Patent Publication Number: US-9418349-B2

Title: Fitness facility equipment usage control system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/458,787 filed on Aug. 13, 2014, which is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/789,114 filed on Mar. 7, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,882,637, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/419,488 filed on Mar. 14, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,419,593, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/888,669 filed on Sep. 23, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,157,706, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/581,417, filed on Oct. 19, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,988,599, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/765,704 filed on Jan. 26, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,846, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/442,934 filed on Jan. 26, 2003, the full disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     In general, fitness facilities and clubs (such as Gold&#39;s Gym, Bally&#39;s, 24-Hour Fitness, etc.) obtain service information regarding their fitness equipment units (FEUs) via one of two methods. In the older method, when an FEU becomes inoperative, a patron typically alerts a manager or other personnel at the particular fitness facility. The manager then inspects the unit and determines whether a telephone call to a service provider is warranted. If so, the provider sends a serviceperson to the facility to diagnose and repair the problem. The unit is then put back in operation. The information regarding each of these events is sometimes manually tracked by the facility and/or the service provider. 
     In the second method, each FEU is equipped with a display screen and various internal monitoring components. The monitoring components determine when a problem exists within the FEU. The components then either report this information in the form of an error code displayed on the unit&#39;s screen or simply registers the problem on an internal interface board. When a particular FEU becomes inoperative, the patron alerts a facility employee of the problem. The employee then goes to the unit to determine whether a telephone call to the service provider is needed. If so, the provider sends a serviceperson to the facility to diagnose and fix the problem. The FEU is then put back in operation. As above, the information regarding each of these events is sometimes manually tracked by the facility and/or the service provider. 
     As will be appreciated, the current situation is labor intensive, costly, time-consuming, error-prone, and inefficient. In addition, and perhaps more importantly, the current system gives patrons a negative impression of the fitness facility because the patron is aware of a broken FEU. It also makes patrons irritated in that they have to either spend time reporting a broken unit or forego reporting it and feel guilty or disgusted. Moreover, the patron may have to wait until another similar FEU is available for use. Another disadvantage to the above system is that the type and frequency of problems experienced by a particular FEU is generally lost. This information has use in determining warranty rights and responsibilities as well as making FEU replacement decisions. In currently warranty reporting, the facility manager generally relies on anecdote and unsubstantiated impressions of the performance of a particular FEU. 
     Thus, a need exists for a more efficient service tracking and alerting system for FEUs at fitness facilities. A more ideal system would be capable of not only tracking such problem events, but also of immediately alerting at least the facility personnel when a problem has arisen. This way, the facility personnel can immediately post an “Out of Service” sign on the machine, and the patron will not have to become involved. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic illustration of one embodiment an information tracking system, a service tracking system, a service alert messaging service, and a reporting interface, each formed in accordance with the present invention; and 
         FIG. 2  is a schematic view of a portion of the system of the present invention shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a schematic view of a portion of the system of the present invention shown in  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic view of another portion of the system of the present invention shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a side elevational view of a fitness equipment unit that may be monitored through the system of the present invention; 
         FIG. 6  is another fitness equipment unit that may be monitored through the system of the present invention; 
         FIG. 7  is a flow diagram illustrating service records created and maintained by the system of the present invention and the updating thereof; 
         FIG. 8  is a flow diagram pertaining to the sending of service alert messages; 
         FIG. 8A  is a flow diagram pertaining to accessing an interface for obtaining service information and reports through the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  is a menu screen of information and reports that are available through the present invention; 
         FIG. 9A  is a schematic illustration of a fitness facility including a facility equipment usage control system according to an example embodiment 
         FIG. 9B  schematically illustrates fitness equipment unit distribution management system  1400  according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 10  is an example of a service alert; 
         FIG. 11  is a query screen for obtaining purchase history information of fitness equipment units; 
         FIG. 12  is a report screen corresponding to the query screen of  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a query screen to obtain current service status of fitness equipment units; 
         FIG. 14  is a report screen corresponding to the query screen of  FIG. 13 ; 
         FIG. 15  is a query screen to obtain service and preventative maintenance records for fitness equipment units; 
         FIG. 16  is a report screen corresponding to the query screen of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 17  is a query screen for obtaining information pertaining to the usage of fitness equipment units during a particular day or days; 
         FIGS. 18 and 19  are report screens corresponding to the query screen of  FIG. 17 ; 
         FIG. 20  is a query screen to obtain information concerning the popularity of fitness equipment units based on usage levels of customers; 
         FIG. 21  is a report screen corresponding to the query screen of  FIG. 20 ; 
         FIG. 22  is a query screen to obtain information concerning preventative maintenance tracking of fitness equipment units; 
         FIG. 23  is a report screen corresponding to the query screen of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 24  is a query screen pertaining to summaries of usage of fitness equipment units by manufacturer, type of equipment, location, etc.; 
         FIG. 25  is a report screen corresponding to the query screen of  FIG. 24 ; 
         FIG. 26  is a query screen to obtain special report summary information; 
         FIG. 27  is a screen for obtaining troubleshooting service information on fitness equipment units; 
         FIG. 28  is a report screen providing a service status of fitness equipment unit groupings; 
         FIG. 29  is a report screen particular to an individual fitness equipment unit shown in  FIG. 28 ; 
         FIG. 30  is a report screen showing the service history of a particular fitness equipment unit shown in  FIG. 28 ; 
         FIG. 31  is a preventative maintenance report for a selected grouping of fitness equipment units; 
         FIG. 32  is a summary report for the current usage of fitness equipment units of a desired grouping; 
         FIG. 33  is a report screen showing detailed usage information on a particular fitness equipment unit from  FIG. 32 ; 
         FIG. 34  provides a history of the usage of a particular fitness equipment unit selected from  FIG. 32 ; 
         FIG. 35  is a report screen showing trends of usage of fitness equipment over time by selected criteria including equipment type, equipment at a particular location, etc.; 
         FIG. 36  is a menu screen of information and reports available to the present invention; 
         FIG. 37  is a first screen of six utilized for selecting the parameters for an installation and warranty tracking report; 
         FIG. 38  is the second screen of the query; 
         FIG. 39  is the third screen of the query; 
         FIG. 40  is the fourth screen of the query; 
         FIG. 41  is the fifth screen of the query; 
         FIG. 42  is the sixth screen of the query; 
         FIG. 43  is a report screen providing installation and warranty information; and 
         FIG. 44  is a service request screen. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS 
     The present invention is a service tracking and alerting system  18  for FEUs located at fitness facilities. These fitness facilities can be commercial fitness clubs and gyms, exercise facilities at schools and universities, resorts, hotels, social clubs or companies, as well as all other locations where FEUs are used. The present invention has a number of unique aspects that may be used in combination or alone. Therefore, while the text and depictions below describe and illustrate one system having all aspects, it is to be kept in mind that portions of the system  18  may be used separately. 
     Referring initially to  FIGS. 1-4 , in general, the system  18  of the present invention includes using one or more information control servers (ICSs)  20  to collect real time service information from FEUs, for example, exercise cycle  22  and elliptical trainer  24 , located at a particular fitness facility. Each ICS comprise one or more computing devices that stores this information in a temporary database  25 . Periodically, the information is transmitted to an accumulated data storage unit or data silo  26  via a communications/date transmissions network  29 . The accumulated data storage unit may include a permanent database  27  having a cache  28  of history service information. Upon receipt of service information from a ICS, the accumulated data storage unit incorporates the newly-received service information into the permanent database  27 . The ICS then continues a new round of collecting real time service information from the FEUs. Although only one silo  26  is shown in the figures, it is to be understood that multiple silos with their corresponding ICSs can be utilized. The multi-silo arrangement may be accessed and controlled using an enterprise level platform  32 . 
