R --Design and Development of an operator fatigue data collection monitor

NA The Volpe National Transportation Systems Center (Volpe Center) plans to procure a sole source from Attention Technology, Pittsburgh, PA, to provide a working prototype of a device that will automatically measure Perclos (percent eyelid closure; a validated measure of a sleepiness) on board American freight and passenger locomotives. The contractor will be required to detail all the specifications and functionality related to the development of an Operator Fatigue Monitor (OFM) appropriate for use in a locomotive environment, develop OFM requirements document and design OFM for locomotive application. This effort will require the contractor to develop, review and finalize, and test the OFM prototype. This procurement will be conducted under Simplified Acquisition procedures in accordanc e with FAR Part 13. Small business firms classified under NAICS Code 541990, Business Size Standard $6M, that are interested in proposing on this requirement must respond in writing no later than 15 days from the date of this publication that they possess a recognized specialization in measuring drowsiness and understanding its effects upon human performance in the laboratory and simulated and operational driving conditions. The contractor must have a detailed and comprehensive knowledge of PERCLOS, including the driver fatigue monitor which is used in collecting valid sleepiness data from the transportation operator. This proposed action is for services for which the Government intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source under authority in FAR Part 6.302. This notice of inten t is not a request for competitive quotes. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed purchase order based upon responses received to this notice would normally be considered, solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. The RFQ issuance will be on or about March 24, 2004. Small business firms will be required to submit a maximum of three but not less than two pages of documentation in support of the above for evaluation prior to receiving a solicitation. No telephone requests will be accepted – only written requests for this solicitation will be accepted, however, we will accept requests via facsimile at (617) 494-3024, ATTN: Karen Marino, DTS-853.