Leading computerized knitting machine manufacturer SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD. of Wakayama, Japan, together with its Hong Kong subsidiary SHIMA SEIKI (HONG KONG) LTD., will participate in the 34th Session of SPIN EXPO in Shanghai, China in September.

SHIMA SEIKI will show the latest version of its "SDS-ONE APEX series" 3D design system. APEX is at the core of SHIMA SEIKI's "Total Fashion System" concept, made possible through its comprehensive support of the knit apparel production process from planning and production to sales promotion. Furthermore its capability for virtual sampling is especially effective in streamlining the production process. Ultra-realistic simulation capability allows the use of virtual samples for evaluating design variations without producing actual samples for each variation, thereby minimizing the time, cost and resources normally required with sample-making, supporting smart, speedy and sustainable apparel production.

The key to realistic knit simulation is in the yarn, which is digitalized by scanning actual yarn. As powerful support of this process, SHIMA SEIKI will preview its brand new "yarnbank" digital yarn sourcing website at SPIN EXPO. With yarnbank, users can search and download digital yarn data for use in virtual sampling on APEX. Downloading yarn data reduces the need for scanning yarns manually, while accuracy of simulations as well as efficiency in product planning is improved. For the yarn company, yarnbank provides a brand new channel for sales promotion. With yarnbank, the entire supply chain from yarn companies and apparel companies to knit manufacturers can be connected digitally.

Also on display will be the latest collection of knit samples, including WHOLEGARMENT knitwear that is knit in its entirety on the machine without the need for linking or sewing afterward. Without seams, WHOLEGARMENT knitwear features superior fit, comfort and draping characteristics.