Attachment 2 - VR Arc Welder Brand Name Justification Letter.pdf

DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE

AIR EDUCATION AND TRAINING COMMAND

361st Training Squadron

Sheppard AFB, Texas

4 May 2023

MEMORANDUM FOR 82 CONS/PKA

FROM: 361 TRS/CC

SUBJECT: Brand Name Requirements Justification

1. Description of the Supplies/Services: The AugmentedArc augmented reality welding system from Miller Electric offers a highly realistic multiprocessing welding simulation solution for technical training. For beginner to advanced-level weld students, the AugmentedArc system simulates multiple welding processes, blending real-world and computer-generated images into a unique, augmented reality environment.

2. Efforts to Obtain Competition: We made every effort to obtain competition for our welding training needs. As part of our market research, we explored all available options and sources of equipment and training solutions that could meet our requirements.

Despite our extensive efforts, the Miller AugmentedArc Augmented Reality Welding System was the only augmented reality welder that was comparable to what we were seeking, in terms of both features and price. The Lincoln VRTEX 360 Virtual Reality Welding Training Simulator was the only other option we found, but it was significantly more expensive than the AugmentedArc system.

We did not identify any other companies that could provide the exact product or service we needed, and we did not issue a source sought synopsis to find additional sources due to the limited number of comparable options available on the market.

While we would have preferred to obtain more competition, we believe that our market research was thorough and comprehensive, and we made every effort to identify and evaluate all potential sources to meet our requirements.

3. Market Research: Based on our market research, the Miller AugmentedArc Augmented Reality Welding System is the best choice for our organization's welding training needs compared to the Lincoln VRTEX 360 virtual reality welding training simulator. We conducted an extensive analysis of available sources and equipment options, including non-developmental items that could be modified to meet our requirements, and determined that the AugmentedArc system was the most effective solution. As a result, we are confident that this purchase will preclude the necessity for future brand name acquisitions of the same supplies/services.

4. Other Factors: In addition to the market research and efforts to obtain competition described above, there are other factors that support the use of the Miller AugmentedArc Augmented Reality Welding System for our organization's welding training needs.

Specifically, we have found that technical data packages, specifications, and engineering descriptions of suitable alternative brands have not been developed or are not available for welding training systems that use augmented reality technology.

While there are other welding training simulators available on the market, the AugmentedArc system offers unique capabilities and features that cannot be replicated by other brands or products. These features include real-time feedback on welding technique, the ability to simulate welding in various environments and situations, and the option to customize training modules based on the user's skill level and needs.

Given the lack of technical data packages or suitable alternative brands available, we are confident that the Miller AugmentedArc Augmented Reality Welding System is the best choice for our organization's welding training needs.

5. A Statement Of The Actions, If Any, The Agency May Take To Remove Or Overcome Any Barriers To Competition Before Making Subsequent Acquisitions For The Supplies Or Services Required. The Air Force will continue to conduct research and review literature from industry-leading manufacturers and suppliers to source augmented reality welding systems that are compatible with Air Force Metals Technology Requirements and provide the best value to the Government.

JAMES B. HEDGEPETH, Maj, USAF Commander

1st Ind, 82 CONS/PKA

The above justification is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Contracting Officer

2d Ind, 82 CONS/PKA

Approved/Disapproved

Chief