Leading flat knitting machine manufacturer SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD. of Wakayama, Japan together with its U.K. subsidiary SHIMA SEIKI EUROPE LTD. will hold a private exhibition at their revamped showroom next month. On display will be the cutting edge in flat knitting technology, represented by the latest WHOLEGARMENT machine and design system. The exhibition will be a showcase for the company's diverse line-up of its latest computerised flat knitting machines. The flagship MACH2X series features SHIMA SEIKI's original SlideNeedle on four needlebeds and is the only machine suited to WHOLEGARMENT knitting in all needles.
The new compact SWG-N2 series WHOLEGARMENT knitting machine offers increased color capacity as well as the capability for producing industrial textiles. SRY123LP features a pair of loop presser beds mounted above a conventional V-shaped needlebed and is capable of producing unprecedented knitwear with woven textures as well as technical textiles. The new SVR workhorse series resets the industry benchmark once again for shaping machines in the tradition of SHIMA SEIKI's legendary SES and SSG machines. Also noteworthy is SHIMA SEIKI's unique SIP flatbed inkjet printing machine, shown for the first time in the U.K. The SIP features a height adjustable printing head that allows for printing onto 3D textures, as well as finished products such as WHOLEGARMENT items. Combined with the SDS-ONE APEX3 3D design system, a fully integrated manufacturing system realizes full-colour value-added garments to be designed, colour-matched, modeled in 3D, printed and approved with significantly shortened lead times compared with traditional methods.
Demonstrations will also be performed on the APEX3 system that is at the core of the company's "Total Knitting System" concept. With comprehensive support of the knit supply chain, APEX3 integrates knit production into one smooth and efficient workflow from planning and design to machine programming, production and even sales promotion. Virtual Sampling through photo-realistic simulation minimises the need for sample-making, effectively reducing time, material and cost from the sampling process. APEX3 also supports design and simulation in various other industries such as circular knitting, weaving, pile weaving and printing. Also on display will be the latest collection of seam-free WHOLEGARMENT knitwear that feature superior fit, comfort and draping characteristics. New solutions in knitwear design, shaping techniques and material selection will be presented to provide hints to Users for further maximising the benefits of WHOLEGARMENT knitting technology.
