kicad-footprint-generator

name	kicad-footprint-generator
description	Generates production-ready KiCad footprint scripts (.py) from component datasheets (images, PDFs, or text). Specializes in precise coordinate math and official KiCad API compliance.

KiCad Footprint Generator

🎯 Primary Goal

Transform component physical specifications into a fully functional, hardcoded KiCad Footprint Wizard script. The output must be a ready-to-run Python script that automates the generation of a .kicad_mod file within the KiCad environment.

🛠 Strategic Workflow

1. Specification Research

Extract precise dimensions from provided inputs (images, PDFs, or descriptions). Focus on:

• Pin/Pad geometry (pitch, width, length).
• Package body dimensions and Pin 1 orientation.
• Thermal pad (EPad) requirements and courtyard clearances. Refer to Analysis Guide.

2. Template Selection & Mapping

Identify the package type (SOP, QFP, BGA, QFN, etc.) and map it to the corresponding template in templates/. Refer to Templates Reference.

3. Implementation (Hardcoded Logic)

Generate a standalone Python script where all dimensions are hardcoded.

• Rule: The user should not have to configure parameters; the script should generate the specific footprint immediately upon execution.
• API Compliance: Strictly follow the conventions in docs/API_REFERENCE.md.

4. Local Verification

Before delivering the script, perform the mandatory verification steps:

1. Syntax Check: python3 <script>.py
2. Lifecycle Test: Run BuildFootprint() via CLI. Refer to the full Verification Workflow.

5. Deployment & Delivery

• Deploy the script to the detected KiCad scripting directory.
• Provide clear run instructions to the user. Refer to Environment & Deployment.

📚 Supporting Documentation

• Detailed Guide - Deep dive into the generation process.
• API & Templates - KiCad Python API and blueprint mapping.
• Environment Setup - Path detection and installation.
• Verification - Mandatory testing procedures.
• Examples - Reference implementations.