MCC Automation & Robotics Equipment RFP 2025-03 rev 11.01.24.pdf

Middlesex Community College RFP MCC-2025-03 Automation and Robotics Equipment

Rev. 11.01.24

Middlesex Community College Request for Proposal # MCC-2025-03 Automation and Robotics Equipment

Issue Date:

November 5, 2024

Bid Deadline – Proposals Must Be Received By:

November 19, 2024 at 11:59 PM

RFP# 2025-03

Table of Contents

PART I - COLLEGE INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS TO VENDORS

1.1 GENERAL INFORMATION

1.2 SCOPE OF WORK

1.3 PROPOSAL DUE DATE

1.4 BID SCHEDULE

1.5 INSTRUCTIONS TO VENDORS

1.6 FORMAT FOR RESPONSE

PART II - GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

2.1 TERMS AND CONDITIONS

FORMS

Proposal Cover Page (Appendix A)

Statement of State Tax Compliance (Appendix B) Non-Collusion Certification (Appendix C)

PART I - COLLEGE INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS TO VENDORS

1.1 GENERAL INFORMATION

Middlesex Community College (MCC) enrolled its first-degree students in 1970. The annual enrollment is approximately over 11,700 credit students (on-campus, on-line and hybrid classes). The College’s primary service area is within the Middlesex County region in northeast Massachusetts. Operating in two campus locations, its original site in suburban Bedford and an urban campus in downtown Lowell, MCC is one of the largest community colleges in Massachusetts.

Middlesex Community College provides access to affordable education for a diverse community from all ethnic and economic backgrounds and identities, preparing individuals for success and lifelong learning. We promote academic excellence, provide workforce development opportunities, and empower all learners to become productive and socially responsible members of our local and global communities. To learn more about MCC, including the College’s mission, vision, values, and programs, visit www.middlesex.mass.edu.

1.2 SCOPE OF WORK

Middlesex Community College is seeking bids for Advanced Manufacturing Training Equipment in support of its efforts to provide Automation and Robotics workforce training and curriculum addressing credit programming needs. The bid package includes three separate requests. Bidders may elect to submit bids for all or some of the 3 requests. The equipment must be delivered to Middlesex Community College no later than May 1, 2025.

(BID1 - SFMTS)

The first and primary request is for bids on a Smart Factory Mechatronics Training System (BID1 - SFMTS) with Industrial Robot. The SFMTS must be an integrated system incorporating an industrial grade robot with all required components identified.

(BID2 - PTS)

MCC is also seeking bids in a second request for related portable training systems (BID2 - PTS) and components to enhance capability and enable off site training beyond the static primary SFMTS. MCC reserves the right to purchase any, all or none of the identified PTS.

(BID3 – OPT)

The third request (BID3 – OPT) is for optional training modules and equipment that support the fundamentals of automation and robotics separate from Bid Items 1 and 2.

This equipment will be used to train students, and the regional workforce, on the components, http://www.middlesex.mass.edu/ processes, and maintenance required of modern automated manufacturing facilities. All facility requirements and accessory specifications shall be provided to MCC by the selected vendor.

All anticipated costs for delivery, installation and training shall be identified separately and provided in the vendor bid package along with anticipated lead times for delivery.

Cost for software licenses and other curricular materials including virtual or simulated training should be identified as specific line items and listed as optional if not required for the functioning of the system.

Software required for system operation may be incorporated into system costs or listed separately. It is anticipated procurement will include all related training materials.

Bid 1 shall be awarded to a single vendor while MCC reserves the right to award components listed in Bids 2 and 3 to multiple vendors.

BID 1. Smart Factory Mechatronics Training System (SFMTS)

The SFMTS will comprise a multi-station automated manufacturing line that uses Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and networking technology to control and communicate with automated manufacturing process stations. Each station will contain its own PLC and can work in concert with the system or operate as a stand-alone training module.

