Leading computerized knitting machine manufacturer SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD. of Wakayama, Japan will participate in the ITM 2022 International Textile Machinery Exhibition in Istanbul, Turkey this month.

A prominent market for SHIMA SEIKI computerized knitting machines with both an established export base to Europe as well as a vibrant domestic market, Turkey continues to be a high-profile target market for the company's WHOLEGARMENT knitting technology.

To that end, SHIMA SEIKI will exhibit a wide range of its products, including proposals in seam-free WHOLEGARMENT knitting technology that offers an alternative to labor-intensive manufacturing in Turkey and other international markets. Featured is the flagship MACH2XS WHOLEGARMENT knitting machine with original SlideNeedle on four needle beds and spring-loaded moveable sinkers with expanded patterning capability, the MACH2VS V-bed machine for producing WHOLEGARMENT items using every other needle, as well as the compact SWG091N2 for producing smaller WHOLEGARMENT items and accessories. A brand new proposal in V-bed WHOLEGARMENT knitting will also be introduced in the form of the N.SVR183 machine. N.SVR123SP features a special loop presser bed that can produce hybrid inlay fabrics with both knit and weave characteristics. N.SVR123SP at ITM will feature the special i-Plating option, capable of alternating yarn colors in any pattern, producing jacquard-like designs using plain jersey stitch for even greater diversity in knit design. Meanwhile N.SSR112 offers industry-leading technology in an economical yet reliable package made in Japan. Also on display is the SFG20 glove knitting machine.

Demonstrations will be performed on SHIMA SEIKI's SDS-ONE APEX4 design system. At the core of the company’s "Total Fashion System" concept, SDS-ONE APEX4 provides comprehensive support throughout the production supply chain, integrating production into one smooth and efficient workflow from yarn development, product planning and design, to production and even sales promotion. Especially effective is the way SDS-ONE APEX4 improves on the design evaluation process with its ultra-realistic simulation capability, whereby virtual samples replace physical sampling, consequently reducing time, cost and material that otherwise go to waste. The same capability is present in APEXFiz subscription-based design software. Installed on personal computers, APEXFiz features the same functionality as SDS-ONE APEX4, but with the added versatility to adapt to different work styles and business environments including teleworking and telecommuting. Digital prototyping using virtual samples on SDS-ONE APEX4 and APEXFiz help to digitally transform the fashion supply chain for realizing sustainable manufacturing. APEXFiz will be shown along with SHIMA SEIKI’s yarnbank digital yarn web platform that further enhances the realism of virtual samples.