Metal Organic Framework Synthesis Robot

The Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), intends to negotiate on a sole source basis, with NORTH ROBOTICS, INC. under other than full and open competition by the authority of FAR subpart 13.1 using the authority in FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i) Soliciting from a Single Source - Not Exceeding Simplified Acquisition Threshold.

NORTH ROBOTICS, INC. Victoria, British Columbia, Canada is the sole-source provider for the N9 Robot with C9 Robot Controller with 8 axis.  NIST has identified the need to acquire the capability to synthesize metal organic framework (MOF) materials in an automated fashion.  Only North Robotics provides open-source controls software based on a Python language which is required for integration into NIST existing equipment's learning code base, necessary for an autonomous workflow.  The North Robotics proprietary coding environment (IDE) allows for the simulation of the robotic actions based on a CAD model and allows operation of the platform to carry out the requisite steps without human intervention.  North Robotics’s N9 platform has no third-party vendors  authorized to produce, distribute, or perform installation.

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition is 333998.

No solicitation package will be issued. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotations; however, interested persons may identify their interest and capability to respond to this requirement. The Government will consider responses received by 4:00 p.m. (EST) on August 21, 2023. Inquiries will only be accepted via email to Harry.Brubaker@NIST.gov. No telephone requests will be honored.

A determination by the Government not to compete the proposed acquisition based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement in the future.