One station within the SFMTS will incorporate an industrial grade robotic arm that also will function within or separate from the system. Each of the main stations of the Mechatronics System will incorporate a smart sensor or component for Smart Communication with the intent of demonstrating multiple technologies such as pneumatic/vacuum, ultrasonic, photoeye, stack light, electrical current, analog pressure, etc. The system will communicate between stations utilizing networking technology and can function as an example of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT). This also often referred to as Industry 4.0 representing the advancement of manufacturing technology to incorporate advanced communications and associated technology.

1. General Overview

MCC seeks a Smart Factory Mechatronics Training System designed for introductory and advanced training in Industry 4.0 technologies, integrating robotics, PLCs, sensors, IIoT, automated assembly, and smart manufacturing processes. A minimum 6-Axis industrial robot to provide hands-on robotics training shall be part of the integrated system. The system must be designed for both modular and fully integrated smart factory operation.

Curriculum with specific learning objectives must be included for each station within the modular system, and for the system as a whole. Instructor access to the multimedia and eLearning materials must be available for each instructor as well as program design personnel and include comprehensive courses and lab activities that align directly with the training equipment. Curriculum eLearning resources should support both self-paced and instructor-led training and include assessments that align with industry-recognized certifications. Curriculum should address both the electromechanical components and their function as well as communications, analytics and control within the IIOT framework (Industry 4.0).

2. System Components and Capabilities Sought (SFMTS)

The system shall include up to 8 interconnected stations, each simulating different aspects of manufacturing. These stations must be modular and able to operate as stand-alone units or integrated into a coordinated system. A single model PLC shall be selected for all stations. The ability to insert PC-based faults shall be listed as optional, if available.

An example 8 station configuration is provided below. Vendors must demonstrate equivalence and demonstrated application in terms of technical capabilities, anticipated learning objectives, and integrated function within the training system.

• Station 1: Inventory Feed Station

• Station 2: Gauging Station

• Station 3: Orientation-Processing Station

• Station 4: Sorting and Buffering Station

• Station 5: Servo Robot Assembly Station

Components:

• PLC (Allen-Bradley 870-AB53A or equivalent): Integrated for station control.

• Industrial Grade Robot

• Station 6: Torquing Station

• Station 7: Inventory Storage Station

• Station 8: Electro-Hydraulic Station

All associated hardware and software, including delivery, training, and installation costs must be identified.

BID 2. Portable Smart Factory Training Components (PTS)

1. General Overview MCC is seeking bids for two sets of portable training systems, one focused on the Smart Sensor Systems and associated data collection and the other on Pneumatic Systems and its operation and maintenance. All trainers must be sized and packaged for transport to/ from training sites as well as for appropriate storage. Components must be protected in a hard case with wheels for facilitated transport. Each system must include operations and instructor manuals and related materials.

2. System Components and Capabilities Sought (PTS)

BID 2 ITEM 1. Portable Smart Sensor Systems

The selected vendor(s) will deliver up to three (3) portable Smart Sensor training systems capable of introducing concepts and components of automation systems through hands-on and eLearning curriculum. These systems will provide hands-on access to the components described and may be supplemented by virtual example.

Multiple sensing mechanisms must be incorporated into the training system such as proximity, ultrasonic, condition monitoring and pressure sensors as well as linear transducers and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID).

Curriculum associated with the Smart Sensor System should represent a minimum of 8

– 10 classroom and off site hours. Anticipated areas of learning include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Industrial Internet of Things

2. Cloud Computing

3. Smart Photoelectric Sensor Configuration

4. Smart Sensor Configuration and Monitoring

5. Smart Condition Monitoring Sensors

6. Smart RFID Readers

BID 2 ITEM 2. Portable Pneumatic Training Systems

The selected vendor(s) will deliver up to five (5) portable Pneumatic Training Systems capable of introducing concepts, components and operation of pneumatic systems used in automated systems through hands-on and eLearning curriculum. These systems will provide hands-on access to the components described and may be supplemented by virtual example. MCC will consider different portable systems to evaluate for general operation and maintenance/ troubleshooting applicability if warranted. As such, MCC may elect to purchase different models of this class (Pneumatics) of portable training system.

