List available appearance names from a Fusion 360 model, with an optional substring filter to quickly find specific materials or finishes.
List available appearance names (optionally filtered by substring).
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| limit | No | ||
| filter | No |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
v0.6.0Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true and openWorldHint=true, indicating safe read operation. The description adds no further behavioral context beyond what annotations provide. It does not contradict annotations.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
Single sentence, no wasted words. Purpose is front-loaded. Every part is necessary.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
Tool is simple (two optional params, no output schema). Description implies return type (list of names). Annotations cover safety. Slightly less than perfect because no hint about pagination or limit behavior.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema description coverage is 0%, but description adds meaning to 'filter' parameter ('optionally filtered by substring'). However, 'limit' parameter is not explained. Baseline 3 is appropriate given partial compensation.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description clearly states the tool lists available appearance names with optional substring filtering. It uses specific verb 'list' and resource 'appearance names', and distinguishes from sibling tool 'fusion_set_appearance' which sets appearances.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
No guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. Among many listing tools (list_bodies, list_components, etc.), no differentiation is provided. The description does not mention prerequisites or exclusions.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.