Tired of missing Kodak moments because of drained batteries? Researchers at Columbia University have invented the world's first self-powered camera. The light-powered prototype camera can power itself without the help of a battery.
Standard cameras' sensors use photodiodes to change light into electric current, according to Yahoo Tech. It then transforms the current into an image.
Solar cells convert light into electric energy in a similar way. So scientists have invented an image sensor that can switch between the two different tasks--basically powering itself while taking shots.
Shree Nayar, the research team leader, says that previous designs for energy-harvesting image sensors have been proposed already. However, his team's prototype is the first video camera that is fully self-powered, according to Tech Spot.
Nayar explains that the world in an "imaging revolution." Consumers want cameras to be a standalone tool.
In an indoor scene that is well-lit, the prototype can capture on image each second-forever. It uses a small 30x40 pixel sensor, which is contained in a 3D printed body.
The camera can also pull double duty by creating power for other small devices. They include smartphones and watches.
The current image quality of the new camera is expectantly quite grainy. However, more importantly it has several possible applications for devices always on, such as smartwatches, security cameras, and Internet of Things (IoT) gadgets.
Nayar's team will be presenting their findings at Rice University's International Conference on Computational Photography this month. Maybe one day battery-powered cameras will become as outdated as photographic film.