The Portable Pneumatics Training System should include components and curriculum to address the following topics: Pneumatic Power Systems, Pneumatic Circuits, Pressure and Flow, Speed Control Circuits, Directional Control Valves, Air Logic, Pneumatic Maintenance, Schematics, Air Flow and Resistance, Flow Control Valves and Cam Valves. MCC will consider advanced troubleshooting systems that include Programmable Logic Controllers and the ability to electronically insert system faults.

BID 3. Optional Smart Factory Training Components (OPT)

MCC is seeking bids on related Smart Factory Training Components including:

BID3 – ITEM 1 Additional PLC Stations for Standalone Training (Optional)

Up to five (5) additional standalone PLC stations (870-AB53A. or equivalent) may be awards for independent PLC training. These standalone PLC stations will be equipped with appropriate educational software and will be used to train students on industrial PLC programming, configuration, and troubleshooting.

This flexibility allows for dedicated PLC training or seamless integration into the overall smart factory environment, enhancing the overall learning experience and providing comprehensive training in industrial control systems.

BID3 – ITEM 2 Additional Learning Systems (Advanced optional components) Smart Manufacturing Learning System Packages

MCC shall consider advanced training modules that focus on the configuration, integration, and use of industrial smart sensors in modern manufacturing environments.

Vendor must specify components of Sensor Learning Systems and associated curriculum indicating appropriate student level(s), hours of instruction, and available assessments. MCC shall also consider training modules pertaining to related Smart Industry components including, but not limited to, communication, Human Machine Interface, Identification, Data Analytics, and Artificial Intelligence.

1.3 PROPOSAL DUE DATE

The due date of this RFP is November 19, 2024 on or before 11:59 p.m., EST. Submissions must be emailed to purchasing@middlesex.edu on or before the due date. Proposals not submitted to the Purchasing Department at purchasing@middlesex.edu by the aforementioned deadline will not be considered for contract award.

All times listed are understood to be Eastern Standard Time (EST) unless otherwise noted.

Amended responses will not be considered unless they are received in the Purchasing Department on or before the above date and time.

The college will not consider or examine late responses.

MCC reserves the right to reject any or all bids, wholly or in part, to withdraw its Request for Proposal, and/or to modify and reissue a Request for Proposal in the future.

1.4 BID SCHEDULE

RFP Coordinator (All communication regarding the RFP must be made through the RFP Coordinator)

Name: Christina Kelley Title: Director of Procurement

Email: purchasing@middlesex.edu

RFP Issue Date November 5, 2024

Deadline for Written Bidder Questions (All questions must be received by the RFP Coordinator identified above by):

November 11, 2024 no later than 2:00 p.m., EST mailto:purchasing@middlesex.edu mailto:purchasing@middlesex.edu

Deadline for Responses by MCC November 13, 2024

Bids Due (Proposals must be received by Purchasing Department by):

November 19, 2024 no later than 11:59 p.m., EST.

Proposals must be submitted electronically to the following address: purchasing@middlesex.edu

Anticipated Bid Award December 3, 2024

1.5 INSTRUCTIONS TO VENDORS

Examination of the Document: Bidders are responsible for examining the solicitation documents and any addenda issued to become informed to all conditions that might in any way affect cost or performance of any work performed. Should the bidder find discrepancies in or omissions from the solicitation documents or should their intent or meaning appear unclear, promptly report such to the College. Failure to do so will be at the sole risk of the bidder

Communication: From the time the RFP is issued until award notification is made, all contact with MCC regarding the RFP must be made through the RFP Coordinator (see Bid Schedule).

No other person/ MCC employee is empowered to make binding statements regarding the RFP. Violation of this provision may lead to disqualification from the bidding process, at MCC’s discretion.

