4. Knitting Overview

Machinery offerings at the ITMA '99 in Paris were focused primarily on innovations to improve the science of knitting through control of the knitting process. These innovations will result in more flexibility to the knitter, more output in first quality fabrics, higher production efficiencies, higher production speeds, and more profit. Achievement of these goals is a direct result of the machinery manufacturers having engineered into the process the aspects of increased and improved automation, better-built machines, improved and 'next century' electronics, aerospace metals in machine components, and simplified operation. Versatility and the ability to change styles quickly were the main focus of most manufacturers of knitting machinery. In addition to manufacturing better machinery, the conunitment to partnerships between the machine manufacturer and the knitter has become a focus of the machinery companies. Custom building of cylinders and dials, take-ups, wider cylinder diameters, on-machine quality monitoring, and precision interchangeable parts are all examples of a commitment to the customer. Because of increased worldwide competition among knitters, it is imperative that the knitter be able to expand productivity, increase efficiency, and become both more versatile and flexible. These necessities for the knitter are more achievable than ever because of the offerings of the machinery manufacturers at ITMA '99.