Some kind of CAD software needed...

I'm simply trying to draw out a design for a case side panel that I have come up with, and have tried using Google Sketchup but that must be the most frustrating thing I have ever done!! To be fair, it probaly isn't designed for doing flat panel CA type drawings.

Cam anyone suggest a free alternative?

Need to be able to start with a rectangle, and make cut out etc etc

Other than Autocad, you can try Visio or Corel - don't know of any worthwhile free programs. Some local libraries have Autocad for free use at the library.

Looks impressive!

Good idea, and all the best in your design efforts!

I use Autocad for my machine/automation designs and builds, and am not familiar with Google Sketchup. However, I am impressed with your drawing/sketch of the side panel.

It would be nice to know whether Google Sketchup can be imported to Autocad for fabrication of the parts that you are designing. In any case, with the dimensions and the layout, a designer can quickly place all these in Autocad and that data can be fed into the fabrication machine tools (Turret Punch Press), for prototypes.

Curved slots (and sharp corners) are very difficult and expensive to produce. Circles are ok. Try and stay with geometric shapes as opposed to artistic shapes (expensive to produce). Also, there must be sufficient land between slots, cutouts, etc.; or else distortion will occur during manufacture.

Good luck!