autoplace using the netlist file .net and line and node graphing software. I seen their was software that spaced things out based on their connection.
Then it hit me latter that is a net list also. So if the modules were placed by drawing a box larger than thefurthest part of the component for eatch component and boundry detection. Then the net diagram could be used to detangle the netlist and give someone something to start with better than the current autoplace.