FlatCam – A lensless camera with pinholes on the sensor

Newly invented at RICE University, the FlatCam is a camera that doesn’t use traditional lens to capture images. Instead it uses a thin coded mask with pinholes positioned very close to the image sensor.

Taking the roots from pinhole cameras – currently in prototype, the FlatCam is built up with sensor chip but with no lens on the unit. Also unlike a single pinhole from the heritage, the new prototype image sensor chip uses a grid-like mask with multiple apertures where each allows different light to pass through it and hit the sensor’s surface.

Raw data collected by the sensor is sent to the processor to be processed – this prototype uses a desktop computer as processor, and turn the light into a digital photograph. Like light field cameras such as Lytro, the photos captured by FlatCam would allow to refocus objects in it afterwards.

As claimed, due to the fact of being much thinner physically, the camera would allow to be used on wearable, foldable or disposable components. Interestingly, they even could be used in curved objects, flat cards – say credit cards.

FlatCam Samples

As the technology is still under development, the FlatCam prototype can shoot images of 512×512 resolution in seconds. Sure the higher and better resolution is one of the first priorities of the makers which come with better hardware and software.

Watch the video below to know more abut the camera and the technology being used. Or find the source link after the break.

With hopes of the improved photo quality for consumers or professionals, the technology sure would make its place in security, silent or hidden cameras.