In our coverage of 3D printing, there is increasing interest in 3D scanners as a key source of digital input for both rapid prototyping and product development. From simple Kinect-based scanners to the MakerBot Digitizer to Kickstarter campaigns, it seems like more and more 3D scanners are coming to market.

In this article we profile Luxembourg-based Artec Group, a leader in 3D scanning and 3D facial recognition technology that has partnered with Hyundai Europe to help develop automobile seats.

Related: Will 3D Scanners Usher in a New Era of Copyright Infringement?

Two different Artec scanners are being used by Hyundai Motor Europe to create 3D models of automobile seats for new cars. These models can then be tested and modified for maximum safety and comfort.

The Artec L scanner captures the geometry of a seat from different angles. Then the smaller, intricate details of a seat are scanned with the Artec MHT scanner and the data is combined to make a complete, highly precise 3D model of the car seat.

Both scanning devices are portable and easy to use which means that they can be taken to different Hyundai locations.

Watch this narrated video to see how the Artec 3D scanners are used by Hyundai.

Learn more about Artec at www.artec3d.com.

Related articles:

• Radiant Fabrication Wants to Be the iTunes of 3D Printing
• Fuel3D Handheld 3D Scanner Closes in on $300,000 Kickstarter Funding
• MakerBot Digitizer Desktop 3D Scanner Goes On Sale for $1400, Video from Bre
• 3D Scanning for 3D Printing: How Kickstarter is Changing the Game
• Video: Burning Man Team Offers 3D Prints of Burners in the Desert
• Do The Mutation: 3D Printed Masks Take Art to a New Level of Personal
• The MakerBot Met Hackathon Spreads with Art Derivations