A fixture device generally includes a base member, a reconfigurable pad
comprising a shape memory material configured to selectively conform to a
surface contour of a workpiece, and a thermoelectric unit in operative
communication with the shape memory material of the reconfigurable pad. A
process for operating a fixture device includes passing a current in a
first direction through a thermoelectric unit in operative communication
with a reconfigurable pad in an amount effective to heat a shape memory
material therein to or above a shape setting temperature, contacting a
surface of a workpiece with the reconfigurable pad, cooling the shape
memory material below the shape setting temperature, and fixturing the
workpiece with the fixture device.