Abstract: A scanner profiling system for locating and "mapping" a selected "feature" in a three-dimensional object, which "feature" is nearest with respect to a defined datum plane. The system includes a laser-distancing-instrument (LDI), and a cooperating motor-driven mirror apparatus which is operated under digital computer control to shift the scan axis of the system, in preselected steps, throughout a defined scan field. Object "feature" location, and related scan orientation data which are obtained during a scanning operation, effect computer scan control, whereby scanning "attention", within the total scan field, is directed particularly to "track" the selected "feature".