Industry dRFP Questions - Government Responses - FINAL.pdf

Q# Document Page Paragraph Topic Industry Question Government Answer Resulting Revision (if applicable)

1 Draft Statement of Objectives 3 2 Program Objective

This Draft RFP does not address the other critical element of tactical energy generation, storage. ACES Group possess a very resilient non-lithium based energy storage technology that has zero thermal signature and provides 100% depth of discharge capable of performing in remote austere environments with wide operating temperatures -22f to 176f before only modest performance reduction. There are no rare earth materials in the construction of this device and it is environmentally inert. It can be cycled up to 1 million times or more. ACES Group is a company of ex and retired warfighters who understand well the need for safe, resilient, energy storage technology that is simple to use, requires no maintenance and can replace all lead acid batteries in the battlespace. Where Lithium based energy storage os on no-fly lists for military aircraft, our Supercapacitor technology is safe to transport anywhere, even submarines. ACES Group has been trying hard to communicate these capes to the E2S2 program office without sucess.

Energy Storage is not a part of this sytem. Energy storage will be part of the STEP Hybrid Augmentation System which will begin development at a later date.

DRAFT Performance Spoecifications_STEP

3kW EMD 13 3.7.4 colder temperature

As 3.7.1 discusses starting the generator at low temperature and times, is the government saying they need the generator to start at –65°F (–54°C) within 5 minutes of the first user action in accordance with (IAW) the startup procedures?

This objective requirement is to start at -65F within 10 minutes of the first user action. All requirements of 3.7.1 through 3.7.3 apply, except the time to start.

DRAFT Performance Spoecifications_STEP

3kW EMD 13 3.9.1 fuels

The fuels listed are not all certified to –65°F (–54°C) per 3.7.4, is the government saying they expect to use these fuels below the manufacturer recommended temps or will they change the fuel to match the ambient temperature and not require the generator to start on fuel that is outside of the recommended temperatures for that fuel?

The fuels used for operation of the generator set will only be used within their recommended operating temperatures.

Pspec updated to make that clear.

DRAFT Performance Spoecifications_STEP

3kW EMD 19 3.17.3 Weight Please confirm that the dry weight of the set (308 lb) excludes anything identified as an accessory. Yes Definition updated to clarify this.

DRAFT Contractual Solicitation

Provisions_STEP 3kW EMD.pdf 2 A Basis for Award (Section M)

The first and most important evaluation factor is Small Business Participation, but the beta.SAM announcement lists this as a Total Small Business Set Aside. Given that this is a multiple award EMD, it is highly recommended that the Government keep the solicitation as Full and Open to avail itself of all potential sources and solutions.

Market research indicates that there are more than enough SB's capable of meeting the acquisition requirements.

Resultantly, this requirement will be classified as either a Partial SB Set-Aside, with 2/3 awards being made to SBs, or Total set aside.

DRAFT Contractual Solicitation

Provisions_STEP 3kW EMD.pdf 2 A Basis for Award (Section M)

It would seem that having SB Participation as the number one evaluation criteria diminishes the importance of the other three criteria in terms of value. It is suggested that the criteria be changed to (1) Technical (2) Cost/Price (3) Past Performance; and establish goals for SB participation for this procurement.

Taken into consideration.

DRAFT Contractual Solicitation

Provisions_STEP 3kW EMD.pdf 33 3.31.12.7 Voltage adjustment range Why is the DC adjustment range 18 to 30 volts? Shouldn't it follow the +/- 5% range required for the AC voltages?

Pspec minimum voltage adjustment range and voltage adjustment range changed to match MIL-STD-1332

Pspec updated to plus or minus 5 percent minimum and 23-35VDC at normal ambient temperatures.

DRAFT Contractual Solicitation

Provisions_STEP 3kW EMD.pdf 20 3.17.8 Spacing, Table 1

How does the "shortest distance" rule apply if using an insulator such as nomex between surfaces? Is the "shortest distance" around the edge of the insulator or straight through it?

This requirement applies to uninsulated parts. If an insulator is used, it does not apply and standard industry practices would prevail.

DRAFT Contractual Solicitation

Provisions_STEP 3kW EMD.pdf 23 3.2 TMS Compliant

Will a released version of the Tactical Microgrid Standard be included with the RFP? Based on the incomplete draft we saw in February, this standard could become quite onerous.

Final version of TMS-TGP will be available OCT 2021

DRAFT Contractual Solicitation

Provisions_STEP 3kW EMD.pdf 30 3.30.6 Frequency adjustment range

Is it necessary with a crystal controlled frequency source in a solid state inverter output? We understand the inverter will need to adjust it's frequency automatically when paralleling, but we suggest the nominal should be fixed if sufficiently accurate.

