3-Axis Motorized Stages
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), under the Department of Commerce, has issued a Sources Sought Notice for 3-Axis Motorized Stages. This market research aims to identify vendors capable of designing and building a specialized scanning linear stage system for a magnetic imaging microscope. Responses are due March 25, 2026.
Scope of Work
NIST requires a 3-axis translational system to enable 3D thermal imaging using magnetic nanoparticle thermometers. The system must include an integrated 3-axis stage stack, an additional linear stage, and a motion controller for at least 4 axes. Key specifications include:
- XYZ Stage Stack: X-stage (300mm travel), Y-stage (100mm travel), Z-stage (at least 50mm travel).
- Motion Requirements: Accuracy of 2 µm, repeatability of 1.5 µm, smallest step size of 1.5 µm, and maximum velocity of 10 mm/s. Must support repeated XY scanning.
- Z-stage: Low profile lift-type, mounted on top.
- Materials: Non-magnetic body (e.g., aluminum or titanium) and non-magnetic encoders.
- Assembly & Calibration: Vendor-assembled and calibrated XYZ stack (at least for X and Y).
- Other: Total stack height < 375mm, payload capacity up to 4 kg, imperial unit mounting holes, and all cables/accessories.
- Additional Linear Stage (4th Axis): 75-100mm travel, smallest step size of 1.5 µm, max velocity of 10 mm/s.
- Controller: Must control at least 4 axes, with Ethernet or USB communication, and controllable via LabVIEW, MATLAB, or Python.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
- Response Due: March 25, 2026, 5:00 PM ET
- Questions Due: March 12, 2026, 5:00 PM ET
- Published: March 11, 2026
Evaluation
Responses will inform NIST's market research to determine industry capabilities and potential procurement strategies. This notice is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or commitment to award a contract.
Additional Notes
Respondents should provide company details, capabilities meeting or exceeding minimum requirements, relevant past experience, and identify any unduly restrictive requirements. Do not provide proprietary information. NIST will not reimburse costs incurred in responding to this notice.