# APTUS DesignWorks

> APTUS DesignWorks is a product design and automation engineering team in Alcoa, Tennessee, just outside Knoxville. Since 2007, we've helped startups and manufacturers take ideas from first sketch to production, and designed the machines, fixtures, and test equipment that build them.

We design products, and the machines that make them. APTUS DesignWorks is a product design and automation engineering team just outside Knoxville, Tennessee. From first sketch to production, we're with you the whole way.

**Facts**

- Location: Alcoa, TN, just outside Knoxville, Tennessee
- Address: 253 Aluminum Ave, Alcoa, TN 37701, US
- Serving: Knoxville, Tennessee; Maryville, Tennessee; Alcoa, Tennessee; East Tennessee; Southeastern United States; United States
- Founded: 2007
- Team size: 14 people, all listed by name and role at https://www.aptusdesignworks.com/about
- Founder and President: Ben Nibali
- A licensed Professional Engineer on staff (P.E., TN)
- Contact: info@aptusengineering.com, 865.888.0042
- Profiles: [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/aptusdesignworks/), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/aptusdesignworks), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/aptusdesignworks/), [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/aptusdesignworks), [Google](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ym6YnpcNtkNxCaUi8), [Reviews on Clutch](https://clutch.co/profile/aptus-designworks)

## At a glance

- Since 2007 designing, building, and testing
- 80%+ of our work is for returning customers
- 14 people engineers, designers, and techs
- In-house prototyping lab and shop

## Services

- [Product Design](https://www.aptusdesignworks.com/services/product-design): From a rough idea to product on the shelf. We design it, prototype it, test it, and help you get it made.
- [Automation Engineering](https://www.aptusdesignworks.com/services/automation-engineering): Custom machines, test equipment, fixtures, and assembly tools, designed around your line and supported through start-up.
- [LaunchPad](https://www.aptusdesignworks.com/services/launchpad): Our engineers design your production process, then run it: suppliers, assembly, and quality checks. When you're ready, the whole setup moves with you.

## Selected work

- [Vivi Custom Foundation System](https://www.aptusdesignworks.com/work/blank-beauty-foundation-machine): Blank Beauty's color science, built into a working machine in 7 months
- [SASE 8KR Remote-Controlled Concrete Grinder](https://www.aptusdesignworks.com/work/sase-8kr-concrete-grinder): Remote-controlled grinder for job sites without power
- [Hydramax Clutch System](https://www.aptusdesignworks.com/work/american-powertrain-hydramax-clutch): Cut component cost 50% on a flagship clutch
- [Durability Test Fixtures](https://www.aptusdesignworks.com/work/durability-test-fixtures): Multiple test fixtures, PO to delivery in under 3 weeks
- [High-Speed Press Transfer Cell](https://www.aptusdesignworks.com/work/high-speed-press-transfer-cell): 2-second cycle press cell, multi-vendor integration
- [Production Loading Machine](https://www.aptusdesignworks.com/work/production-loading-machine): Delivered ahead of schedule, first machine on the new line

## Common 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.

### 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.

### 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.

### 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).

### 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.

**APTUS DesignWorks** · 253 Aluminum Ave, Alcoa, TN 37701 (Just outside Knoxville, Tennessee)  
Phone: 865.888.0042 · Email: info@aptusengineering.com · Web: https://www.aptusdesignworks.com