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estimate_print_time

Estimate print time and filament usage from a 3D model or existing G-code, slicing new models or parsing pre-sliced files for time, length, weight, and layers.

Instructions

Estimate print time and filament usage for a model.

        Slices the model and parses the G-code for print time, filament
        length/weight, and layer count.

        For **already-sliced** G-code files, pass the ``.gcode`` path
        directly — it will be parsed without re-slicing.

        Weight needs a filament density, which lives on a filament
        profile; Kiln's bundled profiles describe a PRINTER and name no
        filament, so pass ``material`` to get a weight.  Without it the
        weight is reported as absent rather than guessed — a key missing
        from the result means the slicer could not answer it, never that
        the answer is zero.

        **See also:** ``estimate_material_cost`` for weight and cost from
        a mesh with your own price per kg, and ``slice_and_estimate`` for
        a fuller analysis with printability scoring.

        :param file_path: Path to STL/3MF/OBJ or .gcode file.
        :param profile: Optional slicer profile path.
        :param printer_id: Optional printer model ID for bundled profile
            (e.g. ``"bambu_a1"``).  Used when no explicit profile is given.
        :param slicer_path: Optional explicit slicer binary path.
        :param material: Optional filament family (``"PLA"``, ``"PETG"``,
            …) used only as a density source for the weight.
        :returns: Dict with time, filament, and layer estimates.
        

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
profileNo
materialNo
file_pathYes
printer_idNo
slicer_pathNo
Install Server

TDQS

A4.5/5.0
Behavior4/5

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It discloses that weight requires a material density from a filament profile, that bundled profiles lack filament names, and that a missing key means the slicer could not answer rather than zero. This is valuable behavioral context beyond the schema. It doesn't mention side effects or permissions, but for a read-only estimation tool this is adequate.

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

Conciseness4/5

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

The description is well-structured with clear sections, bolded key terms, and a See also pointer. It's a bit long but every sentence adds value—no fluff. The param list is compact and informative.

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 the tool's complexity (5 params, no output schema, no annotations), the description covers the key behaviors: slicing vs parsing, material density caveat, and return value semantics. It doesn't describe the exact return structure, but the description says 'Dict with time, filament, and layer estimates' which is sufficient for an agent. It could mention error cases, but overall it's complete enough.

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

Parameters4/5

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

Schema description coverage is 0%, so the description must compensate. It explains each parameter: file_path accepts STL/3MF/OBJ or .gcode, profile is optional slicer profile path, printer_id is for bundled profiles with an example, slicer_path is explicit binary path, and material is used only as density source. This adds meaning beyond the bare schema.

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 clearly states the tool estimates print time and filament usage by slicing a model and parsing G-code. It distinguishes itself from siblings like estimate_material_cost and slice_and_estimate by explicitly naming them and noting the difference in scope.

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

Usage Guidelines5/5

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

The description provides explicit guidance on when to use this tool vs alternatives: it mentions passing .gcode files directly for already-sliced files, and points to estimate_material_cost for weight/cost from a mesh and slice_and_estimate for fuller analysis with printability scoring. This is clear when/when-not guidance.

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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