Abstract: The drilling apparatus of the present invention includes a platform and at least two independently adjustable members. The independently adjustable members position the platform relative to the structure such that the drilling tool is maintained in a predefined positional relationship to the surface of the structure. A portion of each of the independently adjustable members is in operable contact with the complexly curved surface at a respective contact point, and the independently adjustable members are capable of being extended by different lengths to the respective contact point in order to accommodate for the complexly curved surface. The method of the present invention includes determining the extension length required to position the drilling tool in the predefined positional relationship for each independently adjustable member based upon the radius of curvature at each member's contact point with the surface, and the predetermined distance between the drilling tool and each member.

Abstract: The drilling apparatus of the present invention includes a platform and at least two independently adjustable members. The independently adjustable members position the platform relative to the structure such that the drilling tool is maintained in a predefined positional relationship to the surface of the structure. A portion of each of the independently adjustable members is in operable contact with the complexly curved surface at a respective contact point, and the independently adjustable members are capable of being extended by different lengths to the respective contact point in order to accommodate for the complexly curved surface. The method of the present invention includes determining the extension length required to position the drilling tool in the predefined positional relationship for each independently adjustable member based upon the radius of curvature at each member's contact point with the surface, and the predetermined distance between the drilling tool and each member.