Color_-_Trash_Imaging_Solicitation_(003).pdf

SOLICITATION, OFFER AND AWARD

1. THIS CONTRACT IS A RATED ORDER

UNDER DPAS (15 CFR 700)

RATING PAGE PAGE(S)

1 71

2. CONTRACT NO. 3. SOLICITATION NO. 4. TYPE OF SOLICITATION 5. DATE ISSUED 6. REQUISITION/PURCHASE NO.

12474018R0019 SEALED BID (IFB)

NEGOTIATED (RFP)

10/10/2018

7. ISSUED BY CODE 8. ADDRESS OFFER TO (If other than Item 7)

USDA, AMS, Cotton and Tobacco Program 100 Riverside Parkway, Suite 101 Fredericksburg, VA 22406

NOTE: In sealed bid solicitations “offer” and “offeror” mean “bid” and “bidder”

SOLICITATION

9. Sealed offers in original and ____1___ copies for furnishing the supplies or services in the Schedule will be received at the place specified in Item 8, or if handcarried, in the depository located in _______block 7 ______________until 3:00 PM central__ local time ___11/15/2018.

CAUTION LATE Submissions, Modifications, and Withdrawals: See Section L, Provision No. 52.214-7 or 52.215-1. All offers are subject to all terms and conditions contained in this solicitation.

10. A. NAME B. TELEPHONE NO. (NO COLLECT CALLS) C. E-MAIL ADDRESS

FOR

INFORMATION

CALL:

Beverly Brown Intl

CODE

NUMBER EXT. BeverlyS.Brown@usda.gov

540 361-1126

11. TABLE OF CONTENTS

(x) SEC. DESCRIPTION PAGE(S) (x) SEC. DESCRIPTION PAGE(S)

PART I - THE SCHEDULE

X A SOLICITATION/CONTRACT FORM 1 X I CONTRACT CLAUSES 14-19

X B SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICE/COST 2 PART III - LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS AND OTHER ATTACH.

X C DESCRIPTION/SPECS./WORK STATEMENT 3-6 X J LIST OF ATTACHMENTS 20-24

X D PACKAGING AND MARKING 7 PART IV – REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

X E INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE 8 X K REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS AND OTHER

STATEMENTS OF OFFERORS

25-38

X F DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE 9

X G CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA 10 X L INSTRS., CONDS., AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS 39 - 41

X H SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS 11-13 X M EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD

OFFER (Must be fully completed by offeror) NOTE: Item 12 does not apply if the solicitation includes the provisions at 52.214-16, Minimum Bid Acceptance Period.

12. In compliance with the above, the undersigned agrees, if this offer is accepted within _____ calendar days (60 calendar days unless a different period is inserted by the offeror) from the date for receipt of offers specified above, to furnish any or all items upon which prices are offered at the price set opposite each item, delivered at the designated point(s), within the time specified in the schedule.

13. DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT PAYMENT

(See Section I, Clause No. 52.232-8)

10 CALENDAR DAYS (%) 20 CALENDAR DAYS (%) 30 CALENDAR DAYS (%) CALENDAR DAYS (%)

14. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS (The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the SOLICITATION for offerors and related documents numbered and dated:

AMENDMENT NO. DATE AMENDMENT NO. DATE

15A. NAME

AND

ADDRESS

OF OFFEROR

CODE FACIL

ITY

16. NAME AND TITLE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO SIGN OFFER (Type or print)

15B. TELEPHONE NUMBER 15C. CHECK IF REMITTANCE

ADDRESS

IS DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE – ENTER

SUCH ADDRESS IN SCHEDULE.

17. SIGNATURE 18. OFFER DATE

AREA

CODE

NUMBER EXT.

AWARD (To be completed by Government)

19. ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS NUMBERED 20. AMOUNT 21. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION

22. AUTHORITY FOR USING OTHER THAN FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION: 23. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN ITEM

10 U.S.C. 2304(c) ( ) 41 U.S.C. 253(c) ( 2 ) (4 copies unless otherwise specified)

24. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 7) CODE 25. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE

26. NAME OF Contracting Officer (Type or print) 27. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 28. AWARD

DATE

(Signature of Contracting Officer)

IMPORTANT: Award will be made on this Form, or on Standard Form 26, or by other authorized official written notice.

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

Previous edition not usable.

33-133 STANDARD FORM 33 (Rev. 9-97) Prescribed by GSA FAR (48 CFR) 53.214(c)

PART I – THE SCHEDULE

SECTION B –SERVICES OR SUPPLIES AND PRICES / COSTS

B.1 AGAR 452.216-73 MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM CONTRACT AMOUNTS (FEB 1988)

During the period specified in FAR clause 52.216-18, ORDERING, the Government shall place orders totaling a minimum of 2, but not in excess of 100.

(End of Clause)

B.2 Schedule of Supplies/Services

The Contractors proposal shall be in accordance with the Contract Line Item Number (CLIN) structure identified herein. Contractor may add CLIN’s as needed in their contract proposal. All pricing CLINs must be broken down in the cost proposal submitted.

CLIN Description of Item Estimated Unit Unit Price Total Amount No. Quantity

0001 First Article Testing (FAT) Color/Trash Module0F

1 2 EA $_________ $__________

0002 Production Unit (PU) – Color/Trash Module1F

2 98 EA $_________ $__________

0003 User/Service Manual 1 EA $_________ $__________

0004 On-Site Training including 1 LOT $_________ $__________ Training manuals and materials

0005 Full Service Maintenance 96 MO $_________ $__________

Offeror may add additional CLINS as needed.

