Iowa State University is soliciting bids for a fully integrated automation platform to support student learning about real-world manufacturing systems. The platform will be used for hands-on learning in industrial engineering labs and will support small-scale production activities. Key requirements include a single-vendor, fully integrated platform with structural framing, motion systems, conveyance systems, and a controls architecture. The system must be 100% modular, reconfigurable, and reusable, with a digital design twin capability. It should also feature a plug-and-play control system with an open architecture compatible with Python and C, and integration with Universal Robots UR12e is preferred. Suppliers must provide technical literature, an itemized quotation, and warranty information. Installation and training are also required. The response deadline is May 25, 2026.
The response deadline for this RFQ is May 25, 2026, at 03:00 PM CT. The delivery, installation, and training timeline is a critical evaluation factor, and suppliers must be specific with their answers regarding how soon after order the equipment can be delivered and how soon after delivery installation and training can take place.
Suppliers must select the payment terms for their offer from the following options: Net 30, Net 20, Net 10, Net 5, 15Net 30, or 2 15Net 30. If 'other' is selected, the supplier must briefly explain the terms.
Suppliers are required to attach a document describing the warranty for each piece of equipment included in the offer. The bid attributes also include a section to describe the warranty duration, what it does and does not cover, and any limitations.
The evaluation of this RFQ may be based upon, but not limited to, the ability to meet or exceed equipment specifications, ease of use and ability to support student instruction, lead time, strength of installation and training package, total cost of ownership, and proposed payment and delivery terms.
Suppliers must provide references from outside their company, preferably from customers who have purchased and are currently using the same or similar products/services. Failure to provide three appropriate and unique references may result in the offer being considered non-compliant.
The question deadline for this RFQ is May 22, 2026, at 11:00 AM CT.
Exceptions taken to the general terms and conditions or the scope of work/specifications may cause the proposal to be rejected at the sole discretion of the university. Any terms to which the contractor does not take exception shall be binding, and any subsequent objections to those terms shall have no effect.