NoS: Minimal AI instrument

This document defines the non-negotiable constraints for a minimal AI instrument.

The model is a component. The instrument is the system.

Operating regime is mandatory#

Every session and every turn MUST be bound to a declared regime.

Default regime (if not explicitly declared):

rtt=1 | coherence=declared | drift=bounded | paradox=structural

Lineage is mandatory#

Every output MUST be reproducible from:

• inputs
• retrieval scope and hits
• prompt assembly inputs
• model artifact identity
• inference parameters
• post-processing rules

No output is “just generated.” All outputs are lineage products.

Modes are explicit#

The instrument MUST NOT silently switch modes.

At minimum, the following MUST be explicit per turn:

• retrieval scope (none/local/session/prior_sessions/web)
• tool usage (on/off, which tool)
• creativity / exploration allowance (drift bounds)
• determinism intent (seeded vs unseeded)

Drift is bounded#

Exploration is allowed only when declared.

If drift is bounded:

• the response MUST remain within the task envelope
• speculative branches MUST be labeled as such
• the system MUST be able to “snap back” without losing lineage

Paradox is structural#

Contradictions are not treated as failure by default.

When paradox is structural:

• contradictions become tracked objects in the ledger
• resolution attempts are optional and declared
• the system may present multiple consistent frames without collapsing them

Minimal UI principle#

Minimal UI does not mean minimal capability.

The UI MUST expose:

• regime line
• retrieval scope
• lineage indicator (ledger present / exportable)

Everything else may be layered behind explicit toggles.