Question Submittal Process: It is the responsibility of all Bidders and other interested parties to examine the entire RFP and to seek clarification, in writing, if they do not understand any information or instructions.

a. The Questions must be submitted, by e-mail, and received by the RFP Coordinator, identified in the Bid Schedule of the RFP, as soon as possible but no later than the date and time specified on the Bid Schedule page.

b. Submitted Questions must include the RFP Number and Title in the subject line of the e-mail. MCC assumes no liability for assuring accurate/complete/on time e-mail transmission and receipt.

Responses to Questions: Responses to all questions will be compiled in writing and posted on the following websites by the date specified on the Bid Schedule Page:

https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/purchasing/bids.aspx and https://www.commbuys.com. It is the responsibility of all interested parties to go either website to obtain a copy of the Question & Answer Summary. Only those answers issued in writing on this website will be considered binding.

Amendments: MCC reserves the right to amend or alter the bid at any time prior to the deadline for submissions of bid. All amendments released in regard to the RFP will also be posted on the following websites: https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/purchasing/bids.aspx and https://www.commbuys.com. It is the responsibility of all interested parties to go to either website to obtain amendments. Only those amendments posted on this website are considered binding. All amendments shall be covered in the proposal and shall be part of the contract mailto:purchasing@middlesex.edu https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/purchasing/bids.aspx https://www.commbuys.com/ https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/purchasing/bids.aspx https://www.commbuys.com/

Proposal Submission: By submitting a response, the bidder agrees and assures that he or she has full knowledge of the scope, nature, quality of work to be performed, the detailed requirements of the project, and the conditions under which the work is to be performed.

Proposals must be submitted by email to MCC’s Purchasing Department at purchasing@middlesex.edu. Only proposal submissions received by e-mail will be considered. MCC assumes no liability for assuring accurate/complete e-mail transmission and receipt

All proposals MUST include the documents listed in the Format for Response Section. Bidders are to insert the following into the subject line of their e-mail proposal submission: “RFP# 2025-03 Proposal Submission – [Bidder’s Name]”.

File size limits are 10MB per e-mail. Bidders may submit files separately across multiple e-mails, as necessary, due to file size concerns. All e-mails and files must be received by the due date and time listed above.

Modification or Withdrawal of Proposals: A Bidder may modify or withdraw a proposal by email notice to purchasing@middlesex.edu by the date and time set for Bid Deadline. Each modification must be numbered in sequence and must reference the original RFP. However, no proposal may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days subsequent to the opening of the RFP without the prior written approval of the Director of Purchasing.

Right to Cancel/Reject Bid: The College reserves the right to cancel this bid at any time before a contract has been executed and approved, in which event the College will reject any and all bids received in response to this RFP. Should the bid be canceled, all expenses related to preparation of response to this RFP remain the responsibility of the Bidder.

Selection and Award: Bid 1 shall be awarded to a single vendor while MCC reserves the right to award components listed in Bids 2 and 3 to multiple vendors. The contract will be awarded to the Bidder who offers the best combination of price, capability and service options as determined by MCC. The lowest bid does NOT constitute the winning bid. MCC reserves the right to award or reject any and all proposals in whole or in part, and to waive technicalities, minor deviations, irregularities, and omissions if, in its judgment, the best interests of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and MCC will be served. No financial claim for any payment whatsoever shall be brought against MCC for any Contract award delays.

The contract will be awarded within sixty (60) days after the bid opening.

Notification of conditional award selection or non-selection will be made in writing by the MCC.

Issuance of the RFP in no way constitutes a commitment by MCC to award a contract, to pay costs incurred in the preparation of a response to the RFP.

1.6 FORMAT FOR RESPONSE

Proposals must include the Required Forms listed below. The proposal must be based on the specifications provided by Middlesex Community College.

Supplemental technical information, product literature and other supporting materials that further explain or demonstrate the proposed system capabilities may also be included within the proposal response.

Required Forms: The following forms must be submitted with the bid.

