Japan's Shima Seiki presents next-gen prototypes at ITMA 2023

The next generation group of machines is represented by the letter ‘R’ which stands for ‘Reborn’ and is also the basis for Shima Seiki's exhibit concept: ‘Shima Seiki Reborn.’

Shima Seiki Reborn represents a return to origin, for the company and for its products, and a renewal of passion and commitment toward innovation. At the same time, it represents a renewal of Shima Seiki's commitment to its customers, the industry and the environment, as all aspects of each machine were re-evaluated in terms of its purpose, the way it is manufactured, how it is used and how it impacts the environment. That renewal has been applied to the company's entire product line-up from Wholegarment knitting machines to shaping machines, glove knitting machines, and even computerised cutting machines, have undergone complete re-evaluation, Shima Seiki said in a press release.

Of the 9 knitting machines Shima Seiki is exhibiting at its 600 square-metre booth, 8 machines are a part of the next-generation line-up. More than 300 items are on display as proposals for knitted applications in various fields ranging from fashion, sports, shoes, bags, and accessories to medical, safety, automotive, aeronautical and other wearable and industrial textile applications.

In addition to machine technology, Shima Seiki's computer graphic design system and software are being shown with their latest software upgrades that feature significant improvements in knit programming, 3D functions, and speed. Demonstrations are available for a comprehensive fashion tech solutions package based on realistic virtual sampling and supported by various digital solutions and web services.

Re-evaluated from the ground up, the R-series machines have been revamped across its entire line-up, from Wholegarment knitting machines and shaping machines to glove knitting machines, resetting the standard for computerised knitting across the board. Each machine is also a testbed for new features, awaiting feedback from visitors at ITMA.

With nearly 30 years in garment knitting technology, Shima Seiki's 5th generation Wholegarment knitting machine, SWG-XR, offers superior speed, efficiency, quality, and reliability. Its enhancements include a new sinker system, lightweight carriage, auto yarn carriers, and a broader range of yarn compatibility. This increases productivity by over 25 per cent compared to the previous MACH2XS machine and allows knitting of previously impossible designs. The SWG-XR also features new user interface and defect detection capabilities, marking it a standard-bearer for sustainable, waste-free knitting.

Revamping the legendary SES series, Shima Seiki is presenting the SES-R, a new-generation shaping machine. The SES-R features an enhanced sinker system for better dimensional sinker patterns and flechage/short-row knitting. Alongside auto yarn carriers and new loop pressers, the SES-R significantly boosts productivity, especially for intarsia, inverse plating, and inlay knitting, setting a new standard in knitting technology.

Shima Seiki's i-DYCS is a new addition to the SWG-XR Wholegarment knitting machine, enabling on-the-fly yarn changes. Supporting up to 8 colours per unit with 2 units on each side, it allows for a total of 32 colours. Coupled with the 12 remaining carriers on the SWG-XR, up to 44 colours can be used in a single garment, a significant upgrade in Wholegarment knitting machine technology.

Shima Seiki's N.SIR123SP is a computerised knitting machine with intarsia capability that can produce hybrid inlay fabrics. It features a unique loop presser bed, i-Plating option, and a spring-type movable sinker system.

The SFG-R and SPG-R are new glove knitting machines with enhanced design potential, improved fit, and more color options. The SFG-R targets both the work and fashion glove markets, while the SPG-R, previously used for work gloves, can now create fashionable gloves and mittens, the release added.

The SDS-ONE APEX4 and APEXFiz are digital design tools that revolutionise the fashion industry. These systems allow for realistic virtual sampling, effectively reducing time, cost, and material waste. The software supports the full fashion workflow from planning to production, bridging the gap between design studio and factory. With demand forecasting, inventory is optimised, minimising waste. New enhancements further improve the realism of virtual samples and reduce lead times for intarsia programming.

Shima Seiki is introducing its unique digital platforms: Yarnbank, Shima Datamall, and Shima KnitManager. The Yarnbank allows users to access the latest yarns and use the data in fabric simulations for accurate virtual sampling. Shima Datamall offers an online platform with over 8,000 pieces of data for fashion item planning, production, and sales. Shima KnitManager is a production management software providing visual data to maximise productivity in the flat knitting industry.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DP)