U.S. Postal Service, Automation Purchasing, 8403 Lee Highway, Merrifield, VA 22082-8150

39 -- PACKAGE SINGULATOR Due 051096, contact point, Eva Weems, Fax (703) 280-8412. The Postal Service is seeking qualification statements from firms interested in being pre-qualified as sources eligible to participate in the competitive procurement of between 100 and 500+ Package Singulation System (Singulator). We are seeking existing equipment that will cull and align packages that are bulk loaded into this equipment. The Singulator should align the product in single file with no side-by-sides and eliminate or reduce ``piggy-backs''. Mid-size packages will be processed by the Singulator, including a large variance in form and surface types, i.e., plastics, material, canvas, cardboard, ploywrap, styrofoam, rubber, etc. Product types are: Softpack - pillows, bags (non flat bottoms); Cartons, Bags, Flats, Small Packages, i.e., check books, film. It is to be part of an induction system for our parcel sorting equipment in our Bulk Mail Centers (BMCs). Currently conveyors move the packages to a High Speed Induction Unit (HSIU), which inducts them onto a carousel type tilt tray. In this new approach we will divert packages before they arrive at the HSIUs. This will be accomplished by a new induction system called the Singulation and Scanning Induction Unit (SASIU). Packages will enter the Singulator area where they are aligned in a single file. Aligned packages will then be spaced and sent through a Scan Tunnel where the Package Bar Code Symbol is read. This information is sent to our existing Process Control System (PCS). The PCS sends back a tray assignment message. SASIU then inducts the package onto the tray. We are seeking qualification statements from only those firms who can adequately demonstrate the following capabilities: Ability to manufacture a Singulator meeting the following Parameters: (1) Input: Bulk Load; (2) Output; Single File - no side-by-sides; (3) Reduction or elimination of ``piggy-back'' packages; (4) Throughput; (a) minimum 1800 pph; (b) desired 3600 pph; (c) absolute peak 10,800 pph. Noise Level should be less than 80 dba. Package parameters are: (1) Weight: minimum 4 ounces, maximum 25 pounds. (2) Length: minimum 3 inches, maximum 17 inches (a good design should accommodate the occasional larger packages, e.g., 30 inches). (3) Width: minimum 3 inches, maximum 17 inches. (4) Height: minimum 0.25 inches, maximum 17 inches. Only those firms who are determined to be qualified will be eligible to compete for any resulting contracts. Interested firms should prepare a summary of their qualifications, not to exceed twenty (20) pages, which must demonstrate that they possess the capabilities described above. The qualification statement must be submitted to the address above no later than May 10, 1996. (109)

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