In the operation and control system of machining centers, the graphic display module of the CNC panel is the core carrier of human-computer interaction, and its performance directly affects the operation efficiency and machining accuracy. The core function of this module is to present the instruction information, equipment operation status, and processing data of the CNC system to the operator in an intuitive graphical form. Its implementation relies on the complete technical chain of "data processing signal conversion image output".
From the perspective of graphic display principles, the display process of CNC panels can be divided into three key stages. Firstly, there is the data acquisition and processing stage. The central processing unit (CPU) of the CNC system will collect real-time operating parameters such as the coordinate position, spindle speed, and feed rate of the machine tool, while also receiving machining trajectory data from the programming system. These raw data need to be formatted and optimized by a dedicated graphics processing unit (GPU) to convert numerical information into graphics instructions that comply with display standards, such as converting processing path coordinates into pixel coordinate sequences. Next is the signal conversion process, where the processed graphic instructions are converted into analog or digital signals through the display controller. Among them, digital signals (such as HDMI and LVDS formats) have become the mainstream choice due to their strong anti-interference ability and high transmission efficiency. Finally, there is the image output stage. After the display driving circuit receives the signal, the pixel units of the driving panel emit light or change color, forming a dynamic graphical interface, such as processing trajectory simulation, real-time display of coordinate values, and fault alarm prompts.
In terms of display technology applications, there are currently two main display schemes used for CNC panels in machining centers. One type is liquid crystal display (LCD) technology, which occupies the machining center market with its advantages of low power consumption, high resolution, and wide viewing angle. This type of panel usually adopts TFT-LCD (Thin Film Transistor Liquid Crystal Display) structure, which achieves pixel control by controlling the deflection of liquid crystal molecules, and can clearly present complex processing graphics and parameter tables. Another type is organic light-emitting diode (OLED) technology, which has the characteristics of self luminescence, fast response speed, and high contrast. It performs outstandingly in scenarios that require fast dynamic display (such as high-speed processing trajectory tracking), but due to cost limitations, it is currently mostly used in customized machines.
With the development of industrial intelligence, CNC panel graphic display technology is evolving in two directions. On the one hand, it is the integration of display functions. In the future, the panel will not only present processing data, but also combine with machine vision systems to display real-time workpiece detection images, realizing the same screen interaction of "processing detection" data; On the other hand, the convenience of display interaction will be further integrated with touch technology and voice control. Operators can directly adjust graphic display parameters through gestures, improving the efficiency of human-computer interaction. The development of these technologies will drive the transformation of machining center CNC panels from "data display tools" to "intelligent interaction centers".