     The system  18  of the present invention is further capable of providing service alert messages to one or more users if the state of a particular FEU should warrant. The service alert message may be generated by the ICS  20 , the accumulated data storage unit  26 , and/or the enterprise level platform  32  depending on the criteria set for sending it. The service alert message is preferably sent via a data/communications network  29  which may be in the form of email, instant message, a voice mail message, text message via cellular phone, walkie-talkie, a pager, etc. 
     In more detail and referring to  FIGS. 1-3 , each ICS  20  is associated with a fitness facility. The term “ICS” as used herein is defined as a system  20  that includes a computer  30  having a CPU  31  memory (RAM  32  and ROM  33 ) for collecting service information from an FEU via a wireless communication link, storing the collected service information in an electronic data memory unit  34 , and providing access to the collected service information. Such computers are now commonplace and thus will not be described with any detail here. One example of an ICS suitable for the present invention is the Envenergy Mediator. The system&#39;s memory unit  34  can be in the form of a removable/non-removable, volatile/non-volatile storage media. Non-limiting examples include a hard disk drive, a solid state flash disk, a magnetic drive, a tape drive, an optical disk drive, or other optical media. Removable storage media could include zip disks, flash cards, USB drives, magnetic or digital tapes, and the like. In addition to storing the collected storage information/data, the memory unit  34  is also used to store program modules, such as an operating system and application programs. Computer  30  runs programs capable of accomplishing the functions of the ICS. 
     In one embodiment of the present invention, the ICS may run operating system software  36 , such as an object based operating system. Non-limiting examples of applicable operating systems include Microsoft Windows™ or Linux™. For applications software, the ICS may run a database engine  38  to manage and search the data in the database of the ICS. One such search engine is sold under the name Filemaker™. A plugin  40  may be used in the database engine to allow the database records to be accessed from an Internet browser. Web Companion™ is one such plugin. The applications software may also include software  42  to enable the database software to read from and write to serial ports of the ICS computer. One such software for this purpose is Trio™. Of course, other data ports of the ICS may be utilized for data input and output other than the serial port. The applications software may also include plugin  44  to enable the database software to send emails. One such software is SMTPit™. If service alert messages are sent other than via email, then other appropriate software can be utilized with the chosen database engine. In addition, the application software may include a component  46  to schedule scripts. One such plugin is sold under the trademark Events™. Of course, some of the foregoing applications&#39;functions may be integrated together rather than constituting individual plugins for the database management software  38 . 
     Also, other application software may be utilized with the ICS  20 , other than those described above, to perform those functions described above and other functions required of the ICS pursuant to the present invention. In this regard, the ICS may utilize software that is part of the enterprise level software. One such integrated software is Envenergy Mediator. This particular software has many of the functions of the foregoing plugins already integrated therein. Also, with this software, significant records are not maintained on the ICS; rather, the data collected by the ICS is periodically transferred to the silo  26  and thereafter the data in the ICS is purged. 
     Alternatively, the ICS could be software applications that are loadable onto an existing personal computer or other computer and capable of accomplishing these functions. In one embodiment, the ICS is a dedicated computer residing at the facility of the FEUs and including a centralized memory  34  for storing collected service information. 
     By being “associated” with a fitness facility, the ICS may be located at the facility itself, or it may be located off-site from the facility. This may depend in part on the communication link used between the FEUs and the ICS. Also, depending on the number of ICSs at a particular facility, it may be necessary to utilize more than one ICS at a facility or club. 
     The ICS includes the ability to poll the FEUs at their facility, either sequentially or simultaneously, and to make such information accessible to one or more users. By way of background, current FEUs may have the ability to internally track various types of service information and data, for example, e.g., odometer reading, current status, error history, etc. Such machines typically include a two-way communications port following the “Communication Protocols and Standards for Exercise Equipment”, or CSAFE port, for short. The CSAFE port is an industry standard that is shaped somewhat similarly to a telephone jack. In one embodiment of the present invention, each FEU includes an radio frequency transceiver connected to the CSAFE port and also to a transceiver  48  connected to a communications port of the ICS. An example of such a transceiver is the AeroComm RF transceiver model No. AC5124C, manufactured by AeroComm, Lenexa, Kans., USA. Alternatively, other wireless protocols or even a power line transceiver may be used in lieu of the RF-based transceivers. 
     As shown primarily in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , the present invention may be utilized in conjunction with an FEU in the form of an exercise cycle  22  having a frame  60 , a seat  62  mounted on the upper end of a seat post  64 . The frame also includes a forward post  66  for supporting handlebars  68  and control/display panel  70  at the upper end of the post  64 . The exercise cycle  22  also includes pedals  72  mounted on the outer ends of cranks  74  coupled to a crankshaft  76 . A drive sheave  78  is splined, keyed, or otherwise coupled to the crankshaft  76  and trained to a drive sheave  79  splined or keyed to a drive shaft  80  by belt  82 . A flywheel  84  is also coupled to the drive shaft  80 . Resistance to the rotation of the flywheel  84  may be applied by an eddy current brake or other type of brake, not shown. Sensors, such as sensor  86 , as well as other sensors, may be utilized to measure numerous operational parameters of the exercise cycle  22 , including the speed of rotation of the flywheel  84 , the number of revolutions of the flywheel  84  or crank  74 , the resistance load imposed on the flywheel by the braking system, the length of time of a current workout. As shown in  FIG. 5 , the exercise cycle  22  also includes a radio frequency transceiver  88  connected to a CSAFE port  90 . 
     The present invention may also be utilized in conjunction with other types of exercise equipment, for instance an elliptical trainer  24  as illustrated in  FIG. 6 . This apparatus includes a floor mounted frame  100  on which is mounted an elevatable front ramp  102  for supporting the forward ends of foot links  104  through rollers  106  axled to the front end of the foot links. The rear end of the foot links  82  are coupled to the outer ends of crank arms  108  sending outwardly from a crank shaft  110  journaled in an upright support structure  112 . A flywheel  114  is keyed, splined or otherwise coupled to the crank shaft  92 . Foot support plates  116  are mounted on the upper side of the foot links  104  for supporting the user&#39;s feet. A forward post structure  118  extends upwardly and forwardly from the frame  100  to support at its upper end a handlebar assembly  120  and a display/control panel  122 . 
     Sensors  124  and  126  sense, among other operating parameters, the angle of the ramp  102 , the rotational speed of the flywheel  114 , the resistance being applied to a flywheel by a braking system, not shown, the number of revolutions of the flywheel, the time duration of the exercise session, as well as other parameters. As in the cycle  22 , the elliptical trainer  24  also includes a radio frequency transceiver  128  that is wired to or otherwise connected to a CSAFE port  130 . 
     According to the present invention, in one embodiment, ICS  20  is used to sequentially poll each FEU regarding one of a multitude of service information data types. See  FIG. 7 . The ICS may include a master transceiver  48  (e.g., using an AeroComm radio) that sends a query including an FEU identification number. Each FEU receives the query from the master transceiver, determines whether it is the FEU of interest, and responds with the answer if so, see  FIG. 7 . In another embodiment, software is used on an existing computer to simultaneously poll multiple FEUs at a fitness facility via radio frequency transmissions. 
     Each ICS has driver software to enable the ICS to communicate with the radio frequency transceiver, as well as driver software to receive the CSAFE format data from the FEU and convert such data to a desired format for storing in the ICS, and/or transmitting onto the silo  26  and/or enterprise platform  32 . 
     The database  34  has one service information record  140  for each FEU for each time polled, see  FIG. 3 . Each such record  140  can include such information as: 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 a communication address used by the ICS to communicate 
               