No Pspec updated to make it if required

DRAFT Contractual Solicitation

Provisions_STEP 3kW EMD.pdf 32 3.31.11 Voltage modulation

3.31.11 calls out 2.5% for voltage modulation up to 100% load, but this specification seems inconsistent with paragraph 3.31.12.1 which calls out no-load to full load regulation of 4%. Please clarify.

Voltage modulation and regulation are two different characteristics of the waveform. Modulation refers to differences in the peak voltage peaks (positive and negative) of the voltage waveform. Regulation is the maximum difference in the mean value at no load RMS voltage to any load to include rated load mean value RMS voltage. For further information on how these values are determined, see MIL-STD-705D test methods 602.1 and 608.1.

DRAFT Contractual Solicitation

Provisions_STEP 3kW EMD.pdf 36 3.32.1.9 Frequency adjustment device

We believe a frequency adjustment device would serve no purpose and could only be misused to set an incorrect frequency. We believe the only frequency adjustment should be automatic when commanding the generator to synchronize or share with another AC source.

Understood. Frequency adjustment will only be required if the system does not automatically control the frequency.

Pspec updated to make it if required

DRAFT Contractual Solicitation

Provisions_STEP 3kW EMD.pdf 38 3.32.2.5 Wattmeter

We belive a reading of true watts output is not useful, a display of Volt Amps is more useful as it is directly related to the generator's capability. If true Watts are desired to determine diesel engine loading and fuel consumption, we suggest monitoring the rectified generator voltage and current (DC) at the generator output, (inverter input) as it would then also include the inverter output stage losses.

Most operators only know real power and arithmetic.

Apparent power would confuse most of the operators. The wattmeter shall be required for reasons mentioned. Since voltage is displayed, displaying current would net the same result.

DRAFT Contractual Solicitation

Provisions_STEP 3kW EMD.pdf 39 3.32.3.2 Continuous display meters

We suggest removing the requirement to display output watts and reactive power. The only useful information would be apparent power in VA (see comment under 3.32.3.2).

Real, reactive and apparent powers would benefit the maintainer and specific operators. The requirement stands.

DRAFT Contractual Solicitation

Provisions_STEP 3kW EMD.pdf 41 3.33.2 Electrical interruption protection

We request clarification of the various output protection descriptions throughout the specification. There appears to be a requirement for mechanical circuit breakers, but there also seems to be references to interruption devices that can be tested and automatically reset. Are multiple protection devices required or would a single "smart circuit breaker" function be acceptable?

Usually a set has a single contactor that is controlled by the smarts of the set control system (unique control), and when the set control system sees an issue, it controls the opening of the contactor. Circuit breakers are used in instances where space is limited and unique control of operation is not needed and current limits differ, but are manually resetable. If a single smart circuit breaker can cover all this in one, then it would be acceptable.

16 SAM Industry Day Announcement 1 Heading Classification: Original Set Aside The SAM announcement reflects this solicitation as a Total Small Business Set Aside. Will this be the case when the formal RFP is released?

Market research indicates that there are more than enough SB's capable of meeting the acquisition requirements.

Resultantly, this requirement will be classified as either a Partial SB Set-Aside, with 2/3 awards being made to SBs, or Total set aside.

17 DRAFT Solicitation Provisions 6 2 (a) Price Factor Evaluation Price Factor Evaluation to include Basis of Award states multiple award CPFF Contract with CPFF contract line items; however, 2(a) states evaluating IDIQ FFP CLINS with range pricing. Please confirm the contract type and/or contract vehicle anticipated.

The anticipated contract type is CPFF.

18 DRAFT Solicitation Provisions 18/19 7(d) NDA with Radiance Technologies In what capacity is Radiance Technologies performing in this effort, i.e. why would a NDA be required? NDAs are not required. Removed.

DRAFT CDRLs

(# C0004) 4 Blk 16 Electronic Technical Manual (ETM) Is the 70% 2nd DRAFT ETM acceptable for use in PH2 testing?

Contract phasing will probably differ from what was specified in the draft RFP and what will be specified in the actual RFP that is released in the future but the 70% solution for the Electronic TM will most likely be used through prototype build and a more complete version will be required mid-way through the Test Support phase.

DRAFT CDRLs

(# C0004) 4 Blk 16 Electronic Technical Manual (ETM) The final draft is required 30 days prior to the end of Phase 3, yet this is only a 2-phase effort.

