NASA/Langley Research Center, Mail Stop 144, Industry Assistance Office, Hampton, VA 23681-0001

A -- R&D TO PERFORM THERMAL INDUCED GRADIENT EFFECTS RESEARCH ON WIND TUNNEL BALANCES THROUGH TESTING AND ALGORITHM DEVELOPMENT. SOL 1-168-RBL.1033 DUE 123099 POC Kimberly D. Duncan, Purchasing Agent, Phone (757)-864-3566, Fax (757) 864-8863, Email k.d.duncan@larc.nasa.gov WEB: Click here for the latest information about this notice, http://nais.msfc.nasa.gov/cgi-bin/EPS/bizops.cgi?gr=D&;pin=23#1-168-RBL .1033. E-MAIL: Kimberly D. Duncan, k.d.duncan@larc.nasa.gov. NASA/LaRC plans to issue a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for a R&D effort to investigate methods to improve force balance performance in the wind tunnel in the presence of temperature gradients to improve cycle-time and data quality. One aspect of the investigation is to determine a mathematical approach to generate the best algorithm to minimize gradient effects. Additionally, there are many applications to analyzing the massive amounts of data that will be generated from the testing. This is part of the Thermally Induced Gradient Effects Research (TIGER). This procurement is being conducted under the Simplified Acquisition Procedures (SAP). NASA/LaRC intends to purchase the items from Christopher Newport University (CNU), unique services available from only one source. Staff at CNU has expertise in the area of advanced mathematical modeling and experience with balances and instrumentation associated with this project which gives them unique knowledge and capabilities. There would be substantial duplication of cost for another firm to learn the required background to complete this research effort, and such costs are not expected to be recovered through competition. The Government does not intend to acquire a commercial item using FAR Part 12. See Note 26. See Note 22. Interested firms have 15 days from the publication of this synopsis to submit in writing to the identified point of contact, their qualifications/capabilities. Such qualifications/capabilities will be used solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct this procurement on a competitive basis. Responses received after the 15 days or without the required information will be considered nonresponsive to the synopsis and will not be considered. A determination by the Government to not compete this proposed effort on a full and open competitive basis, based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Oral communications are not acceptable in response to this notice. All responsible sources may submit an offer which shall be considered by the agency. An Ombudsman has been appointed. See Internet Note "B". Any referenced notes can be viewed at the following URL: http://genesis.gsfc.nasa.gov/nasanote.html Posted 12/15/99 (D-SN408654). (0349)

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