               
                 with a specific FEU; 
               
               
                 a FEU identification number as assigned by FEU owner; 
               
               
                 manufacturer Model name/number and serial number of the 
               
               
                 FEU; 
               
               
                 text that uniquely describes the FEU; 
               
               
                 current state of the FEU, including: 
               
               
                 “ready”--when FEU is idle; 
               
               
                 “on-line”--FEU is in use, typically by a user, but perhaps by 
               
               
                 a service or maintenance person running the FEU&#39;s 
               
               
                 diagnostics; 
               
               
                 “error”--FEU has detected a hardware error and thus has 
               
               
                 made itself unavailable for use; 
               
               
                 “no response” to last poll (a true or false value); 
               
               
                 time since the last response; 
               
               
                 software version; 
               
               
                 current odometer reading; 
               
               
                 current hour meter reading; 
               
               
                 current speed (for example, pedaling speed, flywheel speed, 
               
               
                 or treadmill belt speed); 
               
               
                 sum for average speed; 
               
               
                 maximum speed; 
               
               
                 current incline of treadmill, elliptical cross-trainer or other 
               
               
                 applicable FEU; 
               
               
                 sum for average incline; 
               
               
                 maximum incline; 
               
               
                 current resistance level; 
               
               
                 sum for average resistance; 
               
               
                 maximum resistance; 
               
               
                 current user power; 
               
               
                 sum for average user power; 
               
               
                 maximum user power; 
               
               
                 count for all of the foregoing averages; 
               
               
                 current user heart rate; 
               
               
                 current or last used course; 
               
               
                 current or last user weight and age; 
               
               
                 current or last user workout time, distance, and calories 
               
               
                 expended; and 
               
               
                 current or last user average and maximum heart rates, and 
               
               
                 time spent in the heart rate zone. 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     A new record  140  is created each time an FEU changes state. 
     The ICS  20  may maintain a history database  141  showing the usage of the FEUs being monitored, see  FIG. 3 . For each FEU, the history database  141  contains one record  142 , each of which may contain the following information: 
     
       
         
           
               
               
             
               
                   
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
                 communications address; 
               
               
                   
                 FEU identification number as assigned by FEU owner; 
               
               
                   
                 manufacturer&#39;s Model number/name, and manufacturer&#39;s 
               
               
                   
                 serial number for unit; 
               
               
                   
                 text that uniquely describes the FEU; 
               
               
                   
                 the event which changed the state of the FEU, i.e., “ready” 
               
               
                   
                 to “off-line”, “off-line” to “ready”, “off-line” to “error”, 
               
               
                   
                 etc.; 
               
               
                   
                 date and time; 
               
               
                   
                 odometer reading; 
               
               
                   
                 hour meter reading; 
               
               
                   
                 average and maximum speed, for example pedaling speed 
               
               
                   
                 or treadmill belt speed or flywheel rotational speed; 
               
               
                   
                 average and maximum incline (if applicable); 
               
               
                   
                 average and maximum resistance (if applicable); 
               
               
                   
                 average and maximum user power; 
               
               
                   
                 course; 
               
               
                   
                 weight and age of user; 
               
               
                   
                 workout time, distance traveled and calories expended; 
               
               
                   
                 average and maximum heart rate of exerciser, and time 
               
               
                   
                 spent in the heart rate zone; and 
               
               
                   
                 error code. 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     When the ICS  20  detects a state change from “ready” to “off-line” (for example, in use), the history database for the FEU is updated with a new record  142  containing the data entries listed above, see  FIG. 7 . Also, when a unit is in the “off-line” state, the ICS updates all the fields for the current record  140  for that particular FEU in the FEU&#39;s current record database. 
     The ICS  20  may also include an errors database  143  containing information on the current and previous errors for all of the FEUs at a particular location, see  FIG. 3 . The information in this dataset may include the FEU&#39;s communications address, the FEU I.D. number, the manufacturer&#39;s name, model and serial number, the error code, the error code text, the date and time of record creation, the date and time of the most recent occurrence of this error code, the number of occurrences counter, whether or not an error code was sent, and if so, the time and date of sending, the time and date of the error code acknowledgement, whether or not service has been performed for this error code, and the time and date of the service activity. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 4 , each ICS  20  is in communication (e.g., TCP/IP protocol connections) with the accumulated data storage unit  26  and optionally with other club computers, for example, a computer  144 , see  FIG. 1 . The ICS  20  may be linked to the on-site club computer  144  via direct connection or local area network rather than through the network  29 . In one embodiment, the accumulated data storage unit  26  is a Web-based server  146  connected to the Internet or other network  29  and having a large data storage unit that may be in the form of a hard drive  144 , a tape drive  150 , an optical drive  152 , a removable memory medium  154 , a solid state flash disk, or other type of memory device. The server  146  also includes a computing system  156  to operate the data storage unit. The computing system  156  includes a CPU  158 , RAM memory  160 , ROM memory  162 , and other standard components that are utilized in servers, such as server  146 . The server may also include an associated monitor  164 , as well as input devices, such as a keyboard, pointing device, track balls, microphones, touch screens, joy sticks, and the like, not shown. Typically these input devices are connected to the computing system  156  by a serial port, a parallel port, USB port, fire wire port, SCCSI port, or the like. 
     The server  146  is operated under operating system and applications software, as would typically be the case. The operating system software  166  may be an object-based software or other type of software. As with the case of ICS  20 , the server  146  may operate various types of application software, including a database engine  168  to organize and control the database  27  and also to obtain information from and organize information in the database when so instructed by the user, as discussed more fully below. To this end, the server  146  may also include an Internet browser access software  170 , software to read from and write to the computer  172 , software  174  to send e-mails or other types of communications from the server, and software  176  to schedule scripts. As with the ICSs, the software of the server  146  may be part of the overall enterprise level software, and thus integrated with the enterprise platform. 
     The present invention contemplates that system  18  would consist of a number of silos  26  with corresponding ICSs  20 . These multiple silo systems are managed by the enterprise level platform  32 ,  FIG. 1 . This platform may communicate with the silos  26  as well as with the ICSs  20  and system users via network  29 , which may be a wide area network, i.e., the Internet, a local area network, dial-up system, etc. The enterprise platform  32  may include its own hardware and software. One example of enterprise level software may include Envenergy Mediator. Numerous types of server hardware could be used for the enterprise platform. 
     As noted above, each ICS  20  periodically sends the contents of its temporary database  25  to the accumulated data storage unit  26  for permanent storage in permanent database  27 . The connection between the ICS and the accumulated data storage unit  26  is via the network  29  which may be “a connection via the Internet”, which could be wireless (i.e. 802.11), or by network cable, dial-up modem, satellite, etc. This allows the ICS  20  to reuse its memory for storing more new real time service information from FEUs. To this end, the server  146  includes a communications unit  180  as well as applicable hardware and software, to enable the server to communicate over the network  29  with the ICSs, also with users, as discussed more fully below. 
     In addition, the service information stored in the accumulated data storage unit  26  has a multitude of uses, many of which are described in detail below. The transfer of real time service information to the accumulated data storage  26  unit can be done on predefined time basis, or when a certain criteria is met (such as the ICS memory is close to being full), or according to whatever other basis is desired. 
     The service information collected by the ICS  20  and the accumulated data storage unit  26  preferably includes service information from all types of FEUs of a particular club or facility, including those FEUs from different manufacturers. As discussed below, the present invention can provide the club owner with a great amount of useful information. Further, it is possible to form a single accumulated data storage unit that is industry wide. Thus, ICSs from different fitness clubs could transmit service information to a single accumulated data storage unit. All manufacturers could have access to the accumulated data storage unit and would be required to use a unique access method in order to gain access to data on the FEUs that they manufactured. 
     The ICS  20  and accumulated data storage unit  26  each store some information that is the same, and may also store information that is unique to one or the other. For example, the ICS system memory  34  may also store associated notes regarding a particular event, e.g., patron comments, the manager on duty at the time of an event, use counters to alert management of the need for more machines, as well as other specific information  182 , etc. By way of another example, the accumulated data storage database  27  may also store facility locations, manager phone numbers, time in existence, and other specific information  184 , etc. 
     In one embodiment of the present invention, the permanent database  27  contain, for each FEU, one record  186  per event. Types of information may include those listed above concerning the information stored in the harvesting memory  34 , for example: FEU identification number, state, date and time, odometer value, hour meter value, speeds, incline, resistance, power use, course, workout performance, error code, etc. 
     In accordance with further aspects of this invention and referring to  FIG. 8 , the system is further capable of providing a service alert message to one or more users if the state of a particular FEU should warrant. Typical FEU states are: 
     
       
         
           
               
               
             
               
                   
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
                 “ready”--this means that the FEU is idle; 
               
               
                   
                 “off-line”--this means that the FEU is in use, either by a 
               
               
                   
                 user or being serviced by service or maintenance personnel; 
               
               
                   
                 “idle”; 
               
               
                   
                 “active”; 
               
               
                   
                 “no response”--meaning the FEU does not respond to 
               
               
                   
                 polling by the ICS. The lack of a response by the FEU may 
               
               
                   
                 be due to one of three possibilities: 
               
               
                   
                 the FEU is self-powered and is currently not being used; 
               
               
                   
                 the FEU (and its wireless transmitter) has been moved out 
               
               
                   
                 of range of the ICS&#39;s radio; 
               
               
                   
                 the communication channel between the ICS and FEU is 
               
               
                   
                 disabled, possibly intermittently; 
               
               
                   
                 “error”--this means that the FEU has detected a hardware 
               
               
                   
                 error and thus has made itself unavailable for use. 
               
