Learn NX-OPEN with Real Code Examples

NX Open exposes NX functionality programmatically to automate repetitive tasks.

Supports creating and modifying parts, assemblies, sketches, and drawings.

Allows integration with external systems for PLM, PDM, and custom workflows.

Accessible via multiple languages: Python, C++, C#, Java.

Widely used in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and industrial design automation.

Part and assembly modeling automation

Sketching and feature creation via API

Drawing generation and editing

Simulation setup and automation

Data query and report generation

Session - represents an NX application instance

Part - CAD model or assembly

Feature - individual modeling operation (extrude, hole, etc.)

Attribute - parameter of CAD object

Journal/Script - recorded or custom automation code

Source files (.py, .cs, .java, .cpp)

Reference NX Open libraries

Scripts for batch processing

Configuration files (optional)

Documentation for automation workflow

Create NX Open project in preferred language

Connect to NX session

Access or create parts and assemblies

Manipulate geometry, features, and parameters

Save, export, or generate reports

Beginner: simple geometry creation script

Intermediate: batch drawing generation

Advanced: parametric assembly automation

Expert: simulation setup and results extraction

Architect: full NX-PDM-ERP integration workflow

NX Open vs NX Journal Recording: NX Open is programmatic, journal is recorded macro

NX Open vs SolidWorks API: NX Open more enterprise-grade

NX Open vs Open Cascade: NX Open proprietary but fully integrated

NX Open vs scripting alone: API enables automation, scripting is limited

NX Open vs Siemens Teamcenter automation: complementary, NX Open for modeling, Teamcenter for data

1990s - Unigraphics API introduced

2000s - NX Open formalized with Python and C# support

2010 - Expanded Java API

2015 - Enhanced .NET integration

2018 - NX Open C++ improvements

2020 - Cloud-based NX Server support

2022 - Latest NX Open release with automation templates

2024 - Expanded PLM and simulation automation APIs

2025 - Continued integration with Siemens digital twin solutions

NX Open - API for Siemens NX

Session - NX application instance

Part - CAD document

Feature - geometry operation

WorkPart - current active model