1 FAT Pricing should include all costs and risk expected to be associated with completion of the FAT requirement. The FAT pricing should be broken down and shown in the cost proposal submitted by the contractor.

2 PU pricing should exclude all FAT-related costs. PU pricing should be broken down and shown in the cost proposal submitted by the contractor.

Section C – Statement of Work

C.1 BACKGROUND:

The USDA, AMS, Cotton and Tobacco Programs (C&T) operate High Volume Instruments (HVI) to electronically classify cotton samples (approximately 8 ounces) that are taken from full bales (500 pounds) at gin locations and transported to designated testing laboratories operated by the C&T. The laboratories operate under strict climate requirements for cotton testing of 70 degrees F, plus or minus 1 degree and 65 percent relative humidity plus or minus 2 percent.

Currently an operator places samples in designated locations on the HVI to test fiber length, strength, uniformity, micronaire, color and trash content. These instruments are solely relied upon by USDA and the domestic and international cotton industries to provide accurate and timely classification data for the marketing stream. The data is transmitted in real time, as samples are tested, to mainframe computers and made available to owners or agents of the cotton all over the world. C&T is considered the world’s leader in HVI testing and tests virtually every bale of cotton grown in the U.S. each year (approximately 15-18 million samples on average in a typical year) so speed, accuracy and efficiency are key components of the C&T operation in each of its ten testing locations across the Cotton Belt.

C.2 SCOPE:

The USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), Cotton and Tobacco Program is seeking a contractor to produce a Color / Trash (C/T) module, a fully automatic cotton imaging instruments. The Contractor shall furnish, as required, the equipment, software, full service commercial warranty, full service maintenance, and other services required for the installation and support of all items supplied under this contract. Such equipment, software, maintenance, and other Contractor support services shall conform to the terms and conditions of this contract.

The Contractor shall propose only new equipment.

C.3 DEFINITIONS:

C.4. MANDATORY TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS:

C.4.1. C/T modules are to be designed with one independent cabinet for color, trash and extraneous matter measurements.

C.4.2. The C/T module shall provide measurements of Color Rd, Color +b, and for non-lint particles in terms of total particle count and total percent area. All measurements are to be obtained from high resolution (5 megapixel minimum) digital images. The measurement data will be displayed on the instrument’s screen display, transmitted to the connected host computer and stored on the instrument.

C.4.3. All system errors/messages will be logged to an error log file (*.txt format) and be displayed on the instrument’s monitor at the press of a function key. The screen log will display the count of each occurrence. Errors listed will include both Windows errors and instrument software application errors.

C.4.4. The C/T module shall be under control of its own computer system and be capable of independent operation and communication with the connected host computer (USDA NonStop system).

HVI “High Volume Instrument” The individual instruments utilized for actual cotton testing located in the classification (classing) lab area. An Instrument may be composed of one or more modules.

C/T Color/Trash EM Extraneous Matter – is any substance in the cotton other than fiber or leaf Frame A basic structure that supports all the components of a system. Unlike a cabinet, the frame would be void of doors, hoods, or other structures that would enclose the system except as required for safety purposes.

L/S Length/Strength/Uniformity or the Length/Strength/Uniformity/Automic module/Frame assembly

Module A major subassembly of the instrument contained in either a cabinet or frame. The HVI will consist of two major modules; the Length/Strength/Uniformity/Automic (L/S) frame module, and the Color/Trash (CT) cabinet module.

Manual Mode (maintenance or setup)

A mode of operations in which an individual is loading cotton samples into a module for maintenance actions or for calibration.

New Equipment

New equipment is defined as equipment of recent manufacture not previously delivered to any user.

Production Mode

A mode of operation in which cotton is run through the module(s) aided by automation.

QMP Quality Management Program RFID Radio Frequency Identification

C.4.5. The USDA, AMS, Cotton and Tobacco Program has prepared minimum Information Technology Standards for new instrument purchases by using the applicable sections of the USDA, AMS, Technical Specifications for workstations in ITS Directive 907. If you feel you have an appropriate justification to not meet these standards, a waiver request must be submitted and approved by the USDA, AMS, Cotton and Tobacco Program. All waivers requests must include:

1. A business case for not meeting the standard.

2. Why the computer system cannot meet the standard.

3. The estimated timeline for upgrading the system (software, hardware, etc.) so that it can meet the standard.

C.4.6. The minimum Information Technology Standards for new instrument purchases as of 03/23/2006 are listed below:

• Operating System: MS Windows 10 or newer

• Processor: Intel Core i5 (Quad Core)

• Memory: 8GB (as 1 DIMM)

• Monitor: 17" Touchscreen Monitor

• Hard Drive: 250GB SSD minimum

• USB Ports: 2 accessible

• Optical Drive: 8X DVD +/-RW (one external drive per five computers)

• Ethernet: 10/100 integrated or equivalent

• Sound Card: Plug-and-play compatible

• Speakers: Generic or internal speakers

• Pointing Device: Keyboard touch pad

C.4.7 A Personal Computer, touchscreen monitor, keyboard, swing arm, and barcode scanner, RFID Read/Writer shall be provided on the C/T module.

