Mayer & Cie. has launched a new machine control system called Control 5.0. This system makes the company’s circular knitting machines ready for the Internet of Things (IoT) and compatible with their digital platform, knitlink. Control 5.0 prepares the machines for the future of textile production by enabling easy digital connectivity.
The new control system can be added as an upgrade to any machine built from 2001 onward. From now on, every new mechanical circular knitting machine from Mayer & Cie. will come with Control 5.0 as a standard feature.
A New Approach to Operating Machines
Benjamin Mayer, managing director of Mayer & Cie., said, “Control 5.0 is a major step forward for circular knitting machines in the digital age. With this system, we are helping our customers move gradually into the Industrial Internet of Things. This makes our machines smarter and more efficient over time.”
From Standalone Systems to Connected Machines
Since the 1990s, Mayer & Cie. has continuously improved its machine control systems. They evolved from standalone controls to locally connected data interfaces. Now, Control 5.0 enables a direct and secure connection to the cloud-based knitlink platform.
Control 5.0 Unlocks Access to knitlink
Control 5.0 acts as the gateway to Mayer & Cie.’s digital platform, knitlink. Currently, knitlink offers three main apps:
- Monitoring: Shows real-time data on machine operation.
- Service: Provides fast and skilled remote support.
- Shop: Helps find precise spare parts for registered machines.
Another advantage is that software updates are now delivered wirelessly over the air (OTA). This means USB sticks are no longer needed.
Two Control Interface Options Available
Control 5.0 includes an edge device for internet connectivity and a new human-machine interface (HMI). Customers can choose between two interface styles:
- SmartControl (standard): Features up to four smart knobs on the machine legs. These small rotary displays let knitters access key machine functions. More detailed controls can be accessed through mobile devices like tablets or smartphones. This setup also allows different user permissions for operators and supervisors.
- ClassicControl (optional): Combines all controls in one central touchscreen on the machine. This screen is located where the previous control unit was installed.
Upgrading Existing Machines
All new mechanical circular knitting machines from Mayer & Cie. will now come with Control 5.0 installed.
For customers who want to upgrade older machines built from 2001 onward, Mayer & Cie. offers retrofit kits. Because older models differ, the company provides a checklist to help customers understand what upgrades their machines need before installation.
