Technology has moved beyond the basics and today ‘Smart Technology’ that not only assists users in doing a perfect job, but also thinks for them giving easy solutions to time consuming and complex operations. Shima Seiki a leader in flatbed knitting and wholegarment technology is offering many new thinking technologies that meet the increasing need for speed, while also adding value and quality to the product… “As Shima Seiki keeps upgrading their technology from time to time, they depute their professionals to our training centre at Ludhiana for imparting training to our technical team in order to upgrade the technical skills of our staff who in turn extend training to the technical staff of our customers which is very essential keeping in mind that more and more customers are being added to our Privileged Customer’s list,” says Vaibhav Bahl of Janaksons.
SSR-112: Entry Level Flat Knitting Machine with Superior Cost Performance Ratio
Better known for its computerized flat knitting machines, Shima Seiki is presenting its entry point SSR-112 computerized flat knitting machine with superior cost performance ratio, bound to lead Shima Seiki’s efforts to penetrate both new and emerging markets with the same uncompromising technology and quality at an affordable price. With a 45 inch knitting width and an ultra compact double system carriage, the machine is compact and allows 15% more machines to be installed in the given floor space and is up to 25% more energy-efficient compared to the previous machines.
Explaining the vision behind the development of SSR-112, Vaibhav says, “In the last few years, due to the economic slowdown, production has been shifting towards manufacturing centres providing large quantities at a lower price. Even after the recovery of the economy, production has remained in these areas generating greater interest in capital investment to improve manufacturing capabilities. Therefore, demand for computerized knitting machines has increased especially in these emerging markets with the hand-flat knitting machines and mechanical machines being phased out by computerized ones with higher productivity.”
As an entry-level machine SSR-112 excels in basic knitwear production suited for specific needs of certain markets, providing quick mass-production of basic knitwear. High-speed knitting is possible with the proven R2CARRIAGEŠ (Rapid Response Carriage) system in the machine. To assure quality and consistency that is in demand for modem-day production centres, SSR112 features Shima Sheiki’s renowned DSCS Digital Stitch Control System as standard.
‘Affordable’ neither mean inexpensive nor simply higher cost-performance, especially when it involves advanced technology. What they have achieved is a new perception of value created by the tremendous benefits that are inherent to Shima Seiki products.
Comprehensive Design Solution: SDS-ONE APEX3
Among the most interesting offerings from Shima Seiki is the all-in-one designing and communication tool SDS-ONE APEX3 workstation, which not only speeds up the sampling process, but also saves resources for fashion design. The design software automats product planning, designing, patterning, knit programming, virtual sampling, production and merchandising into one comprehensive software replacing the conventional method of first sketching the sample and then selecting the design, material, texture, silhouette, colour, etc. which used to take about 2-3 weeks. “The SDS-ONE allows the sample to be developed virtually in just an hour to maximum two days depending upon the garment. Products in different colours and styles can be generated with a click,” says Vaibhav.
Assuring quality and consistency that is in demand for modern day production – SSR-112, the computerized flat knitting machine with superior cost performance ratio, is compact and saves floor space of up to 15% and energy by 25%
The most significant feature of the design solution is the visualisation of knitted samples of any type with the yarn and loop simulation feature. It is possible to make a customised yarn, by deciding the count, ply, twist, space dyed, mélange, plating and converting them into real image of knitted fabric. “The system has 1000 pre-loaded stitch patterns, presenting the designer with numerous options to experiment with,” adds Vaibhav.
Among the many advantages of using the SDS-ONE APEX3, the critical one is that it establishes a very easy communication between the designer and the factory to not only decrease the iteration but also improve the lead time. For knitwear (flatbed or circular), a generic machine code is generated to ensure that every design aspect, whether it is a cable or a colour accent, is spot on at the exact right position on the garment as it was designed on the SDS-ONE APEX3.
The story for SDS-ONE does not end with product development, but is carried forward to visual merchandising to design stimulation store displays and printing of high resolution graphics such as posters, catalogues. “It is a complete solution involving every member of the supply chain,” avers Vaibhav.
