The design methodology for the engineering systems of the surface plastic deformation (SPD) by the free-moving indenters is considered. It is based on the definition of the structural elements of the engineering system, the principles of its operation, and the linkage between individual elements, as well as on the estimation of the hardening component section and the development of the rational operation structure. The engineering system block scheme outlining is investigated in the form of an open-loop control system. It consists of the detecting elements included in it in the following order: primary (input) parameters — the SPD process — secondary (output) parameters. Physico-technological principles of a design as such are developed. It permits, firstly, to identify the functional relation between the elements, and secondly, to characterize them either quantitatively (describing through the equation connecting both the input and output parameters) or qualitatively. The justification of the component section and of the SPD hardening technique selection has permitted to formulate the design principles for the rational structure of the SPD operation (so that the post-treatment part could meet the specified design documentation requirements for quality and operational properties). The conditions for the building of a structure as such are shown. For this purpose, a minimum of necessary one or several SPD part processed component sections should be defined. Then, on the basis of the choice of methods, a structure to ensure the solution of the technological tasks with the best technical and economic parameters should be adopted.