loaded into the Free Verbot Player or the Verbot Standard Edition Player for testing or use. It is important to note that the Free Verbot Player can only load Compiled KnowledgeBases (.ckb). To share your KnowledgeBase with friends you'll need to provide them with this link to the Free Verbot Player and supply them with your KnowledgeBase Compiled (.ckb).
How to Compile a KnowledgeBase Template
How to Expand a KnowledgeBase Template
To Expand a KnowledgeBase Template you can click on the Expand icon or click "Tools"-->"Expand Templates" on the menu.
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Once you have clicked the "Expand", a dialog box will pop-up. Give the KnowledgeBase Template a new name. For example: phone_book_expanded.
Click the save button to begin the Expand process. Depending on the size of the CSV file and the amount of Template Rules it may be several seconds to Expand the KnowledgeBase Template. Once the Template is expanded you may load the resulting .vkb file into the Verbot Scripting Interface to see the results and tweak if needed.
How to Compile a KnowledgeBase Template
To compile a KnowledgeBase Template click on the Compile icon or click "Tools"-->"Compile KnowledgeBase" on the menu.
