Abstract

An electronic template includes components stored with corresponding dimensional data. Each component is assigned an insertion point by which a user may interface with a computer-aided design operating system for indicating the desired position and rotational orientation of a selected component. First selected components comprise primary components, and typically have further accessory attachment points designated thereon, whereby subsequent accessory components may be automatically connected in the design to its primary component with which it mates. The accessory attachment point defines a target for insertion of the accessory component, thereby maintaining positional accuracy without requiring the user to determine positioning relationships for mating parts. Once entered into the design, the user may draw on the component dimensional data for calculating dimensions on the drawing.