Scope
Reference
4433/AMRC/GM/25
Description
The University of Sheffield's Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) is considering the future procurement of a robotic cell to support research into Digital Product Passports (DPPs)-digital records that capture key data about a product's materials, manufacturing history, and end-of-life options.
The proposed robotic cell would be located at our Factory 2050 facility and used to demonstrate automated disassembly of an electric motor. The system would read and write data throughout the process to support research into circular manufacturing and highlight how DPPs can enable more sustainable industrial practices.
The cell will also act as a demonstration platform for UK manufacturers, showcasing cutting-edge technologies that support the development and use of DPPs.
We are carrying out preliminary market engagement to better understand current capabilities and innovations available in the market. This early engagement will help shape a fair, open, and realistic procurement process.
We welcome input from potential suppliers and integrators on how their solutions could meet our initial needs. In particular, we would appreciate information on:
Relevant technologies or approaches
Indicative delivery timelines
Non-binding pricing guidance to support early budgeting
Please note: this is not a formal procurement exercise. No commitment is being made at this stage, and participation in this engagement will not give any advantage in any future procurement.
Any subsequent procurement process will be conducted in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023, ensuring transparency, equal treatment, and open competition.
If you have any questions or comments in relation to this tender they must be submitted via the In-tend System, this can be accessed at https://in-tendhost.co.uk/Sheffield
Closing date for receipt of expression of interest: June 13th, 2025 at 12:00 noon (UK Time)
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 September 2025 to 31 March 2026
- 7 months
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 30210000 - Data-processing machines (hardware)
- 30162000 - Smart cards
- 30233300 - Smart card readers
- 30233320 - Combined smart card and fingerprint readers
- 72300000 - Data services
- 72222300 - Information technology services
- 73000000 - Research and development services and related consultancy services
- 73100000 - Research and experimental development services
- 73200000 - Research and development consultancy services
- 73300000 - Design and execution of research and development
Contract locations
- UKE32 - Sheffield
Engagement
Engagement deadline
21 June 2025
Engagement process description
4433/AMRC/GM/25 Digital Product Passport (DPP)
The University of Sheffield wishes to invite tenders for a contract for supply of Digital Product Passport (DPP) on behalf of the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, Catcliffe, South Yorkshire.
Scope of Requirement
The University of Sheffield's Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) is exploring the procurement of a robotic cell to support research into Digital Product Passports (DPPs) - digital records that capture key information about a product's materials, manufacturing history, and end-of-life options.
The proposed cell will be installed in our Factory 2050 facility and used to demonstrate automated disassembly of an electric motor, reading and writing data throughout the process. This scenario supports research into circular manufacturing and showcases the role of DPPs in enabling sustainable industry practices.
The cell will also serve as a demonstration platform for UK manufacturers, highlighting innovative technologies linked to DPPs.
We invite early engagement from potential suppliers and integrators to inform the upcoming procurement process.
Tender Process and Documentation:
This procurement is an open procedure conducted in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023.
If you have any questions or comments in relation to this tender they must be submitted via the In-tend System, this can be accessed at https://in-tendhost.co.uk/Sheffield
Closing date for receipt of expression of interest: June 13th, 2025 at 12:00 noon (UK Time)
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
16 August 2025
Contracting authority
UNIVERSITY OF SHEFFIELD
- Companies House: RC000667
Firth Court, Western Bank
Sheffield
S10 2TN
United Kingdom
Email: procurement@sheffield.ac.uk
Website: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/
Region: UKE32 - Sheffield
Organisation type: Public undertaking (commercial organisation subject to public authority oversight)