/ki_qihe

KiCAD plugin for QIHE PnP machines

Primary LanguagePythonGNU General Public License v3.0GPL-3.0

KiCAD plugin for QIHE PnP machines. "Ki-QIHE"

QIHE PnP Coords Processor for KiCAD The QIHE PnP Coords Processor is a plugin for KiCAD designed to automate the creation of coordinate files for QIHE pick-and-place machines. This plugin simplifies the process of setting up manufacturing files for your PCB designs, enhancing the efficiency of your production line.

Features

  • Layer Selection: Choose between top, bottom, or both layers for generating coordinates.
  • Component Mapping: Define custom mappings for components to specific feeders and nozzles.
  • Prefix Management: Set custom file prefixes for the generated coordinate files.
  • Log Verbosity Control: Adjust the level of detail in the plugin's logs to suit your needs.
  • Direct Mapping File Editing: Open and edit the component mapping file directly through the plugin interface.

Installation

  1. Download the Plugin:
  • Navigate to the Releases section of this repository and download the latest version.
  1. Install the Plugin in KiCAD: Restart KiCAD to load the plugin.

Usage

Once installed, the QIHE PnP Coords Processor can be accessed from plugins toolbar in KiCAD.

Main Interface

  • Generate COORDS Button: Initiates the coordinate file generation process for selected layers.
  • Top/Bottom Checkboxes: Select whether to generate coordinates for the top layer, bottom layer, or both.
  • Top/Bottom Layer Prefix: Set custom prefixes for the generated files to help identify them easily.

Advanced Settings

  • Mapping File Location: Choose where to save the component mapping file - either in the plugin folder or the PCB project folder.
  • Log Verbosity: Select the level of log detail from minimal (0) to detailed debug information (3).

Editing the Component Mapping File

  • Edit Button: Opens the component mapping file in your system's default text editor, allowing you to make changes directly.

Contributing

Contributions are welcome! Please feel free to submit pull requests, or file issues for bugs, feature requests, and suggestions through the GitHub Issues page.

Support

If you encounter any problems or have questions about using the plugin, please check the Wiki or file an issue.

License

This project is licensed under the MIT License - see the LICENSE file for details.

Acknowledgments

Thanks to all contributors who have helped test, refine, and extend the functionality of this plugin.