Well-versed in AutoCAD and Google SketchUp (not so much solid works). But not so sure how all these are suitable for generating panel patterns. Any geeks out there using any low-cost platforms for kite design?

Maybe Surfplan Hobby version - http://www.surfplan.com.au/sp/downloads/index.aspx

Interesting - tx.

Blender + Python
It takes some time to get into blender but in combination with python you get all the flexibility you need to design and unfold your kite.
Surfplan (hobby) is superb to visualize kites. But be careful with higher AoA and FTs with a higher sweep back angle (delta kite).

Yes, I cannot seem to extrude a delta kite from surfplan very well at all and the hobby version will not export the panels.

there are rumors you can export the panels with some tinkering, but what does it give you?
are you going to produce the kites? if yes, cost of this software is the least you have to worry.

you will get better results with trial and error method. at least it seams the method all major brands use! after that they just insert the measurements in this software just to be able to e-mail and cut the panes overseas...
if you don't believe me read their interviews for yourself. there are only handful of real aerodynamic professionals in the kite industry!



this is another one software:

http://www.wingdesignsoftware.net/indexEN.htm

i am seriously considering doing an aerodynamic masters for a year, got a BEng already, simply because what I want no one makes. I made a 12m kite with surfplan years ago - took sooooo long to complete...

One of the kite factories has just given up on kitesurfing kites.... - one less experienced factory..

Curious, what do you want in a kite?