Seeed Studio Unveils the Future of Smart Cameras: Meet the reCamera
Introduction to the Advanced AI Camera
Seeed Studio is gearing up to launch what it describes as the "most advanced AI camera," the reCamera. This modular RISC-V smart camera platform aims to revolutionize device performance by running computer vision and artificial intelligence (CV and AI) models directly on the device, powered by an integrated accelerator capable of one tera-operations per second (TOPS).
Bridging the Gap Between Processing and Imaging
The essence of the reCamera lies in its unique architecture, which combines a powerful processor with a high-quality camera sensor. As Seeed Studio puts it, "Today, as processors (both SOC [System-on-Chip] and MCU [Microcontroller Unit]) are becoming smaller and more powerful, it is now possible to combine the processor with camera sensors." This breakthrough aims to accelerate AI detection capabilities in edge devices, offering an open-source platform that is accessible for experimentation and development.
Seeed Studio prepares to launch a modular smart camera system for edge AI projects, dubbed the reCamera.
A Modular Design for Versatility
What sets the reCamera apart from other smart camera systems on the market is its compact and modular design. The system is composed of three distinct boards: the Core Board, Sensor Board, and Base Board.
- The Core Board houses the processor, local storage solutions, and optional Wi-Fi connectivity.
- The Sensor Board is designed to support a variety of image sensors, including both rolling- and global-shutter variants.
- The Base Board integrates USB Type-C and UART serial connectivity along with microSD Card storage options.
Core Board: Power Meets Flexibility
Two variants of the Core Board will hit the market, but only one will be available at the time of launch. The model C1_2002w will feature eMMC storage along with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) capabilities. A subsequent version, the C1_2002, will provide additional SDIO and UART connectivity at the cost of the Wi-Fi/BLE module. Both variants are powered by the Sophgo SG2002, a dual-core chip that combines an Arm Cortex-A53 or T-Head XuanTie C906 RISC-V core with an MCS-51 8051-compatible microcontroller and a TOPS neural coprocessor for machine learning tasks.
The reCamera is split across three modular boards for enhanced functionality.
Sensor Board Options for Enhanced Imagery
At launch, the Sensor Board will include only one option: the S1_OV5647, a five-megapixel rolling-shutter image sensor. However, two additional Sensor Boards are currently under development: the S2_IMX335, utilizing a Sony IMX335 rolling-shutter sensor, and the S3_SC130GS, featuring a one-megapixel global shutter for capturing entire images in a single shot, sacrificing resolution for speed.
Base Board: The Connectivity Hub
The Base Board serves as the connectivity hub, offering a microSD Card slot alongside an Ethernet single-port transformer module, USB Type-C connectivity, and UART serial bus support. Several variants are also planned:
- The B2 adapts the side-mount USB Type-C port to a vertical orientation.
- The B3_POE eliminates the USB connection in favor of an Ethernet port with Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) support.
- The B4_Gyro includes an onboard gyroscope and a CAN bus connector, making it ideal for various applications.
User-Friendly Operating System
All components of the reCamera are managed through a Linux buildroot system known as reCamera OS. This operating system features a web interface that allows users to configure networks, monitor live video feeds, and control the camera through a browser-based command line. The performance accelerator is compatible with popular frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch.
Related Projects Enhancing the Ecosystem
Seeed Studio has also introduced three auxiliary projects related to the reCamera:
- The reCamera Gimbal, an open-source motorized gimbal mount designed for stability.
- The reCamera Industrial, providing a rugged housing suitable for harsh environments and capable of supporting interchangeable lenses.
- The reCamera Robot Arm, which incorporates the camera into a robotic arm setup, expanding its application possibilities.
Affordable Pricing Strategy
The launch pricing for the reCamera is set to attract enthusiasts and developers alike. The non-WiFi/BLE version, featuring 8GB of eMMC storage, will retail for $34.90, while the Wi-Fi/BLE model with 64GB of eMMC storage will be priced at $54.90. In a bid to foster early adoption, Seeed is offering discount coupons that cut 50% off the highest-tier model for a mere $5, available for a limited number of early-bird buyers.
Connecting with Developers and Creators
For those interested in deeper engagement with the reCamera project, additional information is readily available on Seeed’s GitHub repository. Here, developers can find released design files under the Apache 2.0 license, along with the reCamera OS in a separate repository. Innovators eager to test the product ahead of the official release can apply to become alpha testers through a dedicated signup form.
Ecosystem Development Beyond the Camera
Seeed Studio’s reCamera is not just about the camera itself; it represents a broader ecosystem of devices and tools designed to empower creators and developers. Through its modular approach, Seeed enables users to adapt the camera to a variety of applications, from industrial monitoring to creative explorations in machine learning and robotics.
Future-Proof Technology Built for Innovation
With advancements like the one TOPS accelerator and open-source design philosophy, the reCamera paves the way for future innovations in smart camera technology. As processors evolve, Seeed Studio’s commitment to modularity ensures that users can keep their systems up to date with the latest advancements without the need for complete hardware overhauls.
The Promise of Open Source
The race for advanced AI camera technology often attracts numerous players, but the open-source nature of the reCamera sets it apart. By encouraging community involvement and contributions, Seeed Studio is fostering a collaborative environment where creativity and technical innovation can flourish, ultimately leading to enhanced capabilities across a diverse array of projects.
A Call to Action for Tech Enthusiasts
For technology enthusiasts and developers, the reCamera represents more than just a new gadget; it symbolizes an opportunity to participate in a growing community that embraces innovation. Whether you’re an AI researcher, a robotics developer, or a hobbyist, the reCamera is poised to become an essential tool in your toolkit.
Conclusion: The Next Leap in AI Imaging
In conclusion, as Seeed Studio launches the reCamera, it carries with it the potential to transform how we approach imaging and AI applications. By combining hardware power with an open-source spirit, the reCamera stands ready to play a pivotal role in the future of smart camera technology, inviting everyone to explore, create, and innovate within its modular framework. This new platform promises not only to meet the demands of today’s developers but also to adapt to the rapidly changing technological landscape of tomorrow.
