08/03/2022 – Warp knitting — auf Deutsch lesen
Patterning from the cloud
Karl Mayer’s first Smart Machine function revolutionizes the way of guide bar control. Pattern changes are possible in a matter of seconds trough online handling.
With SwapKnit, Karl Mayer offers their costumers a new, fast and flexible way to purchase lappings for the HKS 3-M ON online in order to then be able to change them at the machine directly in a few seconds only. © Karl Mayer
Kay Hilbert, Product Owner Global Tricot Machines at Karl Mayer: “We want maximum efficiency with minimum operating effort.” © Karl Mayer
The new patterning concept manages completely without pattern discs, but still enables the high operating speeds typical of mechanical guide bar drives. The basis for this is the networking of the machine via the k.ey device with the KM.ON cloud.
SwapKnit can be used for the production of new or tried-and-tested articles with pattern repeats of up to 36 stitch courses. The required lapping data is acquired with just a few clicks in KARL MAYER's WEBSHOP SPARE PARTS and loaded directly from the KM.ON cloud. This enables pattern changes in a matter of seconds. Lengthy ordering processes, costs for transport and warehousing, and time-consuming manual interventions on the machine, as is usual when using pattern discs, are eliminated and replaced by extremely convenient, efficient online handling.
Newcommer HKS 3-M ON
The precision of the information for controlling the guide bars has remained unchanged. With the help of Karl Mayer’s special know-how, the curve course is optimally matched to the knitting motion, gauge and guide bars of the machine to ensure the highest speeds. The first tricot machine with SwapKnit function is the HKS 3-M ON. With the electronic curves and a likewise electronic high-performance drive for the guide bars, the newcomer achieves a speed of up to 2,900 min-1.
Further steps to follow
As the first Smart Machine offering, SwapKnit marks the start of digital innovations with which Karl Mayer offers its customers more benefits from its machines. Further innovations will follow.
“In our development activities, in addition to the important topics such as more speed and flexibility, we also have simplified handling and the possibilities of automation in mind. We want maximum efficiency with minimum operating effort,” says Kay Hilbert, Product Owner Global Tricot Machines at Karl Mayer.
Smart solutions for handling optimization are advantageous in two ways: They ease the personnel situation, which is becoming more acute in many markets due to the lack of qualified employees. And they can be used to appeal to young skilled workers in particular, who have grown up in the digital environment.
