Limited Source Justification - 80TECH24Q0047 PanelViews - Copy_Redacted.pdf

Rationale:

This requirement is for the Allen Bradley brand PanelViews with both modified and non-modified electromagnetic interference (EMI) for Kennedy Space Center (KSC). The PanelView Plus 7 standard terminals are operator interface device and this procurement is essential for replacing existing end-of-life units and ensuring compatibility with Mobile Launch 2 (ML2). ML2 is the launch tower designated to support the Artemis IV rocket, which is physically attached to the ML2.

The ML2 is responsible for transporting the Artemis rocket from the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) to the launch pad, as well as housing all necessary umbilicals for the rocket's launch operations. The PanelViews will facilitate ML2 control capabilities from remote sites, including the Launch Control Center (LCC), Mobile Platform Processing Facility (MPPF), and VAB. The Panelviews also serve as display screens that connect to the Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) and supporting infrastructure, functioning as the human-machine interface that enables users to manage the system and network effectively. The acquisition of the PanelView hardware and components is critical for enabling ML2 command and control functionalities.

The Kennedy Ground Control Subsystem (KGCS) constitutes the network infrastructure that connects the ML2 and the Artemis rocket to command and control locations, such as the LCC and VAB. The acquisition of the brand-name Allen Bradley PanelViews hardware and components are essential to ensure effective technical support and maintenance of the KGCS hardware and software. The KGCS network predominantly utilizes Rockwell/Allen Bradley brand hardware, and the introduction of other brands would result in compatibility issues within the current infrastructure. It would also result in significant delays associated with software re-development and regression testing. These delays would affect the high-performance standards necessary for enhanced security, rapid scalability, and streamlined maintenance and management. Additionally, it would require a complete overhaul of the existing KGCS infrastructure at KSC, which could take up to over ten years and incur costs exceeding the current value of the current infrastructure

It is critical the brand name hardware and components operate seamlessly with the existing Rockwell/Allen Bradley components to facilitate a smooth transition without interrupting program operations. Lastly, any new hardware must be compatible with the existing Rockwell/Allen Bradley ControlLogix platform, as only these products can effectively support the ongoing PLC programs associated with the current components.

Determination by the contracting officer that the order represents the best value consistent with FAR 8.404(d):

Pursuant to FAR 8.404(d). Pricing. Supplies offered on the schedule are listed at fixed prices.

Services offered on the schedule are priced either at hourly rates, or at fixed price for performance of a specific task (eg., installation, maintenance and repair). GSA has already determined that the prices of supplies and fixed-priced services, and rates for services offered at hourly rates, under schedule contracts to be fair and reasonable. The Contracting Officer researched the prices of the hardware and compared it to the budgetary quote received and determined that the prices offered from GSA contract offers the best option to the Government.

Market Research:

Market research conducted determined that procuring the Brand name Allen-Bradly PanelViews hardware and components would be the best option to fill the Government’s requirement. The Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) is Rockwell Automation, Inc. Rockwell Automation provided an official letter that stated that Rexel is the single authorized value-added reseller to sell Allen-Bradley Panelviews in Melbourne, Florida where KSC is located. The authorized geographical reseller Rexel is currently listed as a distributor on GSA Federal Supply Services contract # GS-21F-0117W with prime contractor SupplyForce.com, LLC. SupplyForce is a Small Business and can ensure consistency with the currently utilized brand, thereby adhering to the safety standards set forth by the Agency.

Other Facts:

None

A statement of the actions, if any, the agency may take to remove or overcome any barriers that led to the restricted consideration before any subsequent acquisition for the supplies or services is made:

The Agency will continue to examine the market in the future for alternative solutions or new sources before executing any subsequent acquisitions for the same requirements.