STEP files are 3D model data exchange files created based on the ISO 10303 standard, also known as the Standard Exchange of Product data model. This file format is designed to provide a neutral mechanism that is independent of specific systems for the exchange and sharing of product data.
STEP files are an extensible, open, and neutral file format used for the transfer and sharing of 3D model data between different CAD software.
STEP files can describe product information throughout the entire product lifecycle, making them suitable not only for exchange files but also as a basis for executing and sharing product databases and archives. This descriptive nature makes it very suitable for data exchange and interoperability between parts, components, and software for Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Manufacturing (CAM), Analysis (CAE), and Inspection (CMM).
Product Manufacturing Information (PMI) is an important component of STEP files, consisting of annotations and attributes that define product geometry and specifications, including annotations (markups) used to specify geometric dimensions and tolerances (GD&T).
The data composition of the STEP format is divided into two main parts: the file header and the dataset.
File Header: Contains metadata information about the file, such as file name, version number, generation tool, etc.
Dataset: Contains all the information about the product’s geometry, attributes, materials, etc., usually divided into multiple parts, each containing different information, such as geometry, attributes, materials, etc.
The advantages of the STEP format include:
Universality: STEP files can be read and parsed by almost all CAD software. Whether you are using CATIA, SolidWorks, or AutoCAD, you can open and edit a STEP file.
Accuracy: STEP files are based on precise representations of geometry, ensuring data accuracy and consistency. This means there will be no distortion or deformation when transferring models between different software.
Flexibility: STEP files can not only contain geometric data but also store a wealth of related information, such as material properties, assembly relationships, and design intent. This makes the file format very useful in complex product development and collaboration.
#include <TopoDS.hxx>#include <AIS_Shape.hxx>#include <V3d_View.hxx>#include <V3d_Viewer.hxx>#include <AIS_InteractiveContext.hxx>#include <V3d_View.hxx>#include "Viewer.h"#include <STEPControl_Reader.hxx>
int main(int argc, char** argv){ std::cout << "-----Reading STEP START-----" << std::endl; // Read STEP file STEPControl_Reader aReader_Step; aReader_Step.ReadFile("d:\\Documents\\dr.step"); // Check file load status aReader_Step.PrintCheckLoad(Standard_False, IFSelect_ItemsByEntity); // Load STEP file Standard_Integer NbRoots = aReader_Step.NbRootsForTransfer();// Get the number of transferable roots Standard_Integer num = aReader_Step.TransferRoots();// Translate all transferable roots and return the number of successful translations // Read into TopoDS_Shape structure TopoDS_Shape aShape = aReader_Step.Shape(); Viewer vout(50, 50, 500, 500); vout << aShape; vout.StartMessageLoop(); return 0; }
TKernel.lib
TKMath.lib
TKTopAlgo.lib
TKBRep.lib
TKPrim.lib
TKOpenGl.lib
TKService.lib
TKV3d.lib
kernel32.lib
user32.lib
gdi32.lib
TKBinXCAF.lib
TKSTEP.lib
TKSTEP209.lib
TKSTEPAttr.lib
TKSTEPBase.lib
TKXSBase.lib
