Skip to main content

An official website of the United States government

DOF Alignment Hexapod

Waiver type - Procurement: Nonavailability

Agency: NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY (1341) • Product Service Code (PSC) : 6640 | Last Modified: 03/11/2024

Procurement Summary

The Faint Photonics Group and the Quantum Nanophotonics Group at NIST Boulder Laboratories have a need for an automated alignment system with 6 degrees of freedom (DOF), for the alignment of arrays of superconducting sensors to arrays of optical fibers at room temperature. We seek to purchase a high-resolution automated alignment system capable of precise alignment of micrometer-size features for packaging of superconducting sensor array with fiber bundle array. The alignment system shall be able to align with 6 degrees of freedom (DOF) with sub-micrometer alignment accuracy.

Waiver Rationale Summary

PI Physik Instrumente provides the only known hexapod alignment system that offers the unique capabilities NIST requires in regard to the precise alignment of micrometer-size features for packaging the superconducting sensor array with fiber bundle array. PI Physik Instrumente's product provides fast and precise incremental movements that are essential for this requirement. Another unique characteristic is the product's ability to have a manual control pad, which brings the system close to the point where an automated alignment procedure can be started, as well as assist NIST in diagnosing possible issues with the auto-alignment. This capability will save essential time and man-hour resources in the lab during the alignment process.

Did / Will the solicitation include one of the standard BAA provisions announcing the agency’s intention to provide a price preference for domestic end products and construction material?

Yes

Was a sources sought or Request for Information issued?

Yes

OMB Determination

Consistent with Policy

Product

LABORATORY EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES

NAICS

334516 - Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing

Date Submitted

02/29/2024

Procurement Instrument Identifier (PIID)

NB686060-24-00876

Solicitation ID

NB686060-24-00876

Procurement Stage

Post-solicitation

Expected Maximum Duration of the Proposed Waiver

0 - 6 months

Waiver Coverage

Individual Waiver

Funding Agency

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY