ChatInput

The Chat Input component collects messages and files from users, launching the workflow in FlowHunt.

ChatInput

Component description

How the ChatInput component works

Chat Input Component

The Chat Input component is designed to facilitate the intake of user messages within an AI workflow. It acts as an entry point where users or external systems can provide text-based input, which is then processed by subsequent components in the workflow.

What Does This Component Do?

This component is primarily responsible for capturing chat messages or user input from the Playground interface. It’s ideal for scenarios where human or application input is needed to trigger or direct the flow of your AI processes.

Inputs

NameTypeDescriptionRequiredDisplay NameNotes
input_valueMessageMessage to be passed as input.NoTextHidden from UI, supports text input
  • Input Details:
    • Accepts a Message type input, typically a text string.
    • Not required to be filled out by default; can be left empty.
    • The input is traced both as input and as metadata, supporting better tracking and debugging of workflow runs.

Outputs

The component produces two possible outputs that can be connected to other components:

Output NameTypeDescription
messageMessageThe user message itself.
file_inputFlowSessionAttachmentResponseFile uploaded with the chat input, if any.
  • Message: The primary output, representing the chat text submitted by the user.
  • File: Supports file attachments, providing a response if the user uploads a file alongside their message.

Why Is This Component Useful?

  • User Interaction: It enables interactive workflows by receiving live input from users, making it possible to create conversational bots, virtual assistants, or data intake forms.
  • Flexibility: Since it handles both text and file inputs, you can design flows that process not just messages but also handle document uploads or attachments.
  • Integration Point: Acts as the gateway for human-in-the-loop processes where manual input or validation is required before proceeding to automated steps.

Typical Use Cases

  • Chatbots: Collect user questions or commands to be processed by language models.
  • Customer Support: Intake user queries and attachments (like screenshots or documents) for support ticketing systems.
  • Data Collection: Gather structured or unstructured input from end-users in various AI-driven applications.

Summary Table

PropertyValue
Display NameChat Input
Version1.0.1
OutputsMessage, File
Input TypeMessage (Text)
AttachmentSupports file input
Typical RoleWorkflow entry point for user input

This component is a foundational building block for workflows that require real-time or user-driven data, providing both textual and file input capabilities to downstream AI processes.

Examples of flow templates using ChatInput component

To help you get started quickly, we have prepared several example flow templates that demonstrate how to use the ChatInput component effectively. These templates showcase different use cases and best practices, making it easier for you to understand and implement the component in your own projects.

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Frequently asked questions

What does the Chat Input component do?

The Chat Input component collects user messages and files in the Playground, providing the initial input for your AI workflow.

Can I use Chat Input for both text and files?

Yes, Chat Input supports both text messages and file attachments, allowing for flexible user interactions.

Is Chat Input required in every flow?

It’s typically the first component in chatbot flows, as it initiates the entire interaction process.

Does Chat Input process the message content?

No, Chat Input only collects the input; further processing is handled by subsequent components in the workflow.

Try FlowHunt Chat Input

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