ProtoFlow is an AI‑native desktop tool that lets hardware engineers describe a PCB or circuit in plain language and receive an initial schematic with parts placed and early wiring cleaned up. The workflow streamlines part searching and generates a cleaner first draft, reducing the time spent on repetitive layout tasks before detailed design work.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Hardware engineers spend excessive time on repetitive tasks such as part searching, symbol and footprint creation, and manual wiring when drafting a new PCB, which slows concept development and distracts from core design work.
Solution
ProtoFlow provides an AI‑native desktop application that lets engineers describe the desired circuit in plain language and receive an initial schematic with key components placed and wiring cleaned up. The tool integrates a unified parts search across distributors, inline datasheet viewing, and automatic generation of symbols and footprints, reducing the manual data‑entry steps. AI‑driven automation handles the first‑pass placement and routing, while the interface supports real‑time collaboration, version control, and native KiCad file compatibility for downstream layout. Users can iterate quickly from idea to a readable PCB starting point before moving to detailed layout and fabrication.
Target Audience
ProtoFlow targets hardware engineers, hobbyists, and students who design PCBs and need a faster way to create initial schematics, as well as engineering teams seeking collaborative, AI‑assisted design workflows.
Features
- Natural‑language circuit description that generates a draft schematic with component placement and auto‑routed nets
- Integrated parts search across multiple distributors with inline datasheet viewer
- AI‑powered symbol and footprint generation from part names, datasheets, or pinout images
- Automatic cleanup of repetitive wiring and net organization for a readable draft
- Real‑time multi‑user collaboration with live cursors, comments, and threaded design reviews
- Full Git integration and visual diff viewer for version control of schematic changes
- Native import/export of KiCad files, enabling seamless handoff to existing layout tools
- Built‑in AI copilot offering 50+ tools for tasks such as BOM generation, design analysis, and simulation