KARL MAYER has developed a pattern disc database for speeding up the processing sequences when handling orders for pattern discs and chains both for new machines and for use as spare parts. The staff in the production department has direct access to this database, which reduces hold-ups considerably and prevents delays.

To put this into practice, the following conditions have to be met:

1. The ‘Pattern disc order form’ is generally used for ordering the pattern discs and chains. All the mandatory fields must be filled in, since these are required for searching the database( see right: Download / Example) . The customer has to be contacted if these mandatory fields are not filled in, and this slows down the process.
To make the system easier to use and to avoid incorrect entries, the user can choose from a selection of parameters on the form, and a number of logic tests are carried out. Help texts are available for assisting the user with filling in the form. The form sheet is available in English/German as well as in Chinese/English on KARL MAYER’s homepage for being filled in ( see right : Download form sheet). Up to this date the form can be requested from Melanie Böres under mboeres@karlmayer.de. The completed document has to be e-mailed to the respective sales handling section.

3. The pattern data are generally input using a 2-Tempi notation system. With double-bar machines, the lapping has to be specified as a double stitch for both needle bars in a twice 2-Tempi arrangement. In this case, the repeat length is the total number of stitches (including the weft lapping and the unprocessed stitch) for both needle bars.

4. A technical test is carried out to check the technical limitations of the lapping for the relevant type of machine for each guide bar. The feasibility of working the lappings of several guide bars in combination is not checked, since the database can be searched for each pattern disc separately.

5. Quotes for pattern discs as spare parts are given in the same way, subject to this check. The check is not carried out until an order has been placed.