I do computerized embroidery as well as machining. I guess i'm addicted to motion control!?!?!?
Unfortunately, you cannot retrofit it with standard CNC controls. The reason is because in addition to X and Y movements, there are lots of other controls that get involved.
There is computerized tension, needle up down positions, thread cutter operation, thread movement sensors and many other things. Even though there are similarities, the differences are big enough that CNC and computerized embroidery are definitely in different spectrums.
Hope this helps,
Wade