An overview of developments in flat bed knitting machines addresses machine design, compound needle technology, software, and advances in machine speed. Steiger SA's Vesta Multi 24 features a cam carriage without a carriage bow and power driven yarn carriers that follow the fabric selvage. The Aries. 3 knitting machine has a needle space of 130 centimeters; three cam carriage system; and stitch settings for knitting, tucking, and stitch transfer from the front to back bed. The Taurus compact knitting machine features three combination systems and bidirectional stitch transfer. The company's patented compound needle features a tongue and slider positioned on the needle body to allow quick stitch transfer. Its Model software for Microsoft Windows 98 and NT platforms generates fabric designs for most flat bed knitting machines.