Method and apparatus for impacting metal parts for aerospace applications

A method for changing physical characteristics of a metal workpiece having a surface, the method comprising the steps of:

• supporting the workpiece;
• providing a controller;
• providing the controller with adjustable parameters for changing physical characteristics of the workpiece;
• applying multiple impacts to the surface of the workpiece;
• controlling the applying step with the controller having the adjustable parameters for changing physical characteristics of the workpiece;
• and
• holding the workpiece on the support using elongated clamps.

A method for changing physical characteristics of a metal workpiece having multiple surfaces until a final metal component is achieved, the method comprising the steps of:

• pre-loading the workpiece for forming a preliminary contour on the workpiece;
• supporting the workpiece having the preliminary contour;
• providing a controller;
• providing the controller with adjustable parameters for changing physical characteristics of the workpiece having the preliminary contour;
• applying multiple impacts to a surface of the workpiece;
• and
• controlling the applying step with the adjustable parameters for changing physical characteristics of the workpiece until the final metal component is achieved.