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.