Creo Elements/Direct Modeling allows any kind of geometry for the 2D profiles, including intersections and open ends. After selection of a workplane, Creo Elements/Direct Modeling analyses the profile, filters out the open ends, and derives connected profiles for pull, punch, or stamp operations. Edges are virtually split at intersections.

The result of the analysis is a number of planar faces which are defined by minimal closed loops or connecting edges. The outline of the connected sets of faces is taken as the default profile for different operations. You can change the default profile by selectively removing some faces for a different result.