Please note: This is a Sole Source Notification. Specifications include, but are not limited to: The School of Polymer Science and Engineering at the University of Southern Mississippi is in the process of purchasing a state-of-the-art robotic arm for advanced material processing and characterization. This purchase will fulfill the department’s goal to advance the data driven material design. The new robotic arm we intend to acquire is specifically designed for precision manipulation in material science applications. It will feature advanced control systems and open source software compatible, compatible with handling air sensitive samples. The required custom designed robotic technology to integrate with our current sample processing systems at the center for optoelectronic materials devices, ensuring continuity in research methodologies and data collection processes. The robotic arm's versatility and precision are crucial for meeting the diverse needs of our researchers and students. Additionally, the vendor meets other requests from the existing lab facility. After thorough evaluation, we have identified that North Robotics Corporation is the only supplier capable of providing a robotic arm that meets our specific requirements. Their systems offer direct compatibility with our existing laboratory equipment, as well as open source coding and capability to handling air sensitive materials, allowing for a more efficient workflow and reducing the need for extensive, costly training that would be necessary with a non-compatible system. Such a tool is essential for maintaining the high standards of research and education within the School of Polymer Science and Engineering, and advance the data driven material design project.
