Scientists Develop a Modular Imaging System that Rearranges into Different Cameras

A research team from Columbia University developed Cambits, a modular imaging system that rearranges into different cameras with the help of different functional elements, DesignBoom writes.

The system consists of a set of colorful blocks, each having a certain function, such as sensors, light sources, and lenses. Depending on how users put the m together, they can build a camera that even makes panoramic or kaleidoscopic images.

“We wanted to redefine what we mean by a camera, — professor Shree Nayar says. — Traditional cameras are really like black boxes that take one type of image. we wanted to rethink the instrument, to come up with a hardware and software system that is modular, reconfigurable, and able to capture all kinds of images. We see Cambits as a wonderful way to unleash the creativity in all of us.”