C.4.8 A “waterless type”, dust and moisture proof keyboard shall be provided on each C/T module. Each key of the keyboard shall be the size of a standard typewriter key.

C.4.9 Vendor supplied application software shall not interfere with the Windows Operating

System’s ability to perform normal windows operating functions/utility operations or impede operations of other windows applications that may be loaded or currently in use.

C.4.10 The vendor shall create various levels of user access to the instrument software variables and settings. Those levels shall be defined as Operator, Line Supervisor, Technician, and Shift Supervisor.

C.4.11 The vendor supplied application software shall transmit a status file that shall adhere to a format distributed by the USDA Cotton and Tobacco Program. This format will be provided within 10 days of the contract award date.

C.4.12 The instrument dependent constants (trash setup constants, motor positions, calibration constants, calibration standard values, evaluation standard values, etc.) shall be available at the technician and shift supervisor levels. Lot Limits, Offsets, Retest Bale

ID Removal capability, Calibration Standard values shall be available at the line supervisor level.

C.4.13 New application development shall be fourth- generation computer language or later.

C.4.14 The C/T module’s disk drives, USB Ports, CD-ROM drives shall be lockable to prevent unauthorized access. The operating software supplied by the Contractor at the time of delivery shall not exceed 50 percent of the computer’s processing and storage capability. Computer mountings shall be designed to facilitate ease of replacement of the instrument’s computer and other components. The computer’s case shall be designed to facilitate easy removal and replacement of internal component parts. The C/T module shall contain surge protection for the instrument’s personal computer and computer monitor to protect the instrument from power fluctuations.

C.4.15 The C/T module shall utilize two separate measurement heads each with its own measurement window. Each measurement window shall capture a 4 inch by 7 inch (28 in^2) sample image for color and trash measurements. The C/T module shall also utilize a standard cropping size for providing images comparable in size to current cotton classification instruments (approximately 9 in^2). The standard cropping size for trash shall not exceed 3.75 inches of the length measured and the width of the area measured shall not be less than 2.4 inches. For color measurements, the standard cropping size shall not exceed 3.75 inches for both the length and width dimensions. The cropped areas shall be centered within the large 4 inch by 7 inch area. The C/T module shall use the cropped areas for all calibrations and verifications utilizing the current USDA color and trash materials. For cotton sample testing, either the cropped area or the full area (4x7) can be selected for color and trash measurements.

C.4.16 All imaging areas shall provide balanced/consistent results across the measurement field.

C.4.17 For initial setup, the C/T module shall be capable of calibration from a minimum of five

(5) to a maximum of ninety (90) USDA cotton color biscuits for the calibration of color.

When placed in cotton calibration mode, the operator will enter the number of cotton color biscuits to be used for calibration. All calibration routines shall prompt the operator when to place each standard cotton sample over the measurement windows.

The C/T module shall also be capable of calibration to five (5) mounted USDA calibration tiles (white, yellow, gray, brown and central) for color Rd and color +b and the USDA trash calibration tile for total percent area and total particle count. The USDA 920 dot trash tile shall be used to verify the size of the trash measurement region for the 9 in^2 cropped area. Proper trash region size is verified by counting 920 dots +/- 10.) The C/T module shall also be capable of trash calibration to 12 “cotton-under-glass” trash tiles for percent area trash and particle count. All calibration routines shall prompt the operator when to place each standard specimen (tile or cotton) over the measurement windows. Upon completion of any calibration, the instrument shall instantly make calibration adjustments and display the calibration results on the operator screen.

C.4.18 The C/T module shall require centering of all USDA calibration/verification materials over the measurement window. Current USDA materials are not designed to cover a large window area. Therefore, the C/T module will have a designated measurement area in the center of the window for calibration/verification use. Area not covered by the

USDA material, will not be measured in calibration mode. The C/T module will use either placement marks or a template to guide the correct placement of the calibration materials. The C&T Program shall provide the vendor with samples of calibration and evaluation materials for proper positioning.

C.4.19 C/T modules shall include a bar code reader at the sample identification entry station to determine bale identification. The bar code tag may require orientation for reading.

The scanner shall read Code-A-Bar, Code 39, or Code 128, subset B and subset C type bar codes based upon industry standard. Bar code type discrimination shall be done automatically and immediately by the scanner. The scanner shall recognize and read bar code without any other actuation needed. The reader shall accurately accomplish its task in one pass of the card across the scanner, 99% of the time for properly printed and non-damaged cards. Neither pencil-type wand scanners nor slot-type bar code readers are acceptable. Comparable to the current Cognex model in use by C&T.

C.4.20 Instrument software shall be programmed to monitor sample movement through the

C/T module until the point of eject. The C/T module shall integrate read/write capability utilizing RFID equipment such that sample ID information can be read from the RFID tag on the container at the point of sample ejection to verify that the sample being delivered by the C/T module is placed in the correct container (see attached drawing).

C.4.21 The instruments shall allow for keyboard or touchscreen, (here in referred to as keyboard, but meaning both) entry of bale identification data. If keyboard entry is necessary, two separate keyboard entries will be required for each sample, with the two keyboard entries compared by the instrument’s computer to insure that they are identical first keyboard entry will not be displayed on the instrument’s screen display while the second keyboard entry is being made.

C.4.22 The C/T module operation main screen, (e.g. System Testing), shall display the mode

(e.g., Form 1 and futures etc.), instrument number, Supervisor Number, Cotton Type and Operator number on the screen display at all times.