1. Proposal Cover Page (Appendix A)

2. Statement of State Tax Compliance (Appendix B)

3. Non-Collusion Certification (Appendix C)

4. Pricing Quote (provided by the vendor)

a. Pricing Quote Requirements:

i. Quote must include the Total Price for each Bid (Bid1, Bid2, and Bid3)

ii. Quote must also include an itemized list of components and costs included in each Bid#

iii. Quote must provide detailed specifications

iv. Quote must include the estimated delivery date. Please note: the equipment must be delivered to MCC no later than May 1, 2025.

v. Quote must include any additional costs (such as delivery costs, equipment training costs, installation and set-up costs, etc.). Please itemize each additional cost separately.

PART II - GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

2.1 TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Public Records Law: All responses and information submitted in response to this RFP are subject to the Massachusetts Public Records Law, M.G.L., Chapter 66, Section 10, and to Chapter 4, Section 7, Subsection 26(h). Any statements reserving any confidentiality or privacy rights in submitted Responses or otherwise inconsistent with these statues will be void and disregarded.

Governing Law and Venue: The Contract shall be governed by and construed by the Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Middlesex County, Massachusetts, shall be the proper venue for any litigation involving this Contract.

Negotiation: MCC reserves the right to negotiate all elements, which comprise the vendor's proposal to ensure the best possible consideration, be afforded to all concerned.

MCC further reserves the right to waive any and all minor irregularities in the proposal, waive any defect, and/or reject any and all proposals, and to seek new proposals when such an action would be deemed in the best interest of MCC.

Subcontracting: No portion of this contract may be subcontracted without prior written permission of the College. Please identify the use of a subcontractor in your RFP response.

APPENDIX A

Middlesex Community College

PROPOSAL COVER PAGE

Bidder’s Organization Name:

Chief Executive - Name/Title:

Tel: E-mail:

Headquarters Street Address:

Headquarters City/State/Zip:

Supplier Diversity Certification Type (Select all that apply):

☐ Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) ☐ Women Business Enterprise (WBE)

☐ Veteran-Owned Business Enterprise (VBE) ☐ Disability-Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE)

☐ Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Enterprise (SDVOBE)

☐ Lesbian Gay Bisexual or Transgender Business Enterprise (LGBTBE)

(Provide information requested below if different from above)

Lead Point of Contact for Proposal -

Tel: E-mail:

Headquarters Street Address:

Headquarters City/State/Zip:

• This proposal and the pricing structure contained herein will remain firm for a period of 60 days from the date and time of the bid opening.

• No personnel currently employed by MCC participated, either directly or indirectly, in any activities relating to the preparation of the Bidder’s proposal.

• No attempt has been made, or will be made, by the Bidder to induce any other person or firm to submit or not to submit a proposal.

• The above-named organization is the legal entity entering into the resulting contract with MCC if they are awarded the contract.

• The undersigned is authorized to enter contractual obligations on behalf of the above-named organization.

To the best of my knowledge, all information provided in the enclosed proposal, both programmatic and financial, is complete and accurate at the time of submission.

Name (Print):

Title:

Authorized Signature:

Date:

APPENDIX B

STATEMENT OF STATE TAX COMPLIANCE

Pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 62C, S 49A, as amended by Chapter 233 of the Acts of 1983, Section 36, I ________________________________________ authorized signatory for (Name & Title)

______________________________________ whose principal place of business is at (Contracting Party)

(Address) do hereby certify under the pains and penalties of perjury that _________________________ (Contracting Party) has complied with all laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts relating to taxes.

Contracting Party's Social Security or Federal I.D. Number: _________________________

APPENDIX C

NON-COLLUSION CERTIFICATION

The undersigned certifies under penalties of perjury that this bid or proposal has been made and submitted in good faith and without collusion or fraud with any other person. As used in this certification, the word "person" shall mean any natural person, business, partnership, corporation, union, committee, club, or other organization, entity, or group of individuals.