An Aukland, New Zealand company called Disposable Video Camcorders recently applied for a patent on, you guessed it, a disposable camcorder. The disposable camcorders, like their disposable still photo cousins, will use a reinforced cardboard body that surrounds a video cassette. To eliminate the need for a battery, the camcorder will use a hand-cranked motor to power the video circuitry and tape transport mechanisms. When users open the case to retrieve the cassette, an electrical short circuit will melt the plastic guide-pin needed for the tape to run. The company didn't specify what format the camcorder would use, or the price of the unit. Look for them at amusement parks soon.
