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TD Render (live)

td_render

Render the current frame of a TOP in a running TouchDesigner instance and return the image for visual verification after network edits.

Instructions

Render the current frame of a TOP in a running TouchDesigner instance and return the image so the assistant can see the result (live control via the td_mcp bridge). Uses the documented TOP.saveByteArray() call. Use this after building/editing a network to visually verify the output.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
pathYesFull path of the TOP to render, e.g. '/td_mcp/sandbox/comp1'.
filetypeNoImage container filetype passed to saveByteArray (default '.png'). Common values: '.png', '.jpg', '.bmp', '.tiff', '.exr'.
Behavior4/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden. It discloses the live control aspect and the underlying call (TOP.saveByteArray()). It does not contradict any annotations, but could detail side effects or performance implications.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is extremely concise, using two sentences to convey purpose, use case, and implementation detail without superfluous content. The structure appropriately front-loads the primary action.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness4/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given no output schema, the description states it returns an image for the assistant to see. It lacks specifics on return format (e.g., base64 versus file path), but is sufficient for an agent to understand the tool's role in the workflow.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema description coverage is 100%, so baseline is 3. The description adds marginal value by mentioning 'current frame' and the underlying call, but does not provide additional semantic detail beyond the schema's parameter descriptions.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description explicitly states the action ('Render the current frame of a TOP') and the resource ('TOP'), with the outcome ('return the image so the assistant can see the result'). This clearly differentiates it from sibling tools like td_run_python or td_sample.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines4/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description advises using the tool 'after building/editing a network to visually verify the output.' This provides clear context for when to use it, though it does not explicitly state when not to use it or mention alternative tools.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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