Abstract: A machine tool is provided comprising a base, a slide assembly attached to the base for supporting a tool and translating the tool along an axis, and a workpiece holder attached to the base. At least one of the slide assembly and the workpiece holder are movable laterally with respect to the axis. Means are provided for aligning the slide assembly and the workpiece holder in a desired lateral relationship. A method of aligning a machine tool is also provided.

Abstract: A method is provided for centering a workpiece on a metal shaping machine. First and second guide plates have respective first and second aligned bores therein for supporting a centering pin mounted therein for axial movement between a retracted position and a use position. At least one spring is engaged with the centering pin for exerting a predetermined axial bias against the centering pin in the direction of the workpiece for urging the centering pin into the use position. The centering pin is locked in the use position during the operation of the machine on the workpiece.

Abstract: A method for finishing a part having excess material includes generating one or more surfaces on a model of the part to be machined, creating a machining tool path drive geometry, using the machine tool path drive geometry and one or more surfaces on the model to be machined to generate machining tool paths on the surfaces; and running tool paths on the part in a fixture.

Abstract: An apparatus for machining a turbine blade assembly including an airfoil and a dovetail, wherein the apparatus includes a fixture, at least one airfoil locator, at least one airfoil clamp, and at least one dovetail clamp assembly. The airfoil locator and the airfoil clamp are fixedly coupled to the fixture. The airfoil locator and the airfoil clamp are configured to secure the airfoil therebetween. The dovetail clamp assembly includes a clamp arm that is moveable with respect to the dovetail.

Abstract: A method enables a blade assembly to be secured for manufacture. The blade assembly includes an airfoil, a dovetail, and a platform extending therebetween. The method includes providing a fixture including at least one platform support assembly and at least one dovetail clamp assembly coupled to the fixture, wherein the platform support assembly includes a support member, a lever arm, and a biasing mechanism, locating the blade assembly within the fixture using a locator, positioning the platform support assembly against the blade assembly platform, and retaining the blade assembly in alignment with respect to the fixture using the at least one dovetail clamp assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for centering a workpiece on a machine tool that includes first and second guide plates having respective first and second aligned bores therein for supporting a centering pin mounted therein for axial movement between a retracted position and a use position. The centering pin cooperates with a workpiece such as a fan rotor blade of a turbine engine for positioning the workpiece in a predetermined position relative to a metal shaping operation to be carried out by the machine on the workpiece. At least one spring cooperates with the centering pin for exerting a predetermined axial bias for urging the centering pin into the use position. A lock locks the centering pin in the use position.