SOW Quadruped Robot Final 2_17_22.pdf

Statement of Need/Required Specifications Quadruped Robot with Manipulator with 6 Degrees of Freedom

Background:

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Robotics Laboratory has developed initial performance metrics to quantitatively evaluate the relative benefits of basic robotic capabilities for unstructured environments. The standards that have been developed by NIST are available through ASTM International at https://www.astm.org/.

Despite having developed initial performance metrics, however, NIST currently has no ongoing access to a robot to support in-depth experiments for quadruped robots. This hinders data collection and development efforts across NIST’s comprehensive suite of apparatuses and test procedures for maneuvering, mobility, dexterity, sensors, endurance, etc. necessary for unstructured environments.

Acquisition of a NIST-owned robot is essential to practically schedule and conduct inter-laboratory experiments to establish the “reproducibility” of NIST-developed apparatuses and test procedures. An added benefit would be to enhance communications with stakeholders, including the general public during tours, using hands-on demonstrations of state-of-the-science remote robot capabilities within relevant test apparatuses in the NIST Robot Test Facility.

General Statement of Need:

The NIST Robotics Laboratory requires a state-of-the-art quadrupedal robot with a manipulator with six degrees of freedom to be used for the development of performance metrics to quantitatively evaluate and develop standard test methods for legged robots.

This is a brand name only requirement: only the “Spot” robot manufactured by Boston Dynamics, Inc. is acceptable.

Brand Name Only Justification:

NIST specifically requires a quadrupedal robot with a manipulator with six degrees of freedom for the research to be performed. The robot will be used to develop performance metrics to quantitatively evaluate and develop standard test methods for legged robots. It is essential for planned NIST experiments that the quadrupedal robot have a manipulator with six degrees of freedom.

The Boston Dynamics, Inc. "Spot" robot is the only quadrupedal robot with a manipulator with six degrees of freedom in the marketplace. This robot is proprietary to its original equipment manufacturer, Boston Dynamics, Inc.

Boston Dynamics, Inc., a small business, has multiple small business resellers of its equipment. Therefore, this acquisition is processed on a brand-name-only competitive basis set aside for small businesses.

https://www.astm.org/

Required Specifications:

The Contractor shall provide Boston Dynamics, Inc. Spot Robot, a state-of-the-art quadrupedal robot with a manipulator with six degrees of freedom which meets the following minimum specifications:

• 6-degrees-of-freedom manipulator with fully integrated coordinated control for dexterity

• arm capable of a continuous lifting capacity of at least 5kg

• arm capable of dragging at least 25kg

• arm/robot combination capable of reaching to a height of at least 1800mm

• peak clamp force of the manipulator of 130 N or greater

• 3D range sensors for navigation and mapping

• autonomous functionality to include stair-climbing, door opening, and navigation in various environmental conditions (i.e., indoors, outdoors, wet, and dry).

• capable of carrying a minimum of two (2) external payloads (inspection cameras, laser scanners etc., with a weight of at least 14kg)

• 360° camera: Field of view 360x170, Video streaming, Resolution 10MP, still image format of PPM (Portable Pixel Map)

• PTZ Camera: Resolution of 2MP and 1080p video, optical zoom 30x, Range of motion 170°/sec, tilt range -30 to 270°

• integrated radiometric thermal camera (IR) with a resolution of 640 x 512. Video speed of 7.5Hz. FoV 69x56°

• cameras shall be enclosed in a roll cage to prevent damage

• capable of climbing at least a plus or minus 30-degree incline

• capable of traversing grass, sand, and water

• battery run time of no less than 90 minutes via a single charge. Batteries shall be chargeable via a 120V power outlet.

• capable of two-way communication between the robot (and nearby individuals) and robot operator via high-sensitivity 2-way microphone and speaker

• minimum speed of no less than 1.5 meters per second

• maximum base robot weight of 33kg

• ability to control the robot from a remote location using an intuitive tablet and application with built-in stereo cameras

• all electronics shall be sealed to the environment IP65 (Robot only)

• Manipulator shall be water and dust resistant

• Operating temperature of Robot with Manipulator shall be between -20°C to 45°C

• The robot shall be provided with electronic manuals specific to its software, hardware, and operation.

Shipping and Delivery: The Contractor shall deliver the quadruped robot to the address below on a F.O.B Destination basis within four months of contract award.

NIST

100 Bureau Drive

Building 301 Shipping & Receiving Gaithersburg, MD 20899

The robot shall arrive fully assembled, ready to charge and begin operating.

Warranty: The contractor shall provide a one-year manufacturer’s warranty on all parts, components and software associated with the robot. Software updates shall be provided during the warranty period when available.

Training: The contractor shall conduct one (1) training session for up to three (3) NIST personnel. The training shall cover operations, maintenance, troubleshooting and safety of the robot. The training may take place via video conference and shall take place at a mutually agreed upon time within 30 days following delivery.

Inspection and Acceptance: Following receipt, the Government will charge the robot and test it against the specifications identified in this document. The inspection and testing process will be completed within 30 days after delivery. If the equipment meets all stated specifications during inspection, it will be accepted.