Alignment Mark Array Generator for KLayout

This script generates a GDS file containing a grid of cross-shaped alignment marks labeled by row and column. This script was created to explore and get familiar with KLayout’s Python API and batch processing workflow.

Features

• Square array of alignment marks
• Configurable dimensions and spacing
• Label generation using TextGenerator
• Unit conversion across in, mm, µm, um, and nm
• Automatic file versioning to prevent overwrites
• Author attribution embedded as a label in the final row

Output

• GDS files are saved in an output/ directory relative to the script.
• If a file with the default name already exists, a numeric suffix is appended.

Prerequisites

• KLayout (used for layout generation and rendering)
• Python scripting is handled via KLayout’s built-in pya module
• Visual Studio Code (optional, for debugging and automation)

Running the Script

Method 1: KLayout Batch Mode

Run the script directly with:

/Applications/KLayout.app/Contents/MacOS/klayout -b -r square-of-alignment-marks.py

Method 2: Visual Studio Code (Recommended for Iteration)

This project includes optional VS Code configuration files under .vscode/:

• launch.json — Enables Python debugging of the script from within VS Code.
• tasks.json — Automates running the script through KLayout’s batch interface.

To use:

1. Open the project folder in VS Code.
2. Use Run Task to trigger GDS generation.
3. Use Run > Start Debugging (F5) to test Python logic inside VS Code.

Attribution

The last row of the array includes a centered label:

Created By: William Veith

This serves as a digital signature for traceability and versioning.

Purpose

This is a basic, practical script for:

• Learning the KLayout scripting interface
• Testing layout automation techniques
• Creating consistent training/test samples for lithography tools