               
                   
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     The ICS  20  captures the service information and makes a determination as to whether a service alert message is needed, see  FIG. 8 . The criteria used may be permanently predefined, or may be modifiable according to the needs of the facility. For example, one facility may decide that service information pertaining to power-off do not warrant a service alert message. 
     The service alert message may be generated by the ICS  20 , by the accumulated data storage unit  26 , and/or by the enterprise platform  32 , depending on the criteria set for sending the message, see  FIG. 8 . For example, if an FEU experiences a burned out motor, the ICS may send: (1) a service alert message to the facility manager apprising him or her of the situation, (2) a service alert message to a repair facility requesting a new motor, and (3) a service alert message to the accumulated data storage unit  26  which then determines if a trend exists and, if so, sends a service alert message to the manufacturer regarding a potential design defect in their motors and another service alert message to the repair facility with history service data. 
     As an alternative to the foregoing procedure, the ICS  20  may send an error code to the enterprise platform, and the service alert is then generated by the enterprise platform based on the rules and criteria that have been established. In this alternative, the data storage unit  26  also would not itself send service alerts or messages to manufacturers or others; rather, such alerts and messages would also be sent by the enterprise platform. 
     In one embodiment, a service alert message is generated only for an error status. The message may include a complete solution to the error including identification of which unit has failed, error type, other relevant data from the equipment (e.g., odometer reading), and (low priority) technical support information with step-by-step instruction on how to connect and suggested parts needed. In addition, service alert messages may be generated and sent to club managers when preventive maintenance is needed. 
     As will be appreciated by a reading of the above, there are numerous configurations possible regarding service alert messages. Particularly desirable aspects include the use of a wireless communication of the service alert message (e.g., email, SMTP/IP, voice mail, pager, text message, satellite communication, cellular connection, etc.), the ability to send the alert message to one or more recipients, and the ability for the message to be sent automatically and in electronic form.  FIG. 10  illustrates one embodiment of an example service alert message. 
     In accordance with yet other aspects of this invention and initially referring to  FIGS. 1 and 4 , the system  18  further includes a reporting interface  190  accessed via the enterprise platform  32 . The interface  190  allows a user to view both real time and history service information of FEUs by accessing the accumulated data storage unit  26  and/or one or more ICSs  20 . In reporting interface aspect, the ability to query multiple aspects simultaneously and the ability to manage the information is accomplished at different levels. 
     In one embodiment, log-on access to the interface  190  is provided by a Web-based (preferably, access-controlled) system linking the user via the enterprise platform to an accumulated data storage unit  26 . Real time data may be obtained from a ICS  20  through network  29  (e.g., Internet, intranet), accessed by direct dial-up account, cellular phone line, cable modem, satellite modem, etc. Alternatively, in systems having ICSs that continuously send their real time data to the accumulated data storage unit  26 , the secondary link to the ICS(s) may be unnecessary. 
     In one embodiment, the user can request and review service information data only and cannot make any changes, see  FIG. 8A . In another embodiment, one or more users with a higher access level have the ability to modify the data presented. For example, a repair shop may have the authority to update the status of a particular problem from “In-Work” to “Completed”. Similarly, a manufacturer may have the authority to designate a particular problem as having an associated recall issue. A multitude of configurations are possible. 
     In general, the user obtains information from the reporting interface by selecting one of a number of different topics as described below with respect to  FIG. 19 . In one embodiment, multiple buckets or types of information are selectably displayed on a first menu screen  202 . A menu system leads the user through various levels of inquiry, with the final step preferably being the selection of a report or search button. In general, the amount and type of service information available will depend on the amount and type of service information coming from a particular FEU. In addition, the user can request service information for a particular location, a particular region, a particular club, a particular customer, a particular type of machine, etc. 
     The interface includes multiple pages of information, with numerous opportunities for the user to select the desired information and put it in a desired format.  FIGS. 9-35  illustrate one embodiment of such an interface. Other arrangements are possible. The results of the information request can be displayed on the user&#39;s computer screen, on the user&#39;s PDA or other device. In one embodiment, the listing of FEU current status is done in a color-coded manner, with a red light, green light, etc., shown beside each entry, see, for example,  FIGS. 12, 14, 23, 28, 31 and 32  and the associated discussion below. The color may indicate the status of a particular service alert associated with a particular FEU. The graphic reports and charts may be similarly color coded as well. As will be appreciated, the service information may be presented in various ways, depending on the application at hand. 
     Describing the reporting interface  190  in more detail,  FIG. 9  illustrates one exemplary embodiment of the first menu screen  202  of the reporting interface  190  in the menu screen  200 . The following informational categories may be selected: Service Alerts  204 , Purchase History  206 , Real-Time Status  208 , Service History  210 , Peak Times  212 , Product Popularity Usage  214 , Preventative Maintenance Tracking  216 , Unit Work History Summaries  218 , Special Reports  220 , Trouble Shooting Service Issues  222 , Automatic Parts Inventory  224 . Any of the foregoing informational categories can be selected by the user by selecting the “View Report” button or box  226  adjacent each of the foregoing categories. 
     If the Service Alert category  204  is selected, as discussed above, the present invention generates a service alert message  229  to applicable recipients when an FEU is in need of service. The recipients may include the club/facility manager or other responsible personnel  192 , a service provider or technician  194 , customer support personnel of the FEU&#39;s manufacturer  196 , as well as the system administrator  198 .  FIG. 10  is an example of a service notice that would be generated by the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 10 , the notice includes various information including the facility  230 , at which the FEU is located, as well as main recipients  236  (e.g., service provider  194 ) of the service alert  232 , as well as cc recipients  234  (e.g., the club manager  194  and FEU manufacturer  196 ). The service report also indicates the time and date  236  that the report was received by the recipient(s) as well as the subject  238  of the service alert. Thereafter, the service alert reporting information  239  is set forth, including the location of the FEU in question, the date in which the “error code” occurred for the FEU, the time in which the error code occurred, the manufacturer and Model number of the FEU in question, the serial number of the FEU in question, the error code applicable to the FEU, and an error description. In the example of the service alert message  229  shown in  FIG. 10 , the described error is that the lift is not operating. The service alert also advises the recipient that the service history of the FEU in question, as well as preventative maintenance record and other information, is available. In the example shown in  FIG. 10 , the fictitious name of the entity operating the service alert system  18  of the present invention has been named “Service Tracker.” Also, the Service Alert message  229  can provide other or additional information to some or all of the recipients. Examples include recommended parts needed or procedures to follow to repair the FEU or otherwise perform the required service on the FEU. 
     As described above, a service alert may be automatically generated by a change in state of the FEU when a service matter arises. As also noted above, a service alert can be sent via a network  29  using numerous different types of communication access modes. The service alerts of the present invention can decrease the down time of the FEU by facilitating quick, unobtrusive service by relaying pertinent information to the service provider before he/she arrives at the site of the FEU. This can not only result in cost savings to the club/facility owner/operator, but can also decrease the negative impression for customers/members of the club/facility. 
