Casey Grothoff

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About

Casey Grothoff is a rising innovator at the intersection of assistive robotics and soft, adaptive materials. Their primary research focuses on developing novel, user-centered robotic systems that address critical challenges in mobility and daily living, with a standout emphasis on robot-assisted feeding technologies. Grothoff’s most notable contribution is the invention of the "Kiri-Spoon," a kirigami-inspired utensil that dynamically changes shape during use, enabling a robotic arm to more reliably scoop and secure food for individuals with limited upper-body mobility. This work, published in 2025, has already garnered early citations, signaling its potential to reshape assistive dining. By integrating principles of kirigami—the Japanese art of paper cutting and folding—into a functional robotic end-effector, Grothoff bridges mechanical design with practical, human-centered application. Their research not only advances the field of soft robotics but also directly addresses a pressing societal need: restoring independence to millions who struggle with self-feeding. As a researcher, Grothoff demonstrates a rare ability to translate elegant material science into tangible, life-improving tools, marking them as a promising voice in the future of assistive technology.