C.4.23 The C/T module shall interface with USDA’s NonStop system using RJ-45 connector port and shall have capability for implementation with TCP/IP communication. C/T modules shall allow the display of messages from the NonStop computer on each C/T module’s screen display. Output record shall be produced for each sample classed. All output records shall be in the formats specified by the government 60 days prior to the time of delivery.

C.4.24 C/T modules shall be equipped with the necessary software to provide the capability to utilize manual or automatic external offset adjustments for color Rd and color +b, so that all instruments can be adjusted to the same color test level. The software shall also have the capability to use manual only external slope adjustments for trash percent area, so that all instruments can be adjusted to the same test level. Offset and slope adjustments will be configured in such a way that they will not apply to the calibration mode of the instruments. The instrument shall be capable of maintaining different offsets for each operating mode (e.g. Form 1, 8x8, QA, etc.) and each type of cotton (Upland, Pima). In addition to being able to manually set the color offsets, the instruments shall also be equipped with the necessary software to provide the capability to calculate and apply automatic offset adjustments for Rd, and +b measurements based on the difference from a standard known value on mounted QMP central tiles. The option shall be provided to choose between automatic offsets and manual offsets. The Auto-Offset shall have a “Zero Offset” Button to enable quick removal of all calculated offset data. The Auto-Offset shall be selectable from the Configuration Menu and shall calculate and display the Auto-Offsets when a Function key is pressed. The actual Auto-Offset will always be calculated, but only be applied when the Configuration Automatic Offset Check Box is checked. Individual fiber properties shall also have a “zero offset” button to enable reset of individual fiber property auto-offsets. The table below enumerates the maximum allowable offset for each fiber property.

C.4.25 The C/T module shall have internal color and trash calibration references sealed inside the

C/T heads. These calibration references shall supplement the USDA external color and trash tile calibration materials and procedures currently used. Each time a C/T measurement is made in system testing, the internal calibration references will be measured. The option to have color auto-offsets adjusted with the internal color references or the external QMP tiles after each measurement shall be provided. As with the QMP color tile check, maximum limits will apply. For trash, the internal trash reference will provide data that will display an out of tolerance message when the internal trash reference is reading outside of the set tolerances.

Measurement Maximum Offset Limit Color Rd +/-1.0 units Color +b +/- 0.8 units Trash % Area +/- 0.1 percent (as a multiplier - 0.90 - 1.10 of the measurement)

C.4.26 Software shall be provided with each C/T module that allows the C&T Program to set side limits (applied to measurement differences between the C/T heads) for C/T module measurements and allows re-testing of samples having readings outside set limits.

C.4.27 The C/T module shall have an independent power switch. All electrical power components, power strips, power supplies, etc., shall be designed and mounted to prevent disconnection under normal operating conditions. The use of tape, wire cable ties, or other temporary solutions, to secure connections is not acceptable. No interconnecting connections between or within cabinets/frames will be routed on the floor.

C.4.28 The C/T module operational software shall be equipped with password protection for entrance to screens involving calibration values, operating limits, offsets, or procedural parameters. This password protection will allow only authorized personnel to enter into these menus.

C.4.29 Evaluation Mode: The ability will be provided to enable manual sample placement and retrieval at each sample imaging point. Independent operation of each imaging point will be provided. Data will be written to a local file and transmitted to the Non-Stop host computer.

Sample tray movement can be disabled in this mode.

C.4.30 All C/T modules shall be configured to an intranet system so that parameters can be observed and changed from a single monitoring point or control center. Communication from the control center to each unit will be wired. All necessary hardware and software to set up the control center will be the responsibility of the vendor. This solicitation shall include two such control centers to be installed in facilities at USDA’s discretion. The control center shall be portable and easy to set up in the event that C/T Modules are relocated to other facilities.

Information that can be downloaded from all C/T Modules shall include but not limited to;

status files, log files, and configuration file submenus. Information that can be uploaded to all units shall include, but not limited to; configuration file submenus variables, build/firmware install/updates, security/antivirus installs and updates, all module testing and calibration setup tolerances and setup references. The system shall have the capability of communicating with individually selected C/T Modules or all C/T Modules on the system.

C.5 C/T MODULE:

C.5.1 The C/T Module shall be a closed cabinet construction with the overall physical dimensions of the frame shall not exceed 42” in width, 42” in depth, and table top height of 37”. The tray top height shall be 41”.

C.5.2 Operator and supervisor numbers are required before entry is granted into C/T System

Testing mode. The operator number, supervisor number and C/T module number shall be displayed on the system testing screen at all times. The C/T modules shall have the option of entering either numbers or passwords for the entry of the operator and supervisor number. If passwords are used, each password will be linked to a number supplied by USDA. The password file shall be a separate file which contains only operator, supervisor, and technician numbers and passwords.

C.5.3 C/T modules shall be designed so that all doors, lids, access panels, etc., which access dangerous moving machine parts must remain closed while the C/T modules are in an operations mode. The C/T units shall have the necessary covers, locks, etc. to provide protection from moving parts while interacting with the C/T module.

C.5.4 Sample containment dimensions shall be 16” in length and 5” in width. It shall be configured for the containment of two adjacent samples. Each side of the sample must be contained in such a manner to ensure proper containment for proper sample delivery and measurements to be performed correctly. If a tray is utilized for sample containment, it shall allow for a minimum 4” x 7” cutout to allow for the color/trash measurement. The samples must be located on the table top with the 5” dimension towards the edge and center of the frame. The front edge of the tray must be no more than 3” from the outside edge of the overall frame.