     A second inquiry that a user can select from the menu screen  202  of the reporting interface  190  is the Purchase History category  206  which leads one to a purchase history query interface screen  240 . This screen may be utilized to create reports showing the installation date, usage, and service history of FEUs. This information is of significant use to club/facility owners and operators, for instance when deciding to replace units. The query can select multiple parameters, including the manufacturer  242  of the FEUs, and the type  244  of FEU, whether treadmill, exercise cycle, climber, elliptical machine, or other type. The query can also be based on a particular facility location or a region of the country  246 . Further selectable parameters include the hour usage  248  of the FEU or the mileage  250  on the FEU&#39;s odometer. The installation date  252  of the FEU is also a selectable parameter as well as the warranty expiration date  254  of the FEU or portion or components of the FEU. At the purchase history interface screen  240 , it is also possible to select primary and secondary sort criteria (not shown), for instance by manufacturer, product type, installation dates, etc., at the primary sort submenu  256 . 
     An example of a resulting report screen  258  based on the parameters selected in the query screen  240  is shown in  FIG. 12 . In the purchase history report  258 , the information is provided in columnar form, although other formats may be selected. The columns in the report  258  include the date of installation of the FEU  260 , the warranty expiration date of the FEU  262 , the name of the manufacturer of the FEU  264 , the Model and equipment type of the FEU  266 , the location of the FEU  268 , the hour meter reading of the FEU  270 , the distance odometer reading of the FEU  272 , and a view service report option icon  274 . The primary sort category used in the report  258  was the date of installation. Of course, if another primary sort criteria is selected, the information shown in  FIG. 12  would be arranged differently. Also, in report  258  is a first column  276  consisting of colored balls or other icons for each FEU, which allows for the color-coding of the data presented in report  258 . For example, a green, yellow, red, or other color code may be used to indicate the remaining useful life of the FEU or other criteria. 
     From column  274  of report  258 , the user can, for a specific FEU, obtain a service history report, which is described below relative to  FIGS. 15 and 16 . 
     A third category of information shown in  FIG. 9  that can be selected by the user is the Real-Time Status  208  of the FEU. Selection of this category leads the user to a query screen  300 , shown in  FIG. 13 , consisting of criteria that may be selected relative to the Real-Time Status report being requested which pertains to providing an understanding of the current service and usage status of any FEU at any location. As shown in  FIG. 13 , the report criteria that may be selected includes a particular club location or region of the country  302 , the manufacturer of the FEU  304 , and the product category of the FEU  306 . In addition, the report can be sorted by at least primary and secondary criteria  308  and  310 . Such criteria may include, for example, the manufacturer of the FEU, the category of the FEU, the installation date of the FEU, etc. Once the criteria for the query is selected, a report  312  is generated, as shown in  FIG. 14 . 
     The information in  FIG. 14  is arranged in columnar form with one line per FEU. As would be expected, the arrangement of such information is based on primary and secondary sort criteria selected in screen  300 . The columns of report  312  may include the following information: the manufacturer  314 , the FEU Model  316 , the FEU product category  318 , the manufacturer&#39;s serial number of the FEU  320 , the error status of the FEU  322 , and the date that a service alert was sent  324 . The last column of report  312  shows an icon  325  to allow the user to select the service history for a particular FEU. Also, in the first column  328  a color-coded icon  329  may be utilized to provide a color representation of the current status of the FEU. For example, colors may be used to represent whether or not an error status is currently in effect. Also, a print icon  236  is provided to allow the recipient to print the report. As would be expected, each of the query and report screens used with the invention can have a print icon for convenient printing of the screen being accessed. 
     Referring to  FIG. 9 , in the menu screen  202 , it is possible to select the Unit Service History option  210  of an FEU which leads the user to screen  340 , shown in  FIG. 15 . The screen  340  contains criteria for the desired report. Of course, other criteria could be used in this query screen as well as the other query screens described herein. In screen  340 , the user enters the serial number of the FEU  342  and the time period of the desired report. When these selections are made, the report can be generated in the format shown in screen  346 ,  FIG. 16 . If the serial number of the FEU is unknown, means can be provided to obtain that information, such as by accessing the Real Time Status report query screen  300  via the link button/box  345  in screen  340 . The service history of the selected unit is displayed in screen  346 ,  FIG. 16 . 
     In the upper portion of the report screen  346 , shown in  FIG. 16 , information concerning the selected FEU is set forth, including the total downtime of the unit  347 , manufacturer  348 , the product category  349 , Model or type of product  350  of the FEU, the serial number  352 , the date  354  that the FEU was installed, the location of the FEU  356 , the owner&#39;s I.D. number  358  of the FEU, the name of the person that services the FEU  358 , and the service account number  359 . The service record of the FEU is set forth in the lower part of the screen  346  in columnar form, with the columns including the date  360  and the time of the date  362  that the service record was generated, the applicable error code  364 , the service recommendation  366 , the description of the error/service performed  368 , the hour meter reading  370 , the odometer reading  372 , whether a service alert was sent  374 , the preventative maintenance (“PM”) status  375 , when the receipt of the service error was acknowledged  376 , and by whom  377 . The screen  346  also includes a PM recommendation key  378  corresponding to the recommendations set forth in column  366 . 
     The service history report shown in screen  346  at the upper portion thereof identifies the query selections from  FIG. 15 , including the location  380 , the date range  381 , the manufacturer serial number  382 , the unit ID number  383 . In addition, the total hours  285  and the total odometer reading  386  are provided. 
     Further, in screen  346 , warranty expiration dates are provided for not only different portions of the FEU, but also for parts  387  and labor  388 . The portions of the FEU for which expiration dates are set forth include the frame  390 , the display unit  391 , the motor  392 , and the motor fan  393 . As apparent, a significant amount of information is provided in screen  346  concerning the service history of the particular unit FEU selected. Of course, the screen  346  need not provide all of the foregoing information if not required or desired by the user. Also, some of the foregoing information could be provided in other screens instead of the unit service history screen. This is true of all of the report screens illustrated and discussed herein. 
     It will be appreciated that the service history information enables the user to determine what maintenance has been performed in and out of warranty, and the cost of the maintenance that has been completed in and out of warranty. Also, this information helps the user make purchasing decisions in terms of replacing or buying new FEUs. 
     From the user interface menu screen  202 , the user can also select the Peak Times option  212  leading to query screen  400  which provides information concerning usage of FEUs during the hours of a day. The parameters that can be selected for this inquiry, as shown in screen  400 , include, for example, the sites or locations of the FEUs  402 , whether at all locations, in different regions of the country, or at specific locations. It is possible to select more than one of these locations for this particular inquiry or more than one of the other parameters available in this or other query screens described herein. Such other parameters include the time period  404  of the inquiry, the days of the week  406  of the inquiry, so that the report can be selected for a particular day of the week or days of the week. The selectable parameters also include product categories  408 , for example, treadmills, cycles, climbers, ellipticals, or all of the above, as well as manufacturers of the FEUs  410  and particular models  412  from such manufacturers. 
     The resulting report is provided in tabular and graphical format, for example, in report screen  413 , as shown in  FIG. 19 . The tabular information includes the locations selected for the inquiry  414  and the total pieces of equipment types  416  for a selected site. Below the tabular information, a line or other type of graph  418  is provided that shows the usage during the hours of the day on a horizontal axis and the units in use in the vertical axis. From the upper portion of report screen  413  it is possible to select a graph for each of the particular locations shown in column  414 . In this regard, graph  426 , shown in  FIG. 19 , pertains to one particular site location  422  (Club X-303) with the total number of FEUs (treadmills)  424  located thereat. The usage of these FEUs is graphed over the hours of the day as shown in Graph  426 . Although the report depicted in  FIG. 19  pertains to treadmills at three specific club facility locations, many other, different parameters could have been selected. Moreover, different product groups could have been selected, for instance, one specific treadmill (FEU), all treadmills of a specific model, all treadmills from a particular manufacturer, all treadmills from all manufacturers, all cardio equipment at a particular site or group of sites, etc. This information allows the user to determine when during a day or week that a specific product or group of products are being used, as well as how often members/users are required to wait to use a specific product group. As apparent, this information is useful in making FEU purchase decisions. 
