Main Function of Machine Control Unit in CNC

[Jacob]

What is a machine control unit in CNC machining and what is its primary function?

[Mike James]

A CNC system’s heart is the machine control unit (MCU). It is used to carry out the following tasks:
• To decode the instructions.
• To decode the instructions that have been coded.
• To generate axis motion commands, use interpolations (linear, circular, and helical).
• To drive the axis mechanisms by feeding the axis motion commands to the amplifier circuits.
• To receive position and speed feedback signals for each driving axis.
• Auxiliary control functions such as coolant or spindle on/off and tool change must be implemented.
Computer Numerical Control is the abbreviation for Computer Numerical Control. A CNC machine is a machine that uses computers to drive a Numerical Control (NC) machine tool. In other words, CNC machine refers to the use of computers to control machine tools such as lathes, mills, slotters, and shapers.

[Allen Young]

The machine control unit (MCU) is a microcomputer that holds the software and causes the machine tool to carry out the commands. The data processing unit (DPU) and the control loops unit are the two primary components of the MCU (CLU). Control system software, calculation algorithms, translation software that translates the part program into a readable format for the MCU, interpolation algorithm to provide smooth cutter motion, and part program editing are all included in the DPU software (in case of errors and changes). The DPU interprets the data from the part program and sends it to the CLU, which controls the drives attached to the machine leadscrews and receives input on the axes’ real position and velocity. The leadscrew is equipped with a driver (dc motor) and a feedback device. The CLU includes circuits for position and velocity control loops, deceleration and backlash compensation, and function controls such spindle on/off.

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