9250-25-R-IFBD-00027

Mississippi State University's Office of Procurement & Contracts is soliciting bids for a complex stitching equipment procurement through Invitation for Bid (IFB) 9250-25-R-IFBD-00027. The procurement specifically seeks an expanded gantry system for automated robotic stitching of large-scale composite structures, designed to accommodate components measuring 12 ft wide x 8 ft high x 36 ft long. The system requires comprehensive modification, including replacing a 6-axis robot with a 3-axis rotary wrist, expanding X-axis rail length, adding a second X-axis rail, and implementing Y and Z-axis rails with precise technical specifications. Key deliverables include the complete design, engineering, and construction of the gantry system, along with electrical control panel modifications, cable extensions, wrist dress pack, programming interfaces, safety fencing, on-site installation, and system calibration at MSU facilities. The bid is scheduled to open on April 29, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., with all proposals due by that date and time.

The procurement is funded entirely through federal funds, specifically a grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration, with a total potential funding allocation of up to $650,000. While the documentation does not explicitly outline set-aside designations or specific organizational restrictions, the federal funding source suggests potential preference for small business participation. The expanded gantry system requires vendors to demonstrate sophisticated engineering capabilities, with specific technical requirements including linear axis beam lengths ranging from 14.5 to 58.1 ft, precise velocity and acceleration parameters, and a 3-axis rotary wrist with rotation capabilities of +/- 180 and +/- 90 degrees across different axes. Prospective bidders must have advanced technical expertise in robotic systems, composite structure manufacturing, and the ability to integrate complex mechanical and electrical systems. The project represents a significant technological investment for Mississippi State University, targeting enhanced capabilities in automated composite structure manufacturing.