# Flattened Compact Cameras The FlatCam is Targeted For Use in Disaster Relief & Security Operations By Rahul Kalvapalle | Published 2015-11-25 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/flatcam References: [gizmag](http://www.gizmag.com/slim-flatcam-lens-free-camera/40579/) & [news.rice.edu](http://news.rice.edu/2015/11/23/no-lens-no-problem-for-flatcam-2/) Engineers at [Rice University](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/Meta-NFS) have developed the FlatCam, a camera that is devoid of all the [chunky lens attachments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/polaroid-flip-instant-camera) and accessories that are often unnecessary, not to mention undeniably bulky. The FlatCam is equipped with a special mask situated right over its off-the-shelf sensor. The mask features a grid-like arrangement of small aperture sizes that allow light in and onto the sensor. Data is then relayed to a desktop camera where the image is constructed. The FlatCam is currently capable of producing images with a 512 x 512 resolution in a matter of seconds, although this will surely improve going forward. This ultra-thin camera could be very useful in the [security and disaster relief sectors](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tapo-c545d-security-camera) because of its portability and the fact that it's rather difficult to detect, though it could also prove to be a great learning tool. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.4/10 - Popularity: 10% | Activity: 24% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Photography](https://www.trendhunter.com/photography) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Flatcam Technology:** The FlatCam's innovative grid-like aperture mask enables compact and lightweight cameras for various industries. - **Portable Imaging Solutions:** The development of flat and slim cameras opens up opportunities for security and disaster relief operations. - **Discreet Surveillance Equipment:** The FlatCam's minimalistic design offers a practical and inconspicuous option for surveillance and security applications. ### Who This Affects Most - **Security:** The FlatCam's compactness and inconspicuousness make it ideal for surveillance and security professionals. - **Disaster Relief:** FlatCam technology can assist disaster relief teams with portable imaging solutions in challenging environments. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Foldable Structural Security Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/psync-genie-s.md) - [Industrial Interchangeable Lens Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/interchangeable-lens-cameras.md) - [Translucent Pocket Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/clearcam.md) - [Smartphone-Friendly Action Cams](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/domono-smart-camera.md) - [Tactile Digital Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/camera-1.md) - [Futuristic AI Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ai-camera-concept.md) - [Blockish Multipurpose Action Cams](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/microsoft-lumia-action-cam.md) - [Eco-Friendly Paper Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/paper-camera.md) - [Lens-Integrated Travel Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/travel-camera.md)