SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD. of Wakayama, Japan will once again participate in the A+A 2017 Safety, Security and Health at Work International Trade Fair in Düsseldorf, Germany in October.

A wide range of work and safety use in knitted gloves is represented by two brand new machines capable of light- and heavy-duty applications. A 5-gauge version of SHIMA SEIKI's SWG-N2 series compact WHOLEGARMENT knitting machine can knit gloves using thick yarns as well as coarse gauge texture for heavy-duty applications. Besides gloves, the SWG-N2 series is capable of knitting a variety of other items in safety, sports, medical and other applications, from knit caps, balaclavas and lining for protective headgear, to various joint supports, leggings and footwear, all produced in one entire piece without the need for sewing afterward. On the other end of the spectrum is a brand-new 21-gauge glove knitting machine featuring 21-gauge knitting needles for knitting true 21-gauge fabrics, the first such application in the world. Also for the first time, a SHIMA SEIKI glove knitting machine features original belt-driven carriage technology that has been proven over the years in the company's renowned computerized flat knitting machines. Other new features include a removable needle selection drum for improved productivity and ease of maintenance, as well as a new control unit. Moreover, the ultra-fine gauge gloves it knits feature optimum fit and bare-hand sensitivity for preforming precision work. Both machines will be on display as prototype exhibits.

Also on display will be an updated version of SHIMA SEIKI's SDS-ONE APEX3 3D design system demonstrating its role in WHOLEGARMENT production through comprehensive support from planning and design to production and sales promotion, as well as its capability for Virtual Sampling. Ultra-realistic simulation capability allows Virtual Sampling to minimize the costly time- and resource-consuming sample-making process.