VISI provides a dynamic structure from where it is possible to work with either solid, surface, wireframe or a combination of all three without any restrictions. Solid modelling has become a fundamental cornerstone of design but is often limited to prismatic or basic geometry. Solid modelling commands include boolean technology such as unite, subtract, extrude, revolve, sweep, cavity, intersect and hollow. Surfacing technology however provides a different set to tools and techniques for more organic, free-form geometry creation. Surface modelling functions include ruled, lofted, drive, sweep, n-sided patch, drape, tangent, draft, revolved and piped surfaces. These modelling commands combined with advanced surface editing make it easy to heal imported geometry or construct the most complex 3D data.

Starting with the developed component blank it is possible to quickly formulate a 3D strip layout. Automatic blank alignment, rotation and optimizations help plan a more efficient strip. Punch design and layout becomes more effective with the use of the automatic 2D strip plan, including fold lines. A variety of automatic and semi automatic tools assist in the creation of shearing punches that once created can be dynamically moved to different stages in the strip using drag & drop. Placement of 3D folding stages into the strip is a seamless process and the strip can be easily updated to accommodate a reduction or increase in number of stages. At any point it is possible to access all the strip parameters including strip width and pitch for essential modification when required. The 3D strip can be simulated at any point to check the validity and performance of the design.

The economy (material wastage) of the strip layout is automatically calculated when comparing the developed blank to the actual material used at each station within the tool. Critical forces essential for successful tool design are also provided, these include shearing force, bending force and stripping force calculations which are all computed from the 3D models and their material properties. These forces can be calculated globally for the complete tool or locally for a specific station.

The tool assembly allows the designer to quickly construct a solid based layout of the required bolster plates along with the necessary pillar and bush arrangements. Access to the parameters of each individual plate ensures that modification of the tool layout is quick and efficient. The Tool Assembly will typically include all the critical data required for correct operation of the press tool, including press stroke, strip stroke, punch height and tool stroke information. Each assembly can be stored as a tooling template, or alternatively a template can be chosen from a list of common tool standards. The template can then be applied to suit another strip layout, automatically adapting the tool to the dimensions of the new strip. Part list information is also captured within the tool assembly for downstream processes such as 2D detailing and stock ordering.​

VISI Progress can unfold both surface and solid models using a powerful geometry based unfolding algorithm. The developed blank is based on a Neutral Fibre model calculated by choosing one of the standard offset ratios or using an automatic neutral axis formula. Step by Step unfolding allows the designer to plan each forming stage by dynamically adjusting bend angles. It is possible to incorporate parametric features such as ribs and bosses that can be activated or deactivated as required at forming stage. Flexible editing allows the removal or addition of extra stages providing the user with complete freedom for unfolding experimentation.

VISI Progress supports standard parts libraries from all leading suppliers of Progressive Die Tooling components, including Misumi, Futaba, AW Precision, Fibro, Strack, Danly, Rabourdin, Mandelli, Sideco, Intercom, Bordignon, Dadco, Dayton, Din, Kaller, Lamina, Lempco, MDL, Pedrotti Special Spring, Superior, Tipco, Uni and Victoria. The proprietary parametric component library enables both quick and accurate placement of each standard component and ensures that modifications can be made at any stage during the project. Each component has a full list of editable parameters enabling essential adjustments to suit individual tooling requirements; this includes the creation of clearance holes for each component. All components come with manufacturing data attributes and a full parts list itinerary.