A hard metal or non-metal member can be formed or shaped to have varying amounts
of curvature and tapering by passing the member through a forming channel defined
by two sets of opposed, axially displaceable rollers which can be dynamically moved
horizontally and vertically in a predetermined range. The rollers are controlled
by a computer, a translator, and a electro-mechanical displacement system such
as a servo motor. Using data input by a user or preprogrammed instructions containing
displacement instruction in the computer, the computer can subsequently instruct
servo motors, via a translator, to move the rollers in the available axial directions.
The servo motors may include a mechanism for converting rotational movement into
fine linear mechanical movement of the rollers. The timing and rate of movement,
direction, and force of the roller can be controlled to form and shape the member
into a specific contour of curves or tapering sides.