resizable footprints (logos)

[Thomas Pointhuber]

# Use case

simplifies placing of graphic symbols on the pcb (logo, codes,...)

# Feature Request

Add support to resize of footprints. Currently, logo's for example, are added to the official library in various sizes to support basic requirements: https://github.com/KiCad/kicad-footprints/tree/master/Symbol.pretty

This approach has the problem it fills up the library with lots of duplicates, and users are limited to the provided sizes. Supporting resizable footprints would solve this.

I imagine resizable footprints should only work with polygons because those can be easily transformed. In the UI, the footprint gets a bounding box with control points, which allows at least resize. Rotation/Shearing operations could also be supported on the canvas.

[Tomasz Wlostowski (twlostow)]

Hi Thomas,

There's a work-in-progress SVG import plugin intended for placing logos or fancy graphics. We're looking for someone to finish it. Any volunteers?

Tom

[Chris Elliott (sembazuru)]

I think there is place for the built-in scaling function. Take, for example, the KiCad logo (Symbol:Symbol_KiCAD-Logo_CopperAndSilkScreenTop) in the standard Symbol library. That logo is composed of 3 fabrication layers. Silkscreen, copper for the "Ki", and solder mask to expose the copper for visual impact. That's more than a simple SVG import because of the different layers.

But to properly implement logo scaling the footprint file format should include an optional parameter telling KiCad that it is allowed to be scaled. Otherwise support will be flooded with requests for help because they scaled a regular footprint (either accidentally, or intentionally) and their part doesn't fit anymore.

In the mean time, I suppose Maui's StepUp might be a way to scale existing logos into new footprints. I haven't tried yet, though.

[Chris Elliott (sembazuru)]

My error. That logo I referenced doesn't actually have any copper layer. It is only 2 fabrication layers. But my point still stands.