Design service value question

Hi:
I apologize for putting this out to the list because it is a bit
off-topic; unfortunately the message is really most germane to
the community here versus rec.crafts.metalworking. So, here it
goes....

I have been requested to design a specialized CNC machine for a
company and to then effect its manufacture. I think I have
established a rate for the manufacturing portion of this at about
$45 or so per hour. This is based upon the fact that I am not a
commercial entity and hence can't expect to charge commercial
rates. My knowledge and machinery are not setup in as a commercial
operation.

My big problem, however, is what do I charge for design services. I
am an engineer by training so much of what I'm doing falls more into
the realm of consulting services (when designing the thing). I'd
like to hear from people on rates they feel are reasonable for
design (consulting) services.

Thanks,
--Alan

P.S. To avoid bogging down the list with messages that many may have
no interest in, I would encourage you to send responses to:

alan@...