Independent Feeding Device LLC

Independent Feeding Device LLC, doing business as Desin, LLC, is a for-profit limited liability partnership specializing in innovative assistive technology for individuals with mobility limitations, particularly focusing on adaptive feeding devices. Registered in SAM.gov since 2013, the company has developed the OBI robotic feeding device, which enables individuals with upper extremity strength and mobility challenges to eat independently. The company provides medical equipment and assistive technologies primarily to federal agencies like the Department of Veterans Affairs, with a mission of enhancing independence and quality of life for individuals with physical disabilities.

Through federal contract awards, Independent Feeding Device LLC has primarily supplied OBI self-feeding devices to the Veterans Health Administration. Their contract awards have been structured as small business set-asides, specifically utilizing GSA Multiple Award Schedule contracts. The company has secured delivery orders from Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISN), including VISN 19 and VISN 12, for providing robotic feeding technology to veteran healthcare facilities. These contracts involve supplying complete OBI feeding device packages, which include the device, plate, placemat, spoons, charger, and button switches, with contract values ranging from $34,000 to over $10 million.

The company has received federal grant funding from the National Institute on Aging to advance its technological capabilities. Specifically, a project grant of $306,872 aims to develop and test a sensor-driven robotic system that expands the OBI device's potential patient population. The grant, running from September 2025 to September 2026, involves collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University to integrate advanced visual sensors and AI models. The research focuses on creating automation capabilities that can help individuals with severe upper extremity motor impairments and minimal neck control to use the feeding device more effectively.

Independent Feeding Device LLC holds a Federal Supply Schedule contract, specifically under the Medical Equipment and Supplies category (FSS-65-II-A), with a substantial ceiling value of $10,496,000. This multiple-award contract, valid from February 15, 2025, to February 14, 2030, covers the procurement of the Obi Robotic Feeding Device across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. The contract includes provisions for return goods policy, warranty, expedited delivery, and standard shipping. It was awarded by Veterans Integrated Service Network 12 and allows for orders ranging from a minimum of $50 or 1 unit to a maximum of $50,000, demonstrating the company's capability to serve federal healthcare systems with specialized medical technology.

What is Obi?

Obi automates the dining experience for individuals who cannot feed themselves. Obi blends cutting edge robotics, elegant design, intuitive controls and personality to craft a dignified, independent dining experience.

Website: https://meetobi.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/obirobot

Why Obi?

With Obi, diners are empowered by the independence it provides; how easy and fun it is to use; its elegance and beauty; and its ability to restore the social interaction of dining with others.

Who can use Obi?

Individuals of all ages with conditions including amputation, ALS, Arthrogryposis, Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's, Spinal Injury, and Stroke can regain the ability to feed themselves.

Credentials:

In the USA, Obi is an FDA as a Class I medical device, is UL Certified for safety and holds 10 US Patents. Obi is CE Compliant and is currently being distributed in 17 countries.