(See attached drawing)

C.5.5 The table top must be a smooth metal or similar surface which will transport the samples to each position to resist any tagging cotton.

C.5.6 Imaging sensors shall be located in position 3.

C.5.7 The rotation of the sample containers will be clockwise or counter-clockwise depending on the location of the C/T module relative to the USDA container (see attached drawing).

Sample shall be automatically ejected from position 4 into the conveyor system.

C.5.8 Sample ejection into USDA container: The C/T module shall deliver the tested sample into the USDA container. The sample must be completely placed into the USDA container. No portion of the sample can hang over any side of the container.

C.5.9 4” locking casters shall be attached for mobility purposes and must provide stability when locked into place.

C.5.10 All corners must have a rubber bumper.

C.5.11 When a tile or tile holder is inserted into the C/T module, the gap between the tile/holder and the long dimension tray sides shall not exceed 1/16". The tile/tile holding devises, when positioned at the measurement windows, shall not be off-center by more than 1/16th.

C.5.12 C/T modules shall operate at a cycle time equal to or less than 12 seconds. One cycle equals acquisition of four (4) 28-square-inch images (two per each half of the sample).The cycle time is measured from the start button to the ready signal. The cycle time shall be the completion of all processes.

C.5.13 Color shall be measured by illuminating a sample of cotton and measuring the percent color reflectance (Rd) and color yellowness (+b). Color results will be reported in Rd and +b to the nearest one-tenth unit. C/T modules shall allow color and trash calibration checks while in production mode without changing menu screens. LED lighting shall be used as the source of illumination for color and trash measurements. C/T modules shall be designed to provide minimal shock to color heads when color measurements are made. The imaging heads that house the measurement components shall be dust proof. The housing of the imaging components (includes illumination, electronics and sensors) shall be completely enclosed and sealed. Color head hand pressure shall have its own independently adjustable air pressure regulator with a direct reading gauge near the point of adjustment. The system will also include a force transducer to measure color head hand pressure. This reading will be displayed in the Diagnostic menu. Color head hand pressure shall be adjustable and capable of achieving ten (10) psi of compression force on the cotton sample when the sample is being measured. Measurements will not be taken until the minimum compression force has been achieved.

C.5.14 The C/T module in automatic mode will be started by pressing a button or upon successful scan of the PBI card selected by the Operator. Upon completion of testing the C/T module will transmit the test data for the bale to the NonStop host computer. Additionally, the C/T module will send a “completed” signal to an external conveyance/control system.

C.5.15 Percent area will be reported as a percentage to the nearest one-tenth, except values greater than 5.0 will be reported as 5.0. C/T modules in maintenance mode shall display and/or output the percent area of trash measurement to the nearest one-hundredth of a percent.

C.5.16 The trash particle count will be measured by the “cluster” method and reported to the nearest whole number. A cluster is defined as a group of trash pixels connected on the same or adjacent scan lines. A single piece of trash, regardless of its size, will have a cluster count of one. C/T modules shall provide the option of either displaying or outputting this measurement, or both. The trash meter shall have the ability within the software to detect incomplete window coverage with the additional ability for adjustment of the detection parameters. The software will require a retest of the sample for both color and trash when incomplete window coverage parameters are exceeded.

C.5.17 The C/T module shall be designed in such a way that the sample presentation is conducive to both manual and automated sample delivery to the C/T module. The minimum vertical clearance space between digital imaging heads shall be 8 inches in height.

C.5.18 The C/T module shall have a maximum cycle time of 12 seconds. The demonstrated capability of testing shall be a minimum of 2,000 samples per work shift, based on 7 hours and 20 minutes of actual operation. The C/T modules shall be evaluated for production while interfaced to a Nonstop server owned by the government, with the number of complete records accepted by the server being the official record of each day’s production. Samples used for volume testing will be representative of the normal U.S. crop’s quality distribution.

Offers received for C/T modules requiring more than one (1) C/T operator and with production rates of less than 2,000 samples per work shift will not be considered for award.

C.5.19 The C/T module shall also be evaluated for quality measurement data with QMP materials at the beginning and throughout the production evaluation testing (7 hours and 20 minutes). The QMP materials which are for evaluation will require central placement over the measurement window. The C&T Program shall provide the vendor with a sample of calibration and evaluation materials for proper positioning. Drift from beginning to end must not exceed:

0.2 for Rd and 0.1 for +b

0.05 for percent area and 2 for particle count

C.5.20 Each C/T module’s heat output shall not exceed 1,000 BTU per hour and each module’s compressed air requirement shall not exceed 3.0 CFM at a pressure not to exceed 100 pounds per square inch.

C.5.21 The module shall not exceed a noise level of 40 decibels that will be measured by the USDA at the operator position at a height not to exceed 5 feet from the floor and a 1 foot radius while standing at the operator position of the module.

C.5.22 Each C/T module will have a sample testing (System Testing) mode, (Module Testing) mode, Diagnostics mode and Calibration mode.

C.6. ANTIVIRUS PROTECTION:

The vendor shall supply, install, and update virus protection software for all computers in this solicitation. Any periodic updates will be distributed by the vendor to all offices that operate these C/T Modules.