     From the interface menu screen  202 , another selection is Product Popularity or Usage  214 , which analyzes the percent of available hours that a selected product group has been used. As discussed above with respect to the Peak Time analysis, from the Product Popularity or Usage analysis, product groups can be defined as one or more products, for example one specific FEU, all FEUs of a particular model, all FEUs in a particular product category, for instance treadmills, all FEUs in a product category from a particular manufacturer, an FEU of a product category from all manufacturers, all cardio FEUs at a particular site or group of sites, etc. As shown in query screen  440  of  FIG. 20 , the selectable parameters for this analysis can include FEU manufacturers  442 , product categories  444 , FEU Models  446 , the locations or regions in which the FEUs are located  448 , the day(s) of the week for the analysis  450 , and the duration of the analysis  452 . The result of the analysis is set forth in  FIG. 21  in both tabular and graphical format. 
     As illustrated in the upper screen  454 , the analysis illustrated in  FIG. 21  pertains to usage of treadmills at a particular location “Club X-302” during a specific time period. In the upper portion  454  of  FIG. 21  the treadmills are grouped by manufacturer  456  and then subgrouped by Model  458 . The information provided also includes the total equipment units  460 , the total hours of usage  462 , the total available hours  464 , and the percentage of total hours used  466 . Also, a bar graph illustrates the average number of hours that a particular product group was used per day. 
     The lower portion  470  of  FIG. 21  provides information on a specific FEU basis. The information that is provided in tabular form includes the manufacturer  472 , the model  474 , the hour meter reading  476 , the odometer reading  478 , the serial number of the FEU  480 , and the product description  482 . A bar graph  484  graphically illustrates the miles accrued for a particular FEU at a particular location through a specified time period. The graph can be of another parameter of the specific FEU, for example, hour meter reading. 
     Of course, the tabular and graphical information provided in  FIG. 21  would depend on the product groups selected for analysis. For example, the present analysis could be carried out on the basis of product categories for all manufacturers at the location(s) selected or by product category for each different manufacturer at the location(s) selected. Also, it can be appreciated that the foregoing information provided would be important in making purchasing decisions by the club/facility owner/manager. This information would also be valuable to equipment makers in showing how their equipment is viewed by actual users vis-vis comparable equipment by the manufacturers. 
     In addition to or as an alternative to providing reports regarding the popularity or usage of individual FEUs or types of FEUs, ICSs  20  may facilitate the control of the usage of one or more of FEUs.  FIG. 9A  schematically illustrates a fitness facility  1300  including multiple FEUs  1322 ,  1324 , displays  1326 ,  1328 ,  1330 ,  1332  and  1334 , usage sensors  1336 ,  1338  and ICS  20 . FEUs  1322  comprise a first type of FEU while FEUs  1324  comprise a second type of FEU different than the first type of FEU. For example, in one embodiment, each FEU  1322  may comprise an exercise cycle (such as the exercise cycle  22  shown and described above) while FEU  1324  may comprise an elliptical trainer (such as the elliptical trainer  24  shown and described above). In other embodiments, FEU  1322  and FEU  1324  may comprise other types of FEUs. 
     Each of FEUs  1322 ,  1324  is in communication with ICS  20 , in either a wired or wireless fashion. Each of FEUs  1322  and  1324  includes one or more fitness equipment usage sensors which sense or detect the usage of the particular FEU. This usage of the each particular FEU is communicated to ICS  20 . In one embodiment, the information may comprise real-time status information indicating whether at a particular moment a FEU is being utilized. In another embodiment, the usage information may include the amount of time that a FEU is being used as well as the time of day, time of week or exact period of time that the particular FEU is being utilized. In one embodiment, each particular FEU  1322 ,  1324  can communicate usage information directly to ICS  20 . In another embodiment, such usage information may be communicated or transmitted to one or more intermediate electronic or human recipients which then pass along the usage information to ICS  20 . 
     In the example illustrated, FEUs  1322  are in different rooms of fitness facility  1300 , rooms  1342 ,  1344 . In other embodiments, FEU  1322 ,  1324  may be in the same general area or the same room of fitness facility  1300 . Although fitness facility  1300  is illustrated as including two FEUs  1322  and two FEU  1324  are purposes of this description, in other embodiments, fitness facility  1300  may include a single room or greater than two rooms, may include a single or a greater than two FEU  3022  or FEU  1324 , and may include greater than two different types of FEUs, wherein each of the FEUs is a communication with ICS  20 . 
     Displays  1326 ,  1328 ,  1330 ,  1332  and  1334  comprise monitors, televisions, screens, light emitting diode panels or other churches configured to provide graphics and/or text for viewing by persons. Displays  1326  are associated with FEUs  1322 . In particular, displays  1326  are viewable by a person operating or using the associated FEU  1322 . Likewise, displays  1328  are associated with FEUs  1324 , line person to view the associate despite  1324  while the person is operating or using the associated FEU  1324 . 
     Displays  1330  and  1332  are not associated with any particular FEU. Displays  1330  and  1332  are remote from FEUs  1322  and  1324  in that displays  1330  and  1332  are provided for viewing by persons in surrounding areas of fitness facility  1300 . In the example illustrated, display  1330  is for general viewing by persons within room  1342  while display  1332  is provided for general viewing by persons or room  1342 . Displays  1330  and  1332  are in communication with ICS  20  such that ICS  20  may control what is being displayed by each of displays  1330  and  1332 . 
     Display  1334  is associated with ICS  20  display  1334  may be provided at a counter or check-in location  1346  for fitness facility  1300 . In another embodiment, display  1334  may be provided to a manager of fitness facility  1300 . Display  1334  displays management information for fitness facility  1300 . 
     Fitness facility usage sensor  1336  comprises a mechanism configured to sense or detect the overall usage of fitness facility  1300 . In one embodiment, sensor  1336  may comprise one or more sensors configured to detect a person entering facility  1300 . In one embodiment, sensor  1336  may comprise a turnstile. In another embodiment, sensor  1336  may comprise one or more cameras and associates detection and counting software to detect the number of individuals in fitness facility  1300 . In yet another embodiment, sensor  1336  may comprise a scanner or other card reader configured to read membership cards as persons or members enter facility  1302  further detect members or individuals leaving facility  1300 . Sensor  1336  communicates the usage information to ICS  20 . 
     Sensor  1338  is similar to sensor  1336  except that sensor  13  senses or detects the number of persons entering and leaving a particular region or room of fitness facility  1300 . In this manner, sensor  1338  may detect the usage of a particular region or room of fitness silly  1300 . In some embodiments where a particular type of FEUs or a particular subset of different types of FEUs or in a particular region or room, sensor  1338  may detect the usage of the particular type of FEUs or the particular subset of different types of FEUs. For example, a room or particular region of facility  1300  may be dedicated to cycling exercisers. By monitoring the number of individuals entering and leaving the room, sensor  1338  may detect the general usage of the cycling exercisers. In another embodiment, a room may be dedicated to both treadmills and stair steppers, wherein sensor  1338  identifies the usage of such treadmills and stair steppers by monitoring individuals entering and leaving the dedicated room. Sensor  1338  communicates the usage information to ICS  20 . 
     ICS  20  facilitates the control of the usage of FEUs  1322  and  1324 . ICS  20  is remote from each of FEUs  1322  and  1324  in that ICS  20  is not provided as a part of or incorporated in FEUs  1322 ,  1324 . ICS  20  receives or gathers usage information from each of FEUs  1332 ,  1334  and from sensors  1336 ,  1338 . ICS  20  receives usage information which provides the time period during which usage took place or further correlates real-time usage information (a momentary status of whether or not a FEU is being used at the moment) received or gathered to the time period (the hour, day, and/or month) at which such usage occurred (i.e., the time that the real time usage information was received). 
