Munchkin is a 4-DOF robotic feeding assistant that uses computer vision and intelligent automation to help individuals with limited mobility eat independently — with dignity.
Product photo coming soon
Munchkin was developed at Olin College of Engineering by mechanical engineering students Kilan Rougéot and Dhvan Shah. What started as an academic project evolved into a mission to bring meaningful assistive technology to people who need it most.
In April 2026 we formally established Munchkin LLC and received a Student Academic Grant to fund continued prototyping and development. We are actively seeking partners, investors, and clinical collaborators to help bring Munchkin to market.
Kilan Rougeot
Co-Founder · Mechanical Engineering
Dhvan Shah
Co-Founder · Mechanical Engineering
Team / device photo
Munchkin is engineered to be safe, intuitive, and adaptable to real-life needs.
Computer vision automatically detects and tracks the user's mouth in real time at 30 fps — no manual aiming needed.
Swap between a spoon and fork in seconds with the magnetic quick-release end effector — no tools required.
Onboard vision identifies food items on the plate and plans the optimal scooping path automatically.
An integrated display and accessible control buttons face the user directly, showing status and letting them initiate each feeding cycle.
A ring-based collapsible plate holder secures any standard plate or bowl — no special dishware needed.
A slim form factor folds for easy transport, and the built-in battery delivers up to 2 hours of continuous use on a single charge.
Munchkin is indicated for individuals living with conditions that affect arm or hand mobility. If you can chew and swallow independently, Munchkin can help you eat independently too.
Not sure if Munchkin is right for you? Send us a message — we're happy to discuss your specific situation.
We respect the devices that came before us. Munchkin is built to go further — smarter technology, greater autonomy, and a design that works with your life.
| Feature | Munchkin | Alternative Devices |
|---|---|---|
| Automatic mouth tracking | Computer vision, hands-free | Manual switch required |
| Automatic food detection | AI-powered plate scanning | 4 fixed food compartments |
| Works with any plate or bowl | Universal ring holder | Proprietary divided bowl |
| Fork & spoon interchangeable | Magnetic quick-swap | Spoon only (standard) |
| On-device display | User-facing screen | No display |
| Degrees of freedom | 4-DOF robotic arm | Limited range of motion |
| Battery life | 2 hours per charge | Not publicly specified |
| Developed with academic rigor | Olin College of Engineering | Established product |
Comparison based on publicly available information from leading alternative assistive feeding devices. Munchkin is currently in active development.
Munchkin is designed to be as simple to use as it is sophisticated under the hood.
Place your plate in the ring holder and power on Munchkin. The device homes itself and the camera maps the food on your plate.
Press the control button or use the on-screen prompt. Munchkin scoops a portion of food and tracks your face to deliver it precisely.
The arm extends to your mouth. Once you've taken the bite, it automatically retreats and reloads — ready for the next one.
Demo videos coming soon. Leave your email below to be notified when they go live, or request a live demo.
Full Demo — Meal Sequence
Facial Tracking Closeup
Tool Change Demo
Whether you're a clinician, caregiver, researcher, investor, or someone who could benefit from Munchkin — we'd love to hear from you. Reach out to request a demo, ask a question, or explore a partnership.