Abstract: A method for use in CAD modeling software to define product structure based on virtual components created independent from geometry and without the need to create files on disk. With the additional capability of assigning geometry to the virtual components of the product structure that sets and orients the virtual components and manages multiple occurrences of like components. Further, the virtual component are published into real components with automatic 3D file creation completed.

Abstract: A system is disclosed which enables a user of a computer system to have direct control over the priorities assigned to the execution of tasks requested by the user. The user establishes a user tolerance level indicative of the delay the user is willing to tolerate before a task is assigned to background manager. Then whenever a task is requested by the user, a calculation is made to determine whether the task will require more or less time than the user tolerance. If the task requires more time, it is assigned to the control of a background manager, while if it requires less time, it is executed to completion immediately without further instruction from the user. The background manager handles the execution of all background tasks, maintaining the proper order for data consistency, yet allowing the user to rearrange execution priorities when necessary.