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Onshape MCP Server

by hedless

align_instance_to_face

Align a source instance flush against a face of a target instance in an Onshape assembly. Only moves the perpendicular axis; other axes remain unchanged.

Instructions

Position source instance flush against a face of target instance. Faces: front (min Y), back (max Y), left (min X), right (max X), bottom (min Z), top (max Z). Only moves the perpendicular axis; other axes stay unchanged.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
faceYesFace of target to align source against
elementIdYesAssembly element ID
documentIdYesDocument ID
workspaceIdYesWorkspace ID
sourceInstanceIdYesInstance ID to move
targetInstanceIdYesInstance ID to align against
Behavior4/5

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

Given no annotations, the description provides good behavioral insight: 'Only moves the perpendicular axis; other axes stay unchanged.' This explains the specific movement behavior without requiring annotations.

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?

Two sentences that efficiently convey the core function and constraints. No superfluous words, and the most important information is front-loaded.

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?

For a tool with 6 required parameters and no output schema, the description sufficiently explains the behavior and scope. It covers the key constraint (only perpendicular axis changes) without needing further elaboration.

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 coverage is 100%, so the baseline is 3. The description adds some value by clarifying that face values correspond to axes (e.g., front = min Y), but this is largely redundant with the enum schema. No extra explanation for other parameters.

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 'Position source instance flush against a face of target instance' with a specific verb and resource. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools like set_instance_position or transform_instance by focusing on flush alignment to a face.

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

Usage Guidelines3/5

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

The description implies when to use this tool (when aligning to a face), but it does not explicitly state when not to use it or mention alternative tools. No exclusions or context for selection are provided.

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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