# Frequently asked questions

## What does APTUS DesignWorks do?

We're an on-demand design and engineering team. We help turn product ideas into products that can be made: concept, 3D design, prototypes, testing, documentation, and working with manufacturers. We also design automation equipment, controls, fixtures, and assembly tools. Think of us as a design department you can plug in when you need one.

## What kinds of products and industries do you work with?

Functional products and equipment, from low to high volume, across consumer, industrial, automotive, and more. Our customers range from first-time inventors to global manufacturers. If it's a functional product or a machine, it's probably in our wheelhouse.

## I have an idea but don't know where to start. Can you still help?

Absolutely. That's one of our favorite places to start. Many customers come to us with just an idea or a sketch, and we help think it through: what it does, who it's for, whether it's feasible, and what it will take to get to market.

## Do you work with startups?

Yes, and we love it. We've helped many inventors and startups bring products to life. We meet you where you are and explain things in plain language.

## How does your development process work?

Three phases. Invention: define the product, the market, and the budget, and confirm the idea works. Creation: industrial, mechanical, and manufacturing design, plus prototyping and real-world testing. Execution: documentation, sourcing, and production support.

You can jump in at any phase, and you don't have to do all three with us.

## How much does it cost to develop a product?

It depends on complexity, where you're starting, and how far you want to go. Instead of a one-size-fits-all price, we build a budget with you and manage it together. Our projects have ranged from $10,000 to $1,000,000.

## How do you charge for your work?

Most product development projects are Time & Materials: you pay for actual design time and materials, and we manage the budget together. We can also work to an estimate for a defined scope, or a Not-to-Exceed cap if you want extra predictability.

## Is it possible to get a fixed price for the entire project?

Yes, but it's often not the best value. Inventing new things involves unknowns, so a fixed price needs a safety buffer that can inflate the cost. Most customers prefer Time & Materials with a Not-to-Exceed cap. We'll help you choose.

## Will my budget get out of control?

No. You stay in control. We bill about monthly, you can set a written Not-to-Exceed cap at any time, and stage gates mean the next step only starts when you approve it.

## How long will my project take?

It depends on the product and the phases you take on. We'll give you a target schedule up front and keep you posted as things change.

## Who will I work with day to day?

One project manager is your main contact, backed by our designers and technicians. Our designers hold four-year engineering degrees and work in SolidWorks. You're always welcome to ask for specific team members.

## How do we stay in touch and track progress?

Regular updates, online and face to face, whether you're local or remote. Your project manager tracks status, milestones, time, and budget, so you always know where things stand.

## Who owns my idea and the intellectual property?

You do. New intellectual property we create for your project is yours. If our engineers are listed as inventors on a patent, that only strengthens it. You remain the owner (assignee).

## Do I need a patent before I contact you?

No. Many customers come to us before filing anything. We'll help you see where a patent fits and work alongside your patent attorney when the time comes. Patent searches are handled on your side, but we're happy to point you in the right direction.

## Will you keep my idea confidential?

Yes. We protect your information, gladly sign a mutual NDA, and tell you up front about any potential conflict of interest.

## Do you build prototypes in-house?

Yes. Prototyping is at the heart of what we do. Our Alcoa workshop has a prototyping and measurement lab and a shop for assembly and testing, so we can go from rough mockups to working prototypes quickly.

## Can you help me get my product manufactured?

Yes. We create production drawings, find and vet suppliers, get competitive quotes, and manage vendors and pilot runs. Want us to carry even more? LaunchPad, our managed launch service, handles sourcing, inventory, assembly, and quality control. Our engineers design the assembly process too, so it can move with you.

## Do you do "engineering" with a professional engineer's stamp?

Most product design doesn't need a stamp, but when yours does, our Tennessee-licensed Professional Engineer can provide stamped engineering. Just let us know up front so we include it in the scope.

## What do I need to bring to our first conversation?

Just your idea and your goals. Sketches, samples, drawings, or notes on your market help, but none of it is required.

## Where are you located, and do you work with remote customers?

Our workshop is at 253 Aluminum Ave in Alcoa, Tennessee, just outside Knoxville. We love working with local businesses, and we work just as well with customers anywhere, using online tools and regular check-ins.