Abstract: A system for efficiently scanning and processing a workpiece, particularly logs or pieces cut from logs, wherein the workpiece is first scanned by projecting at least one plane light source at a first angle and detecting the intersection line of the plane of light and workpiece at a second angle. Signals representing points on the intersection line are corrected to compensate for errors in the scanning apparatus to generate signals representing spatial coordinates of the workpiece at the intersection line. The spatial coordinate representing signals are analyzed to generate processing control signals for controlling devices acting on the workpiece, such as automatic sawing equipment.