The article describes the construction and testing of a functional model of an innovative warp – knitting machine for technical spatial knitted fabrics with an original structure. Design assumptions regarding the geometrical, kinematic and driving characteristics of the machine are described. The functional model as well as its physical implementation as a research stand are presented. The production phases of the 3D knitted fabric are also demonstrated. The research results are described and their importance for the construction of a machine prototype of the production version are emphasised.