Shima Seiki
Shima Seiki Computerized Flat Knitting Machines are a leading line of industrial knitting machines developed by the Japanese manufacturer Shima Seiki. Renowned for setting a global standard in the industry, these machines are characterized by their advanced computer control, high efficiency, and innovative technologies like WHOLEGARMENT knitting.[1][2]
History
Shima Seiki entered the flat knitting machine industry in 1967.[2] Since then, the company has become a significant player, having sold over 200,000 knitting machines globally, including more than 10,000 WHOLEGARMENT knitting machines. The company holds over 4,500 patents related to knitting technology.[2]
Key Technologies and Features
Shima Seiki machines are designed for high performance and sustainability in apparel manufacturing.
WHOLEGARMENT Technology
A flagship innovation from Shima Seiki is its WHOLEGARMENT technology, which produces knitwear in one entire piece without the need for sewing. This seam-free production method contributes to sustainable manufacturing by eliminating material waste and enabling mass customization.[2]
Total Fashion System
Shima Seiki integrates its knitting machines with design systems and software to create a "Total Fashion System." This system aims to overhaul the entire plan-produce-sell process in apparel manufacturing, fostering a synergy that leads to smart, speedy, and sustainable production.[1][2]
Operational Advantages
The machines offer several operational benefits:
- High Cost Performance: Achieved through high knitting efficiency, stability in mass production, and a low defect rate.[2]
- Low Running Cost: Features include quick creation of knitting programs and power savings.[2]
- Consistent Quality: Known for long-lasting reliability and stable production of quality knit fabrics, often associated with "MADE IN JAPAN" manufacturing.[2]
- Sustainability: Measures include elimination of wasted labor and material, reduced fabric loss, and support for small-lot and on-demand production.[2]
- Quick Response: Supports Just In Time (JIT) production and short delivery times through efficient knitting and reduced post-production processes.[2]
Product Lineup
Shima Seiki offers a diverse range of computerized flat knitting machines to meet various customer requirements. These machines come in different dimensions and gauges, supporting a wide array of knitting applications.[3]
Examples of models include:
- NFIRST (e.g., 18G)[3]
- NMACH2SIR (e.g., 12G, 14G, 16G, 18G)[3]
- NSIR (e.g., 5G, 7G, 8G, 10G, 12G, 14G, 16G, 18G)[3]
- NSRY-LP (e.g., 7G, 10G, 12G, 14G, 16G)[3]
- NSSR (e.g., 7G, 8G, 12G, 14G, 16G)[3]
- NSVR (e.g., 5G, 18G, 22G)[3]
- SCG (e.g., 3G)[3]
- SVR202 (e.g., 7G, 10G, 12G, 14G, 16G)[3]
Applications
Shima Seiki computerized flat knitting machines are utilized across a broad spectrum of industries, reflecting their versatility and adaptability for various knit products:
- Fashion[1][2]
- Sports/Outdoors[1][2]
- Healthcare[1][2]
- Shoes and Accessories[1][2]
- Home Furnishings[1][2]
- Automotive[1][2]
- Aeronautical[1][2]
- Industrial Materials[1][2]
Support and Services
Shima Seiki provides a global user support system, including comprehensive maintenance programs, training tailored to customer needs, and a long-term supply of genuine parts.[2] The company also offers online services such as yarn sourcing (yarnbank®), digital content (SHIMANAVI®), e-learning, and knit production management software (SHIMA KnitManager™) to support users throughout the product supply chain.[1][2][4]
References
- ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 https://www.shimaseiki.com/ SHIMA SEIKI | Computerized Flat Knitting Machines, Design System/Software, CAD/CAM Systems
- ↑ 2.00 2.01 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 2.09 2.10 2.11 2.12 2.13 2.14 2.15 2.16 2.17 2.18 2.19 https://www.shimaseiki.com/product/knit/ Knitting Machines | Product | SHIMA SEIKI
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 https://www.shimaseiki.eu/en/products/flat-knitting-machines/ SHIMA SEIKI flat knitting machines | Advanced Knitwear
- ↑ https://shimaseikiusa.com/ Home - SHIMA SEIKI U.S.A. INC.