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Create test pattern

create_test_pattern

Generate a projector calibration source with configurable test patterns (grid, crosshair, color bars, ramp, circle grid) and optional overlay labels for alignment or mapping calibration.

Instructions

Generate a projector calibration / alignment source — a standalone test-pattern network that every media server ships and tdmcp was missing. Builds a baseCOMP containing a GLSL TOP with a baked-in static pattern (grid, crosshair, SMPTE-ish color bars, horizontal ramp, or circle-grid), optional text/number overlay (for per-projector ID), and a Null TOP as the stable output handle. The shader is generated per pattern and baked into the payload — no custom uniforms or live bindings needed. Use the output as a routing source during projector alignment, LED mapping calibration, or camera registration. Pattern, resolution, divisions, overlay number/label, and colours are all configurable.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
nameNoBase name for the container COMP that wraps the pattern network.test_pattern
labelNoOptional extra caption text overlaid bottom-right (e.g. 'LEFT', 'CAM 2'). Empty = none.
widthNoOutput width in pixels (must be > 0; e.g. 1920, 2560, 3840).
heightNoOutput height in pixels (must be > 0; e.g. 1080, 1440, 2160).
patternNoPattern type: grid = even line grid; crosshair = centred cross + corner marks; color_bars = vertical SMPTE-ish colour columns; ramp = smooth horizontal grey ramp; circle_grid = repeated concentric ring tiles.grid
bg_colorNoBackground colour as [R, G, B] in 0–1 range. Default is black [0, 0, 0].
divisionsNoNumber of grid cells across the frame for grid and circle_grid patterns (must be >= 1). Ignored by other patterns.
line_colorNoPattern line colour as [R, G, B] in 0–1 range. Default is green [0, 1, 0].
parent_pathNoParent COMP path to build inside (e.g. '/project1'). The container is created here./project1
output_numberNoProjector / output ID drawn as a large label in the lower-right corner (must be >= 0). 0 = no number.
Behavior4/5

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

Annotations already mark the tool as non-read-only and non-destructive. The description adds meaningful behavioral context by explaining that it builds a baseCOMP with a GLSL TOP and Null TOP, and that the shader is baked per pattern with no live bindings or custom uniforms required. This goes beyond simple create/build phrasing, though it doesn't discuss overwrite or side-effect behavior in detail.

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 front-loaded with purpose and uses four sentences to cover behavior, patterns, use cases, and configurability. Some filler such as 'every media server ships and tdmcp was missing' is not strictly necessary but does not undermine clarity.

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 10-parameter creation tool with no output schema, the description adequately conveys the built network's structure, the configurable pattern types, and the intended application contexts. It does not explain every parameter, but those are fully documented in the schema, and the high-level behavior is sufficiently complete.

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 the schema carries full parameter details. The description adds only a general statement that pattern, resolution, divisions, overlay number/label, and colours are configurable, which restates what the schema already provides without deeper semantic value.

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

Purpose4/5

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

Description names a specific verb ('Generate') and resource ('standalone test-pattern network') for projector calibration/alignment, and enumerates pattern types and output structure. It distinguishes itself from generic shader creation by emphasizing baked-in static patterns and a Null TOP output handle, though it does not explicitly name sibling alternatives like projector_calibration_wizard.

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?

Clear usage context is provided: 'Use the output as a routing source during projector alignment, LED mapping calibration, or camera registration.' This tells the agent when to invoke the tool, but it stops short of explicit exclusions or named alternatives, so it misses the top score.

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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