The Obi Dining Robot is the first dining robot of its kind and there is a special story behind its creation. The first Obi prototype was developed in 2006 by Jon Dekar, a University of Dayton engineering student who saw the challenges faced by people with disabilities, including his own grandfather who was diagnosed with a degenerative neuromuscular condition. Jon saw first hand how hard it was for his grandfather to eat independently, which led Jon to research what technology was available to help people to eat, who did not have full use of their upper extremities. Jon recognised there was an opportunity to “do something good for humanity” and after years of research, design, prototypes and testing, the first Obi was released in 2016.
Obi's design is as thoughtful as its purpose. When switched on, it gracefully greets the diner with a bow, a gesture inspired by the word “obeisance,” meaning respect or deference. It’s a small but powerful way to begin a meal with dignity and independence.