C.7 C/T MODULE CALIBRATION:

C.7.1 The C/T modules shall be capable of being calibrated to the units shown below:

Color Reflectance: In percent to one decimal place.

Color Yellowness: In +b units to one decimal place.

Trash Area: In percent area to two decimal places.

Particle Count: In number of particles to the nearest whole number.

C.7.2 The C/T modules shall be calibrated to and USDA color and trash tiles within the tolerances listed below for the corresponding quality factor:

C.7.2.1 Color reflectance and color yellowness (Rd and +b): C/T modules shall calibrate to within + 0.4 for Rd and within + 0.4 for +b of the USDA values on all five of the USDA tiles. After calibration is complete, the central tile must read within + 0.4 for Rd and within + 0.4 for +b of the USDA values on this tile.

C.7.2.2 Trash meter Calibration Check: The C/T modules shall check calibration to within + 0.02 percent area and within + 1 particle count of the USDA values on the USDA calibration check tile. Check calibration results that are not within these tolerances will be highlighted on the calibration screen.

C.8 USDA PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATION AND METHODOLOGY FOR FIRST

ARTICLE TESTING INSTRUMENTS AND ACCEPTANCE TESTING OF C/T

PRODUCTION MODULES:

C.8.1 The methodology and performance specifications established by AMS for evaluating the C/T modules ability for measuring color and trash of cotton are outlined in the following paragraphs. The Cotton and Tobacco Program shall perform the acceptance testing of individual C/T modules.

C.8.2 The Contractor shall deliver C/T modules to not more than two Cotton and Tobacco

Program offices for evaluation as agreed upon by the Cotton and Tobacco Program and the Contractor. Upon satisfactory completion of performance evaluation, the vendor shall deliver accepted C/T modules to locations specified by the USDA, set up and ready for use, at no additional cost to the government. However, the contractor is responsible for only one move from the office(s) that acceptance has been performed to no more than two locations in total.

C.8.3 The Contractor shall have at least one customer engineer on site during the entire evaluation process.

C.9 METHODOLOGY:

C.9.1 Each C/T module to be evaluated will be operated in a production environment.

C.9.2 Universal colorimeter check sample boxes, cotton samples or photographic images mounted under 1/16-inch clear glass, will be used. The C/T modules being evaluated shall be calibrated to USDA colorimeter tiles and checked to a USDA calibration check tile (trash meter).

C.9.3 USDA reserves the right to suspend further evaluation of any C/T module that fails 4 times on any of the performance tests until the contractor submits documentation (C/T module Evaluation Log) of mechanical, software and/or procedural changes made to correct the problem. Each C/T module shall have a C/T module Evaluation Log provided by USDA.

C.9.4 Once a C/T module has passed any of the evaluation criteria, no parts shall be removed from that C/T module without USDA approval.

C.9.5 Each imaging sensor within the C/T module shall be evaluated independently.

C.9.5 Universal Colorimeter Check Sample Boxes

Two consecutive tests, each consisting of eight 2-specimen colorimeter tests will be made on each sample of a 12-sample check box, supplied by the Cotton and Tobacco Program.

Samples shall be rotated 180 degrees after each reading. Using the data generated, means and standard deviations will be calculated for each of the tests. The C/T module shall be calibrated before each test.

C.9.6 USDA Trash meter Cotton Samples and Photographic Images Mounted

Under Glass.

C.9.6.1 Two consecutive tests, each consisting of eight 2-specimen trash meter percent area of trash and particle count tests will be run on twelve cotton samples or photographic images mounted under glass, supplied by the Cotton and Tobacco Program. Materials shall be rotated 180 degrees after each reading. The USDA shall establish values for these materials. Using the data generated, means and standard deviations will be calculated for each test. The C/T module shall be calibrated before each test.

C.9.6.2 For each of the two consecutive tests, the average difference in color reflectance (Rd) between the observed values and established values of the 12 colorimeter calibration check box samples shall not exceed +/- 1.0 percentage points for each sample. The overall average standard deviation shall be no greater than 0.7 percentage point for the 12 samples.

C.9.6.3 For each of the two consecutive tests, the average difference in color yellowness (+b) between the observed values and established values of the 12 colorimeter calibration check box samples shall not exceed +/- 0.5 units for each sample. The overall standard deviation shall be no greater than 0.3 units for the twelve samples.

C.9.7 Trash meter Cotton Samples and Photographic Images Mounted Under

Glass.

C.9.7.1 For each of the two consecutive tests, the average percent area of trash and particle count for each sample shall not exceed the following:

Sample Range Area Sample Range Count Percent Area Tolerance Count Tolerance

0 - 0.34 +/- 0.02 0 - 5 +/- 1

0.35 - 0.54 +/- 0.04 6 - 15 +/- 2

0.55 - 0.84 +/- 0.06 16 - 20 +/- 3

0.85 - 1.14 +/- 0.08 21 - 30 +/- 4

1.15 - 1.74 +/- 0.10 31 - 40 +/- 5

1.75 - 2.24 +/- 0.12 41 - 50 +/- 6

51 - 65 +/- 7

66 - 90 +/- 10

C.9.7.2 For each of two consecutive tests, the overall standard deviation for percent area of trash shall not exceed 0.04 for the twelve samples and the overall standard deviation for particle count shall not exceed 6 count for the twelve samples.