     Based upon the received or gathered usage information from one or more of FEUs  1322 , FEUs  1324  or sensors  1336 ,  1338 , ICS  20  calculates or determines a maximum available individual workout time setting for each of the FEUs  1322 ,  1334 . Upon receiving a maximum available individual workout time setting from ICS  20 , each FEU  1322 ,  1324  applies the setting such that the particular FEU is limited to a maximum available time for each person. In other words, each maximum available individual workout time setting causes the individual FEUs  1322 ,  1324  to limit a person&#39;s workout or exercise session on the particular FEU to a maximum amount of time. By controlling or setting the maximum available individual workout time for each FEU  1322 ,  1324  based upon usage information, ICS  20  is better able to even out usage of FEUs  1322 ,  1324  or is better able to ensure that more persons or individuals may have the opportunity to use a desired FEU  1322 ,  1324 . 
     In one embodiment, ICS  20  may set maximum available individual workout times for individual FEUs  1322 ,  1324  based upon usage information pertaining to the usage of the overall fitness facility  1300  as received from sensors  1336  and  1338 . In one embodiment, ICS  20  may set such maximum workout times based upon historical usage information. For example, if historical usage information indicates that a large number of individuals use fitness facility  1300  at particular hours of the day, on a particular days of the week or days of the month, ICS  20  may reduce the maximum available individual workout time setting for one or more of FEUs  1322 ,  1324  during those particular hours of the day or particular day of the week or days of the month. As a result, more persons may be provided with an opportunity to use FEUs  1332 ,  1344  and wait times may be reduced. 
     In another embodiment, ICS  20  may set maximum workout times based upon real time usage information for facility  1300 . For example, if a particular moment in time ICS  20  receives real-time usage information indicating that there are a large number of persons using fitness facility  1300  (as indicated by sensors  1336 ,  1338 , ICS  20  may transmit reduced maximum available individual workout time settings to FEUs  1322 ,  1324  once the person presently using particular FEUs  1322 ,  1324  has finished his or her workout such that the next person has a workout time that is limited to allow a greater number of persons to use FEUs  1322 ,  1324  or to reduce wait times. By way of a more particular example, if at 5:05 PM ICS  20  receives usage information indicating that the number of persons using fitness facility  1308  exceeds a predefined threshold, ICS  20  may generate such reduced individual maximum workout time settings. ICS  20  may transmit different maximum available workout time settings when different thresholds are surpassed. 
     In another embodiment, ICS  20  may set maximum available individual workout times for individual FEUs  1322 ,  1324  based upon usage information pertaining to the usage of the FEUs  1322 ,  1324  themselves as received from the usage sensors or detectors associated with FEUs  1322 ,  1324 . In one embodiment, ICS  20  may determine and transmit individual maximum workout time settings for individual FEUs  1322 ,  1324  based upon historical usage information for the individual FEUs  1322 ,  1324 . For example, if historical usage information for a particular FEU  1322  indicates a high level of usage during particular hours of the day and/or days of the week, ICS  20  may establish and transmit a lower maximum available individual workout time for the particular FEU  1322  at such hours of the day or days of the week. 
     Alternatively, ICS  20  may determine and transmit individual maximum workout time settings for individual FEUs  1322 ,  1324  based upon historical usage information for groups of a same type of FEU. For example, if historical usage information for all FEUs  1322  indicates a high level of usage for all of the particular type of FEUs  1322  during particular hours of the day and/or days of the week, ICS  20  may determine and transmit individual maximum workout time settings for each of the group of individual FEUs  1322  during the particular hours of the day or days of the week having high usage. 
     In still another embodiment, ICS  20  may determine transmit individual maximum workout time settings for individual FEUs  1322 ,  1324  based upon historical usage information for all of FEUs  1322 ,  1324 . For example, if historical usage information from all of FEUs  1322 ,  1324  indicates a high level of usage of all of FEUs  1322 ,  1324  during particular are the day and/or particular days a week, ICS  20  may determine transmit lower maximum individual workout time settings for such high usage hours. 
     In some embodiments, ICS  20  may determine and transmit individual maximum workout time settings for individual FEUs  1322 ,  1324  based upon real time usage information received from usage sensors or detectors associated with FEUs  1322 ,  1324 . For example, if ICS  20  receives or gathers usage information indicating that at a particular moment in time FEUs  1322  are in high usage (little down time between different users or persons using each FEU  1322  or the review or no FEUs  32  being available for use), ICS  20  may calculate and transmit a lower maximum individual workout time setting to FEU  1322  such that the next user of each FEU  1322  will have a lower maximum available time to use the FEU  1322 . 
     In another embodiment, ICS  20  may determine and transmit individual maximum workout time settings for FEU  1322 ,  1324  based upon real-time usage information received from usage sensors or detectors associated with multiple types of FEUs. For example, if ICS  20  receives or gathers usage information from FEUs  1322  and  1324  indicating that FEUs  1322  and  1324  have a high degree of usage, may calculate and transmit a lower maximum individual workout time setting to one or more of FEUs  1322 ,  1324  such that the next user of each FEU  1322 ,  1324  will have a lower maximum available time to use the FEU  1322 ,  1324 . 
     Each of the above methods by which ICS  20  may determine transmit maximum available individual workout time settings for one or more of FEUs  1322 ,  1324  may be available the manager or fitness trainers of fitness facility  1300 . In one embodiment, such usage sensors associated with FEUs  1322 ,  1324  and sensors  1336 ,  1338  as well as ICS  20  may allow a manager, director, or a person in charge of fitness facility  1300  to change one or more of the above modes of operation. In some embodiments, ICS  20  may also allow the person in charge of fitness facility  1300  to select a different threshold levels of usage and the corresponding different maximum available individual workout time settings or times using an input, such as a keyboard, into communication with ICS  20 . In other embodiments, such thresholds and setting values make outdated using one or more algorithms to achieve various objectives such as reduced weight time, maximum number of users and the like. In some embodiments, different users may be provided with different maximum available individual workout time settings or times. For example, premium members may be provided with a greater maximum available individual workout time setting as compared to non-premium members. In some embodiments, persons may be required to input a member identification or use a member identification card when attempting to use a particular FEU, wherein the enhanced maximum available individual workout time may be indicated or provided. 
     In addition to transmitting the maximum available individual workout time settings and times to FEUs  1322 ,  1324 , ICS  20  may also transmit such time values to display  1326 ,  1328 . As a result, a person attempting to use a particular FEU  1322 ,  1324  is notified of the maximum time available for use of the particular FEU  1322 ,  1324  at that moment in time. In the example illustrated, ICS  20  further transmits the maximum available individual workout times for multiple FEUs  1322  and multiple FEUs  1324  to displays  1330  and  1332 . Display  1330  and  1332  allow persons in fitness facility  1300  to view which of FEUs  1322 ,  1324  or which types of FEUs may have reduced maximum available individual workout times or larger maximum available individual workout times. Displays  1330  and  1332  enable persons to better decide which of FEUs  1322 ,  1324  he or she should use. 
     In other embodiments, in lieu of comprising monitors or display panels mounted within fitness facility  1300 , displays  1330 ,  1332  may alternatively comprise portable displays. For example, in one embodiment, ICS  20  may transmit data identifying the maximum available individual workout times for different FEUs at a particular moment in time or for particular future periods of time to such portable displays. Examples such portable displays include personal data assistants (PDAs), cell phones, digital music players and other portable electronic display devices. In one embodiment, ICS  20  may alternatively or additionally present data identifying the maximum available individual workout times for different FEUs at a particular moment in time or for particular future periods of time on a network site or Internet website which may be accessed by person using facility  1300  or planning to use fitness facility  1300 . 
     As further shown by  FIG. 9A , usage information from FEUs  1322 ,  1324  and from sensors  1336 ,  1338  may alternatively or additionally be communicated or transmitted to an additional or alternative ICS  1320  at a remote location or remote facility  1400 . In such an embodiment, ICS  1320  may constitute a centralized control hub receiving usage information from multiple different fitness facilities. ICS  1320  may determine transmit maximum available individual workout times or time settings for the FEUs at the different fitness facilities. 
