Read STEP for XCAF output
A STEP-to-XCAF workflow connects the STEP reader to the XCAF writer. Select the model items and output representation needed by the receiving application.
Read STP or STEP files with the OCCT STEP reader. STEP supports precise BRep and mesh representations, along with assembly structure and supported attributes through the XDE document workflow.
Build and store an XCAF document
Inspect the selected parts before choosing their output representation. Preserve BRep for a precise-geometry writer; reuse suitable source meshes or tessellate the CAD surfaces for a mesh destination. Keep assembly placements associated with their parts.
Place the imported geometry in an XCAF document and map the supported names, colors and structure to its labels. Use the native OCCT document storage appropriate to the selected XBF or XML delivery. Mesh data can remain mesh in the document; creating labels does not generate analytic CAD surfaces.
Check the XCAF result
Check the STEP representation, unit scale, names, colors and required attributes. A source file containing tessellated data does not necessarily contain the analytic geometry needed for subsequent solid modeling.
Reopen the document in the intended OCCT application and verify geometry, occurrence placements and mapped attributes. Keep application-specific additions distinct from source properties. XCAF storage is useful for continuing an OCCT workflow, but the recipient must support the chosen document format.
Discuss this conversion with the producing and receiving applications, representative files and required geometry and attributes. Compare the reader/writer catalog when a different representation is needed.