System for supporting workpieces

Method of modifying the three-dimensional shape of the cover of a system for supporting workpieces, the system comprising a base and a plurality of support members (1), each of the plurality of support members (1) comprising a plate (11) and means for positioning the plate (11) in relation to the base,

• wherein in at least some of the plurality of support members (1), the means for positioning the plate (11) comprises at least three extendable members (13) arranged for determining the position and inclination of the plate (11) in relation to the base, thereby allowing for controlled positioning of the plate (11) in relation to the base and for controlled inclination of the plates (11), and a flexible cover (2) supported by the plates (11), and in correspondence with the plates (11),
• wherein more than one of the at least some of the plurality of support members (1) include, in correspondence with the plate (11), at least one roller (12) for attachment to the flexible cover (2), the roller (12) being capable of rotation around at least one axis, the method comprising the steps of:
• modifying the position and inclination of a plurality of the plates (11) by selective extension and/or retraction of the three controllably extendable members (13), while allowing the rollers (12) to rotate;
• thereafter, blocking the rollers (12) so as to prevent them from rotating.