FRANKFURT, Germany - Sophis Systems, the Belgian CAD/CAM software creator has unveiled a system that automatically prepares computer design files for printing and weaving. WeaveG@te stores specifications for each loom on a network in a single server. The program shortens downtime between runs by regulating the feed of design files.

The stored data also serves as a contingency plan. In case of loom breakdowns or stops during production runs, WeaveG@te automatically prepares the pattern to be woven on another loom in the network.

The program, which was about three years in the making, helps satisfy the industry's demand for shorter runs and more specialized products.

''Everyone has to make 10 percent more designs but not because they are selling more fabric,'' said Antoon Lozie, Sophis director of sales and marketing. ''The big bottleneck today comes from companies who need more designs and more sampling because people need shorter runs. No one has fabrics on shelves anymore.''

Lozie said Sophis can adjust a manufacturer's parameters so Weaveg@te, which is run on a Linux operating system, can be implemented without adapting software.

''We make files that fit a factory and its network of looms,'' he said. ''It can't be read anywhere else but that factory's system. This also protects against email file theft. It's especially useful if companies design in one place and weave in another and they need to send the file.

''We have optimized what they already have and increased flexibility without adding personnel.''

Lozie said the software can also act as an engine behind e-commerce. ''You can place an order online and then ten minutes later, production starts. The looms never stop.''