RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
JOINT INDUSTRY-UNIVERSITY PROJECT
Technische Universität Dresden
At Dresden Technical University of Dresden, Germany, a set of SHIMA SEIKI knitting machine and design system is used in the research and development of various knitted applications for a variety of materials.
Drexel University
Drexel University of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is home to the SHIMA SEIKI HAUTE TECHNOLOGY LABORATORY, a new cross-discipline laboratory that aims to nurture new ways of thinking. Several WHOLEGARMENT knitting machines and design systems are used by faculty and students not only of textiles, but of biotechnology, computer science and other departments as well.
North Carolina State University
NC State University College of Textiles in Raleigh, North Carolina, is the global leader in textile education, research and service. The College’s unique professional training and pilot production facilities enable students and partners to learn and develop skills in an environment that spans the laboratory, design studio and model production facilities that cut across the entire textile supply chain. Students, faculty researchers and industry partners use various SHIMA SEIKI machines, learning the design and programming of flat knitted 3D technical textiles to produce products for niche applications.
SPECIAL PROJECTS
As leading technologist in the field of flat knitting, which among textile manufacturing methods is the only type capable of forming shapes directly on the machine, SHIMA SEIKI supports all aspects of new development, from testing new materials to producing prototypes, offering technical support for mass-production as well as consulting at all levels and participating in joint projects. With our own design and development department, as well as our own manufacturing facilities, not to mention an in-house manufacturing rate of over 70 per cent, SHIMA SEIKI can offer flexible original solutions and contribute to intellectual creativity.
MATERIAL APPLICATIONS
In the field of technical textiles, new ideas for fabrics and products utilizing new materials are constantly under consideration. That is why at SHIMA SEIKI we are involved not only in knitting machine development for handling new materials, but also in the development of new materials together with spinning companies.
2D Shaping
For flat, two-dimensional pieces, shaping is performed by such knitting techniques as narrowing and widening. Other methods include the use of moulds, or materials that fuse or harden when heated, such as those used in embossed knits and spacer fabrics.
3D Shaping
With pattern-based 3D design and programming, along with 3D shaping made possible with WHOLEGARMENT knitting, the range of knitted applications in the industrial textile area will surely expand. Because each item can be produced in its entirety, there is no need for cutting or sewing of parts, and edges do not require any further processing.
We can tailor solutions to fit each customer's requirements.
Please feel free to contact us.
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