Set project rules from reviewed inputs
Begin with the agreed regional stackup, conductor clearances, hole requirements, and interface geometry. Make rules reflect the proposed fabrication process rather than leaving unrelated defaults unexamined. Use the DFM review to identify constraints that CAD can check and requirements that remain drawing-based. Record any condition that differs by region or construction.
KiCad project handoff
| Handoff item | Required meaning | Cross-check |
|---|---|---|
| Design rules | Reviewed electrical and fabrication constraints | Check configured rules and exceptions |
| User drawings | Flex-specific regional intent | Compare labels with the manifest |
| Fabrication files | Released conductor and hole geometry | Inspect exported layers independently |
| Assembly files | Component identity and location | Check BOM, placement and drawing consistency |
Give documentation layers explicit meanings
Use clearly labeled drawing layers and a fabrication document to communicate bend zones, stiffener outlines, contact areas, and special openings. Link these to the drawing checklist. Do not assume the name of a user layer tells a manufacturer how to build it; include a file manifest and viewing-side convention in the package.
Export and inspect the deliverables
KiCad 10 documents fabrication, drill, netlist, and assembly output workflows. Choose the formats your intended manufacturer agrees to receive. Review plotted layers in a separate viewer and compare them with the drawing. For assembly, check placement origin, orientation, and BOM revision. Record the KiCad version and archived project alongside the released outputs so the export can be reproduced.
Before you release the design
- Name coverlay and stiffener outputs explicitly.
- Use a common origin and units across related deliverables.
- Inspect the generated package after the last layout edit.
- Archive the project version with the approved drawing revision.
Watch points
- A clean design-rule report does not verify an unencoded bend or support requirement.
Practical questions
Can Gerbers alone describe the entire flex?
They describe plotted geometry. Provide the regional material construction, reinforcement, bend intent, tolerances, and acceptance requirements in an accompanying drawing and manifest.
Should I supply every export format KiCad supports?
Agree the primary accepted format with the recipient. Redundant packages can create conflicts unless they are generated together and clearly identified as equivalent views of one release.
Technical references
References support the material or design context. Check the exact grade, part number, document revision and project conditions before release.Updated 27 September 2026 · Technical content policy · Engineering guidance supports project review; the agreed drawing defines the build.