Details
Programs that need to collect NX assembly information and correlate it with a STEP203/214/242 translated assembly can become out of synchronization, why?
Solution
Within NX, it depends upon these various functions: arrangements (components are either moved or hidden), reference sets (and if the component is included or hidden), component suppression (to make hidden the component), Hide (to make hidden a component).
Any component within an assembly set to be hidden when the assembly is opened, then that component will not be loaded in any form (fully, partially, or minimally) once the NX assembly is opened.
When using the industry standard STEP translations and exporting the data from NX, the STEP file will not include components that are hidden within the assembly in STEP203/214/242.
Additionally in STEP242, empty components (components containing no geometry) are also not included within the STEP translation.
In conclusion, NX can be reset to load all components regardless, even if they contain no objects within the file by changing all the previously mentioned settings. This will permanently alter the NX assembly if saved.
Whereas, STEP translates assemblies in their last saved state with no control to change the outcome. Also, there is no option in STEP to not exclude components which contain no geometry as done in STEP242.
Notes and References
This is how NX and STEP export translations work as of September 30, 2021.
Hardware/Software Configuration
Platform: all
OS: n/a
OS Version: n/a
Product: NX
Application: ASSEMBLIES
Version: V1996
Function: ARCHITECTURE
Ref: 002-8577928