Scope
Reference
MW/UoP/Ultrasound_Neuromodulation/102/25
Description
The University of Plymouth requires a ultrasound neuromodulation device which is designed for human use, specifically for non-invasive brain modulation.
It is not a High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) device and is not intended for surgery or tissue ablation. The system will utilize a multi-phased array transducer with 256 elements, with 128 elements positioned on each side of the head, targeting the temples. Acoustic simulation is included to optimize targeting and effectiveness. An MR-compatible version of the device is available for precise positioning and integration with imaging. Additionally, the system incorporates facial recognition to facilitate individualized device registration and setup for each participant.
Contract 1
Supplier
Contract value
- £337,000 excluding VAT
- £337,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Earliest date the contract will be signed
30 May 2025
Contract dates (estimated)
- 30 May 2025 to 30 May 2026
- 1 year, 1 day
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 33124120 - Diagnostic ultrasound devices
Contract locations
- UKK41 - Plymouth
Participation
Particular suitability
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
- Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Direct award
Direct award justification
- Prototypes and development
- Defence and security - necessary to enhance or maintain operational capability, effectiveness, readiness for action, safety or security of the armed forces
This supplier is the sole owner and manufacturer of a multi-phased array system for human transcranial focused ultrasound research with 256 elements, with 128 elements positioned on each side of the head, targeting the temples.
Acoustic simulation is included to optimize targeting and effectiveness. An MR-compatible version of the device is available for precise positioning and integration with imaging.
Additionally, the system incorporates facial recognition to facilitate individualized device registration and setup for
each participant.
This device is a prototype designed for human use, specifically for non-invasive brain modulation. It is understood to be a prototype/novel good to be used for the purposes of research, experiment, study or development.
This allows for a direct award to a supplier under the Procurement Act 2023, Schedule 5, Paragraph 2 (c)
The device will be used by the University as part of the Advanced Research + Invention Agency (ARIA) funded research programme.
Further details; https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/news/6-5m-project-aims-to-revolutionise-mental-health-treatment-using-ultrasound
Additional Information:
No Preliminary Market Engagement Notice (UK2) has been issued due to the prototype nature of this goods.
Internal Conflict Assessment has been completed.
The Supplier is not understood to be an Excluded Supplier as defined by the Procurement Act 2023, Section 57
Supplier
Attune Neurosciences Inc
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PDPC-6183-TQJP
2325 3rd Street, Suite 424
San Francisco
94107
United States
Email: sales@attuneneuro.com
Website: http://www.attuneneuro.com
Small or medium-sized enterprise (SME): Yes
Voluntary, community or social enterprise (VCSE): No
Contract 1
Contracting authority
University of Plymouth
- UK Register of Learning Providers (UKPRN number): 10007801
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PQHL-4825-PGGL
Drakes Circus
Plymouth
PL4 8AA
United Kingdom
Email: supplier@plymouth.ac.uk
Website: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/
Region: UKK41 - Plymouth
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government