An innovative new type of camera has been developed called the Panoramic Ball Cam that is equipped with 36 mobile phone cameras and has been designed to be thrown into the air to capture 360-degree panoramic photographs.
When the ball has been thrown into the air, once it reaches its highest point, the Panoramic Ball Cam will then take a photograph using all 36 cameras and drops back into the hands of the user. Providing a complete 360-degree view of the environment which can then be downloaded to a computer for viewing via a custom piece of software. The mechanics of the Panoramic Ball Cam have been created using C, C++, QT, and OpenCV. Watch the video after the jump to see the innovative Panoramic Ball Cam in action.
How the Panoramic Ball Cam Works
The Panoramic Ball Cam creates some very special and original photography as you can see. The development is a project that was started back in 2010 and is patent-pending technology and originally called “Throwable Camera Array for Capturing Spherical Panoramas” which was authored by Jonas Pheil. The device is ingeniously designed to capture images at the peak of its flight, ensuring that the photos are taken when the ball is momentarily stationary. This method reduces motion blur and provides a clear, comprehensive view of the surroundings.
The ball’s internal sensors, including accelerometers and gyroscopes, help determine the exact moment to capture the image. This ensures that the 36 cameras are synchronized perfectly to create a seamless panoramic image. The captured images are then stitched together using advanced algorithms in the custom software, resulting in a high-resolution, 360-degree photograph.
Applications and Potential Uses
The Panoramic Ball Cam has a wide range of potential applications. For instance, it can be used in real estate to provide potential buyers with a comprehensive view of a property. By capturing a 360-degree image, realtors can offer virtual tours that give a true sense of the space. Similarly, it can be used in tourism to capture stunning panoramic views of landmarks and natural wonders, providing a more immersive experience for viewers.
In addition to commercial uses, the Panoramic Ball Cam can be a valuable tool for researchers and scientists. For example, environmental scientists can use it to document and monitor ecosystems, capturing detailed images of flora and fauna in their natural habitats. Archaeologists can also benefit from this technology by documenting excavation sites in a way that traditional cameras cannot.
Moreover, the Panoramic Ball Cam can be a fun and innovative gadget for personal use. Imagine capturing a family gathering, a wedding, or a sporting event with a single throw of the ball. The resulting images would provide a unique and memorable perspective that traditional cameras simply cannot offer.
The Panoramic Ball Cam represents a significant advancement in photography technology. Its ability to capture 360-degree images with ease and precision opens up new possibilities for both professional and amateur photographers. As the technology continues to develop, we can expect to see even more innovative uses and applications for this remarkable device.
Source: Slashgear
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