Abstract: An image processing system, panoramic camera, and method use multiple image processors to process image data from an image sensor to provide a panoramic image output of different resolutions depending on a mode of operation. None of the image processors are capable of outputting an image at a full resolution of the image sensor's output image data. Depending on the mode of operation, each image processor can process a portion of the image data output by the image sensor to produce a respective image that may be joined with the image(s) produced by the other processor(s) to create a full resolution image, or a less than a full resolution image can be produced by turning off one or more of the image processors.

Abstract: A modular camera system includes two panoramic camera modules and a base module. Each camera module has a field of view larger than 180°, such that both camera modules are able to capture a combined 360° field of view. At least one (and optionally both) of the camera modules is releasably attached to the base module. The camera module that is releasably attached includes a processor operable to synchronize image data generated from the other camera module with image data generated by its own camera module to produce combined image data representing a 360° field of view. The other camera module may also include a processor, such that the two processors may be dynamically switchable between acting as a main processor and acting as a secondary processor. The base module may provide electrical connections for both camera modules and include a rechargeable battery and/or removable non-volatile memory for file storage.