C.9.8 Cycle Test

C.9.8.1 Cycle testing shall consist of performing the following procedure on the module one time. The module shall run their cycle test separately, and must meet or exceed the standards as listed below:

• C/T - A minimum of two specimens from each of the two halves of the sample representing the bale.

• The C/T module shall outturn 570 samples within a 2 hour time period.

C.10 OVERALL PERFORMANCE

C.10.1 Performance testing (volume) shall consist of performing the following procedure on two consecutive days (one time each day):

C.10.2 The C/T module shall test a minimum of 2,000 samples in 7 hours and 20 minutes of actual operation. The module shall be calibrated each day before beginning the performance test and no more than one additional time during the performance test for that day.

C.10.3 USDA has the option to require all or a portion (not less than 20%) of the module to pass the overall 2 full day performance test at each evaluation location. At a minimum, all modules not performing the 2 full day performance test, shall pass a half day volume test for 2 consecutive days consisting of the known-values test while producing 1,000 samples during 3 hours and 40 minutes.

C.11 C/T MODULE LIFE:

The C/T module life shall be a minimum of 96 months.

C.12 SUPPLIES:

Maintenance charges shall include all consumable operational supplies, including filters, cleaning brushes, and other supplies not specifically mentioned.

C.13 INSTALLATION OF EQUIPMENT:

After evaluation, C/T modules will be installed, ready for use, at USDA, AMS, Cotton and Tobacco Program sites specified by the Cotton and Tobacco Program. Delivery sites shall be specified upon completion of evaluation of the C/T modules. The contractor shall be responsible for the shipping costs of the instruments from the evaluation site to the designated cotton classing office.

C.14 TRAINING:

The Contractor shall provide operation and maintenance/technician training at a maximum of 2 different sites for up to 15 USDA personnel.

C.15 MANUALS AND PUBLICATIONS:

Each C/T module shall have the operator and technical service manuals installed on each C/T module hard drive in Adobe PDF format upon delivery. The contractor shall also provide a master CD containing all of the C/T module’s documentation (e.g.

operator manual, technical service manual, training aids, Service Bulletins, etc.). The contractor shall provide updates to the manuals in Adobe PDF within 30 days of the changes on CD. The technical service manual shall include the following sections:

Theory of Operation, Sub-system Operation Section including block diagrams, flow charts and electrical schematics; Maintenance and Calibration Section including component removal and installation procedures, adjustment/alignment procedures with applicable mechanical drawings and illustrations; Troubleshooting and Diagnostic Software Section; Computer Section; Software Section; and an Index Section. The service manual shall only pertain to USDA C/T modules. All documents and manuals shall reflect the current wiring/configuration of the C/T module being delivered.

C.16 MAINTENANCE:

The Contractor shall provide full service maintenance including all parts, labor, supplies, etc. necessary to maintain the equipment in good operating condition.

Maintenance service shall not include electrical work external to the equipment or repair of damage resulting from accident, neglect, misuse, failure of electrical power or air conditioning or humidity control, or causes other than ordinary use.

Maintenance of Government-owned C/T modules acquired under this contract shall be available at the rate(s) established in Section B for 60 months beginning the 1st day of the 13th month from the date of acceptance, the expiration of 12 -month full service warranty period, and effective date of purchase conversion. This extended maintenance may be continued if the option periods are exercised.

Maintenance shall be provided, without additional cost to the Cotton and Tobacco Program, for any and all C/T modules acquired. Optional maintenance of Government-owned C/T modules acquired under this contract shall be available at the rate(s) established in Section B for 96 months beginning the 1st day of the 13th month from the date of acceptance, the expiration of 12 -month full service warranty period, and effective date of purchase conversion.

The Cotton and Tobacco Program reserves the right to operate or relocate C/T modules at any Cotton and Tobacco Program classing facility nationwide without incurring additional maintenance charges. The monthly maintenance rate shall not include the following relocation expenses:

Inspection and Set-up, Packing and Unpacking, Shipping Expense and Employee Per Diem.

The principal period of maintenance, expressed in days and hours of the week are Monday through Saturday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, local time where C/T modules are located, for 8 hours per day including government holidays. Facilities requiring maintenance are located in the Eastern, Central, and Pacific Time zones.

The Contractor shall receive electronic orders via the internet for repair parts during the principal period of maintenance. In addition, the Contractor shall provide same day shipment of those parts ordered prior to 3:00 p.m. EST Monday through Saturday, including government holidays for the entire calendar year. Parts ordered after 3:00 p.m. EST will be shipped the next day Monday through Saturday, including government holidays for the entire calendar year. The Contractor shall use the fastest available method to ship replacement components upon notification of a malfunctioning component. If the requested parts are not shipped as previously specified, the USDA shall enforce the maintenance downtime credits as specified in Section G3. Exceptions to the same or next day shipment will be at the approval of the requesting office.

All replacement parts whether new or refurbished shall have a decal affixed to the part with the service technician number/initials and the date the part was refurbished/inspected. This decal will serve as a guarantee to the government that the part has been inspected and certified as fully operational and ready for installation.

The Contractor shall provide two (2) one (1) week C/T modules Technician training classes before the second season of C/T modules operations. The government will inform the contractor of the training locations.