Contract phasing will probably differ from what was specified in the draft RFP and what will be specified in the actual RFP that is released in the future but the 70% solution for the Electronic TM will most likely be used through prototype build and a more complete version will be required mid-way through the Test Support phase.

21 DRAFT Statement of Objectives (SOO) 6 7 (line 136) Electronic Tech and Training Manuals There is no timeline or CDRL associated with the training requirements as referenced If training is required, the actual RFP will include a CDRL that addresses the training plan required for operator and maintainer task training.

22 DRAFT Performance Specifications 60 4.3 Number of Systems for Testing How many prototype units are required to complete all Phase 2 testing requirements as outlined in the Performance Specification?

This will be detailed in the final RFP. At this time, the government wexpects to order 15-20 prototype units.

23 DRAFT Performance Specifications 60 4.3 Testing Requirements Testing requirements as outlined in the Performance Specifications, exceed what can be accomplished in a 12-month period. Is it acceptable to provide either digital twin testing in an MBSE environment, or pull performance testing data from other prototype systems already in use?

Testing will occur on multiple systems simultaneously in order to accomplish the effort in 12 months.

24 DRAFT Performance Specifications 10 3.2 Missing Reference The MTBF reference 4.7.9 does not exist in this document. Reference should be 4.8.9 Updated reference in paragraph 3.2

25 DRAFT Performance Specifications 37 3.32.1.14 Remote Control Device Is a remote control device required prior to prototype testing?

All accessories are required for First Article Testing. This will be detailed in the updated Pspec.

Additional section added detailing which accessories are required for a complete First Article system and which accessories are required for a complete Production system.

26 DRAFT Performance Specifications 97 6.4.5 Stopping Is stopping to be interpreted as ceasing power output, powered mechanical motion, or all mechanical motion?

A set is considered to have stopped when all rotating members and all mechnical motion are at zero rpm and force, with the exception of a turbo-charger or turbine, if used, and no output power and no more than 1 mA of current is allowed to be drawn from the set battery (ies).

Pspec stop definition updated.

27 DRAFT Performance Specifications 14 3.10.5 Fuel Consumption Test Is there a target fuel consumption rate for fuels other than JP-8?

The required fuels consumption rate to produce the required power shall be no more than the genset it replaces (i.e. 3kW TQG). The 3kW TQG uses a desiel engine [Yanmar L70N6EZ0T9EAFD (NSN 2815-01-660-5994)] and its fuel consumption would be worse with jet fuels (i.e. F-24, JP-8, JP-

5) than with No. 2-D S15 (ULSD) fuel due to the fuels energy density - (MJ/kg), where JP-5 yielding the worst.

Pspec fuel consumption rate updated for less than 0.36 gallons per hour for JP-8, F-24, and No. 2-D S15 at rated load and less than 0.40 gallons per hour at the actual derated load, if applicable, for JP- 5.

28 DRAFT Performance Specifications 26 3.27.7.2.1 Battery Are electronic memory supplemental batteries allowed, or is the intention to have a singular battery/battery pack for meeting all "generator off" power requirements?

They are allowed but consideration should be taken to minimize the need to replace this battery, especially after long term storage. Consideration should also be used to ensure the battery is replaceable without replacing an entire control unit.

29 DRAFT Performance Specifications 50 3.35.6 Feeder Box Are the feeder box accessories (AC Feeder Box and DC Feeder Box) required at the prototype stage?

All accessories which are necessary to meet these requirements are also required for First Article Testing. This will be detailed in the updated Pspec.

Additional clarification added detailing which accessories are required for a complete First Article system and which accessories are required for a complete Production system.

30 DRAFT Performance Specifications 97 6.4.5 (line 3142) Stopping Recommend "turbo-charger be changed to "turbo-charger or turbine"

Agreed. Also note that exposed parts of such nature as to be a hazard to personnel shall be insulated, enclosed or guarded without impairing the functioning of these parts, see Safety for more information.

Pspec stop definition updated.

31 SOO 4 4 Phases The graphic shows three phases, while the narrative shows two. Is Phase Three part of the anticipated contract?

Contract phasing will probably differ from what was specified in the draft RFP and what will be specified in the actual RFP that is released in the future. During the Virtual STEP Industry Day presentation on 18 Aug 21, the proposed schedule showed four phases: PDR, CDR, Prototype Build, and Test Support phases.

32 SOO 4 4 Phases Will the Government consider including production options as part of this contract? Why or Why Not?

This draft RFP only addresses the EMD phase requirements that will result in the design and delivery or prototype systems to the Government. The actual RFP that is issued could potentially allow for the Government to down-select to one vendor for production.

