3D Photometric Stereo Microscope

NIST is issuing a Sources‑Sought notice (NIST‑SS26‑114) to gauge market interest and capability for the procurement of one new 3‑D photometric stereo microscope, its required software, and consumable supplies. The system must meet or exceed defined performance thresholds, including a vertical (z) resolution of at least 1 µm, a lateral (x‑y) resolution of 5 µm with a minimum 1‑MP sensor, a single‑acquisition time of ≤20 seconds, a field of view of ≥8 mm × 8 mm, and the ability to accurately scan transparent (e.g., glass) and translucent (e.g., PLA, ABS, PETG) materials. Software must provide perpetual‑license operation, include stitching for larger fields, export data in non‑proprietary formats (.txt, .X3P), and offer basic analysis tools (plane fitting, filtering, surface‑roughness calculations per ASME B46 or ISO standards). All hardware must be new, shipped in original manufacturer packaging, and free of unauthorized “gray‑market” components. Respondents are asked to identify small‑business status (NAICS 334516), describe relevant experience, list any existing Federal Supply Schedule contracts, and suggest any overly restrictive requirements that could hinder small‑business participation. Responses (no proprietary data) are to be submitted in Word, Excel, or PDF format to the point of contact, Cielo Ibarra (cielo.ibarra@nist.gov), by 5:00 p.m. Eastern on May 12 2026. This notice is for market research only; it does not constitute a solicitation, quotation request, or guarantee of award.

Notice ID

23b494d222814b4a84172c12bb0ce31d

Solicitation Number

NIST-SS26-114

NAICS Code

334516

Classification Code

6640