Repairs shall be performed after notification that equipment and/or operating software is inoperative. The Contractor shall provide the Government with a designated point of contact and make arrangements to enable its maintenance representative to receive immediate notification. Components may, at the Contractor’s discretion, be permanently exchanged for malfunctioning components. Malfunctioning components shall be returned to the Contractor within 4 calendar days. Freight expense to send malfunctioning components to the Contractor shall be paid by the Government. Freight expense from the Contractor to Cotton and Tobacco Program site of malfunction shall be paid by the Contractor. The contractor shall arrange to be on-site within 48 hours of notification by USDA, after it is determined that contractor on-site support is required.

Section D - PACKAGING AND MARKING

No Clauses for Section D

Section E - INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

E.1. FAR Clauses Incorporated By Reference

E.1.1. 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

This contract incorporates one or more clauses by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. Also, the full text of a clause may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es): www.acquisition.gov

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (48 CHAPTER 1) CLAUSES

NUMBER TITLE

52.246-2 INSPECTION OF SUPPLIES (AUG 1996)

52.246-4 INSPECTION OF SERVICES (AUG 1996)

52.246-16 RESPONSIBIBILITY FOR SUPPLIES (APR 1984)

E.2 AGAR 452.204-70 INQUIRIES (FEB 1988)

Inquiries and all correspondence concerning this solicitation should be submitted in writing to Beverly Brown, Contracting Officer. Offerors should contact only the Contracting Officer issuing the solicitation about any aspect of this requirement prior to contract award.

E.3 AGAR 452.237-71 PRE-BID/PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE (FEB 1988)

(a) The Government is planning a pre-bid/pre-proposal conference, during which potential offerors may obtain a better understanding of the work required.

(b) Offerors are encouraged to submit all questions in writing at least five (5) days prior to the conference. Questions will be considered at any time prior to or during the conference;

however, offerors will be asked to confirm verbal questions in writing. Subsequent to the conference, an amendment to the solicitation containing an abstract of the questions and answers, and a list of attendees, will be disseminated.

(c) In order to facilitate conference preparations, it is requested that the person named on the

Standard Form 33 of this solicitation be contacted and advised of the number of persons who will attend.

(d) The Government assumes no responsibility for any expense incurred by an offeror prior to contract award.

(e) Offerors are cautioned that, notwithstanding any remarks or clarifications given at the conference, all terms and conditions of the solicitation remain unchanged unless they are changed by amendment to the solicitation. If the answers to conference questions, or any http://www.acquisition.gov/ solicitation amendment, create ambiguities, it is the responsibility of the offeror to seek clarification prior to submitting an offer.

(f) The conference will be held:

Date: October 23, 2018 Time: 9:00 am –11:00 am central time Location: USDA, AMS, Cotton and Tobacco Programs 3275 Appling Road Memphis, TN 38133

A teleconference number will be available. Please e-mail the contracting officer at

BeverlyS.Brown@ams.usda.gov for additional information and if you plan to attend. The Contracting Officer will send you the conference call information. There is a limitation of two individuals per firm who may attend the conference in-person.

mailto:BeverlyS.Brown@ams.usda.gov

Section F - DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

F.l FAR 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

This contract incorporates one or more clauses by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. Also, the full text of a clause may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es):

https://www.acquisition.gov/

I. FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (48 CFR CHAPTER 1) CLAUSES

NUMBER TITLE DATE

52.242-17 GOVERNMENT DELAY OF WORK APR 1984

52.242-15 STOP-WORK ORDER AUG 1989

F.2 AGAR 452.247-70 DELIVERY LOCATION (FEB 1988)

Shipment of deliverables shall be to:

USDA, AMS, Cotton and Tobacco Programs 3275 Appling Road Memphis, TN 38133

F.3 AGAR 452.211-74 Period of Performance (FEB 1988)

The period of performance for this contract is from date award through 96 months. (This timeframe is subject to change at contract award.)

F.4 AGAR 452.246-70 INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE (FEB 1988)

(a) The Contracting Officer or the Contracting Officer's duly authorized representative will inspect and accept the supplies and/or services to be provided under this contract.

(b) Inspection and acceptance will be performed at:

3275 Appling Road Memphis, TN 38133

F.6 INVENTORY:

The Contractor shall provide AMS with an inventory of all module components and all accessory equipment, including manuals, at the time instruments are delivered. AMS shall verify and acknowledge receipt of all equipment and manuals delivered. The packing list from the shipping company is not acceptable.

https://www.acquisition.gov/

Section G - CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

G.1 Contract Administration

(a) The Contracting Officer is the only person authorized to approve changes in any of the requirements of this contract. This authority remains solely with the Contracting Officer. In the event the contract effects any change at the direction of any person other than the Contracting Officer, the changes will be considered to have been made without authority and no adjustment will be made in the contract price to cover any increase in costs incurred as a result thereof.

(b) The Contractor shall designate one individual by letter to be contacted during the period of the contract for prompt contract administration.

G.2 Invoices and Payment Information

Invoices shall be entered into the Invoice Processing Platform (www.ipp.gov) and a copy emailed to the Contracting Officer’s Representative.

G.3 Contract Administration

A. Contracting Officer: All Contract related issues shall be addressed with the following contact:

Beverly Brown

100 Riverside Parkway Suite 101 Fredericksburg, VA 22406 BeverlyS.Brown@ams.usda.gov Phone: 540-361-1126 Fax: 901-384-3021

B. Contracting Officer Technical Representative (COTR) - These contacts are the only persons authorized to interact with the contractor under this contract for technical related issues:

TO BE DETERMINED AT TIME OF CONTRACT AWARD

G.4 COTR’s Delegated…