33 SOO 6 7 Logistics Support Package

Is the SOO indicates development of substantial logistics management information; including operator and maintainer technical manuals. The schedule implies delivery of manuals proximal to prototypes. This may be unrealistic - if a military style manual is expected - since manuals have very prescriptive formats and requirements and often take on a life of their own during a production contract; and will be made more difficult during a development contract.

PM MEPS will consider whether the level of effort to be applied to the development of logistircs management information; including operator and maintainer technical manuals should be adjusted from the requirements specified in the draft RFP.

34 Solicitation 7 C.3.b. Past Performance

The government defines relevance as "…and which are related to production and delivery of mobile power generating units and/or power distribution equipment, 200kW or less." We recommend the government consider expanding the definition of relevancy to include 'or other related power management systems'. These could include power controls, transformers, and converters, used in military applications. Including these type systems would greatly expand the types of firms with potential capabilities and novel ideas beneficial to the Army's objectives.

PM MEPS will consider whether the expansion of the definition of relevancy of prior contract performance is required to meet the Government's objectives for this proposed procurement.

35 Solicitation 10 D.1.j Incorporation of Proposals We request that the government make provisions to prevent unintended disclosure of proprietary information in any portions of the Offeror's proposal in the resulting contract

The Government will make provisions to prevent the unintended disclosure of proprietary information in any proposal received.

36 Solicitation 12 D.2.b File Packaging Conflict: This paragraph refers to five separate volumes when Table 5 (page 11) and the following para (d) both describe seven volumes. Volume quantity is as presented in Table 5.

Corrected para D.2.b to indicate correct/corresponding Table 5 volumes

37 Solicitation N/A N/A First Article What is desired as a Phase 1 design project deliverable? – is it a functional First Article prototype of a STEP stage that offers demonstration of all of the 3.1.1 Set Ratings and includes at least 1 of each types of TMG equipment listed in Table 1-1 as modular working units functioning as a single cohesive TMG ?

All data deliverables specified in the SOW / CDRLs as due at the end of Phase 1 as well as the number of prototypes specified must be provided to the Government at the end of phase 1.

38 Perf Spec 45 3.34.7 3.34.7 Remote control from a PC Is the PC Ap providing a PTP master? It may.

39 Perf Spec 45 3.34.6 PoE Power What PoE power will be available for use from the "PoE like power" device providing the 60V?

That will be defined by the power requirements of the genset to at least participate in the TMS communications while the genset engine is off. The intent is to conserve set battery state of charge and fuel while waiting for a command to start via TMS on remote one receptacle.

Pspec updated to reflect the power required.

40 Tactical Microgrid Standard 21 4.9.2 4.9.2 Device Roles Does the scope of work include contractor creating and delivering a CI functional Micro System Manager (MSM) as in line 516 figure 4.9.2 Device Roles local to STEP Gen Sets OR is the government providing the MSM device including remote cloud PTP master functionality to the Gen Set?

Contractor is required to develop an MSM (aka Microgrid Dashboard) and MC (Microgrid Controller) which is the "Software" in Figure 1 of the Pspec. Contractor is also required to develop a SRC which is the "STEP Set" in the same figure.

Pspec updated to reflect this requirement.

41 Tactical Microgrid Standard 35 5.4 5.4. Communications Interface Please comment on the TMS Data Model communications stack and OSI development in order for contractors to scope the CI level of effort. For example, will the government be providing or specifying a stack?

OMG DDS using UDP. Government will verify interoperability.

Government will be able to provide TMS topic monitoring capability to assist with development, i.e. wireshark like type of tool.

42 Tactical Microgrid Standard 275 B.26.2.5 PTP Clock What is the precision/accuracy requirement for the clock source (ex: +/-1us?)

Within 1 second, the clock source is used for audit logs.

Refer to V-222499 Application Security and Development

STIG.

43 Tactical Microgrid Standard 7 1.4 Table 1-1 Types of Equipment in a Tactical Microgrid

If possible, is it desirable to minimize the number of unique device types within a STEP Gen Set configuration if the contractor has the capability to provide modularity?

No, the preference would be that each STEP Gen Set be its own unique device type as a SRC.

44 Tactical Microgrid Standard 7 1.4 Table 1-1 Types of Equipment in a Tactical Microgrid

Type III Feeder System (AC)- is the desired standard TMG AC bus always 3 phases? and at what voltage?

TMS supports AC and DC buses of any voltage, frequency, or number of phases.