     Preventative Maintenance (PM) tracking  216  is another possible selection from the interface menu  202  shown in  FIG. 9 . When this option is selected, the user is led to query screen  490  shown in  FIG. 22 . As in many of the other reports, the PM tracking report can be organized by product groups. To this end, the query screen criteria includes the site of geographic region for the report  492 , the product category  494 , a primary sort option  496 , for example, product category, manufacturer, installation date of the FEU, as well as a secondary sort criteria  498 . A further selectable criteria is whether the preventative maintenance suggestion has been signed off by the responsible personnel  500 . 
     The report results are tabulated in screen  501 , shown in  FIG. 23 , in matrix format. The columns of information, include the manufacturer  502 , the equipment type  503 , the Model number/designation  504 , the owner I.D. number or designation  505 , the serial number of the FEU  506 , the installation date  507  of the FEU, the hour meter reading  508 , the mileage or stride number reading  509 , the recommended PM to be carried out  510 , and an icon  511  to view the service report for the FEU. Also provided is a first column of colored indicia  512 , with the colors selected to indicate the urgency of the preventative maintenance or whether or not the preventative maintenance has been carried out. Screen  501  also includes a key  524  for the PM column  510 . 
     It will be appreciated that the information provided in  FIG. 23  can make the carrying out of preventative maintenance operations more efficient by saving time and costs while improving the accuracy and compliance of the preventative maintenance. This information also provides a fast and efficient manner of collecting hour meter and odometer readings on FEUs. 
     From the menu screen  202  of the report interface, the Unit Workout History  218  may be selected by the user. These summaries provide how products or product groups are utilized in the clubs and gyms, for example the workout courses used, lengths of the workouts, the speeds and resistance levels that are being used. This information can be helpful to the club/facility owner/manager as well as manufacturers to determine how better to offer training, instruction, and appropriate equipment to members/customers. When the Unit Workout History option  218  is selected, the user is led to a query screen  513 , shown in  FIG. 24 , which may be similar to the query screen in many of the other reports/options described herein. The information sought can be categorized by product group. To this end, screen  513  may include the following selectable criteria: manufacturers of the FEUs  514 , product category  515 , club location or region  516 , query dates  518 , and/or primary sort options  520 . Of course, a secondary sort option could also be provided, not shown. 
     The information for the Unit Workout History report may be provided in graphical and/or tabular format, shown in  FIG. 25 , which illustrates information pertaining to usage of a particular treadmill at Club X-101. The graphical information includes a first bar graph  522  showing the number of workouts of particular durations. As shown in the graph, most of the workouts are from 11 to 20 minutes. A second bar graph  524  shows which of the treadmill workout courses were selected most often. As shown in the graph, the manual course was most popular. The tabular information  526  provides specific information on the usage of a particular FEU. In this regard, the FEU is identified in box  525  in terms of the manufacturer, the model designation, the manufacturer&#39;s serial number, the S/W and the communications address. The usage information tabulated includes the location  528  and the Model type of the FEU  530 , the date of the workout  532 , the time that the workout started  534 , the course selected for the workout  536 , the calories expended by the exerciser  538 , the distance covered during the workout  540 , the maximum speed (in miles per hour) attained during the workout  542 , the maximum incline  544  of the treadmill during the workout, and the length of the workout  546 . As will be appreciated, this provides very valuable, detailed information to owners and managers of clubs and facilities, as well as to equipment manufacturers. 
     A further selection available from the menu screen  202  of the report interface of  FIG. 9  is a Special Reports feature  220 . When this selection is made, screen  560  appears as shown in  FIG. 26 . Such reports are for requests not fulfilled by existing report formats and if the user would prefer that Service Tracker™, the fictitious administrator of System  18 , create the report for the user. The user provides Service Tracker™ with a particular issue or question to be answered, an analysis to be formed, data to be gathered, etc. Thereafter, Service Tracker™ will carry out the request by the user and provide the report via tabular and/or graphical output. Example 1, designated as  562 , of a particular type of report may be an overall analysis of peak time usage of FEUs to recommend a better assortment of products to the user. Another possibility would be Example 2, designated as  564  consisting of an End of Fiscal Year Report showing usage (wear) on all products purchased in a particular year. Another possibility would be Example 3, designated as  566 , requesting an analysis to support a better distribution of current products and new products between or among specific locations. As will be appreciated, a very wide variety of special reports are possible through the Special Reports request. 
       FIG. 9B  illustrates one example of such an analysis to support a better distribution of FEUs. In particular,  FIG. 9B  schematically illustrates fitness equipment unit distribution management system  1400  according to an example embodiment. Fitness equipment unit distribution management system automatically collects usage information from fitness equipment units and provides a report, display or other output of recommended or suggested changes to the current distribution of fitness equipment units based upon the collected usage information. The suggested changes to the current distribution of fitness equipment units may be (1) such that the useful life of such fitness equipment units is prolonged, (2) such that those units that are used most frequently or used for prolonged times have less wear to therefore provide more persons exercising with greater reliability and satisfaction and/or (3) such that the time at which a fitness equipment unit needs to be replaced may be delayed. As shown by  FIG. 9B , system  1400  comprises fitness facilities  1400 A (FFA) and  1400 B (FFB) (collectively referred to as fitness facilities  1400 ) and central computing device  1404 . 
     Fitness facilities  1400  comprise buildings, rooms or other locations that are remote from, or separate to, one another and that contain health and exercise equipment or fitness equipment units. Fitness facilities  1400  may also include different areas or regions of a single larger facility. Fitness facilities  14  may be owned, operated or managed by the same entity. The output provided by computing device  1404  facilitates management of the distribution of equipment or fitness equipment units at facilities  400  by the entity that owns, operates or manages both facilities  1400 . 
     In the example illustrated, fitness facility  1400 A comprises two “types” of fitness equipment units denoted by “X” and “Y”. For purposes of this disclosure, the term “type” refers to a general type or category of exercise equipment. Examples of such different categories of exercise equipment include elliptical machines, stair steppers, treadmills, stationary bikes, adaptive motion trainers or machines and the like. Each category or “type” may include different machines from different manufacturers, different machines of different brands or different machines having different features. For example, in one embodiment, “X” may denote elliptical machines while “Y” denotes treadmills. Although fitness facilities  1400  illustrated as including two such “types” of fitness equipment units for ease of illustration and discussion, fitness facilities  1400  may include additional types as well the additional numbers of types of fitness equipment units. 
       FIG. 9B  schematically illustrates each of fitness facilities  1400  in solid lines prior to implementation of distribution changes as recommended by computing device  1404 . Those changes recommended by computing device  1404  based upon collected usage information are illustrated in  FIG. 9B  in broken lines. As shown by  FIG. 9B , prior to implementation of any distribution changes, fitness facility  1400 A includes fitness equipment units  1410  (FEU1(X)),  1412 (FEU2(X)),  1414  (FEU3(X)) and  1416  (FEU4(X)) of type X at locations  1420 ,  1422 ,  1424  and  1426 , respectively. Fitness facility  1400 A includes fitness equipment units  1430 (FEU1(Y)),  1432 (FEU2(Y)) and  1434  (FEU3(Y)), of type Y at locations  1440 ,  1442  and  1444 , respectively. Prior to implementation of any distribution changes, fitness facility  1400 B includes fitness equipment units  1450  (FEU6(X)),  1452 (FEU7(X)) and  1454  (FEU8(X)) of type X at locations  1460 ,  1462  and  1464 , respectively. Fitness facility  1400 B includes fitness equipment units  1470 (FEU4(Y)) and  1472 (FEU5(Y)) of type Y at locations  1480  and  1482 , respectively. 
     In the example illustrated, a current cumulative usage state (reflecting the age or total wear) of each fitness equipment unit is schematically illustrated with a solid vertical bar, the higher or taller the solid bar, the higher or larger the extent of usage of the particular fitness equipment unit. Such usage may be measured using any one a variety of different metrics, for example, total hours of usage, total miles as reflected by an odometer, total number of separate exercise sessions by users, and/or combinations thereof. The depicted bars are for illustrative purposes only to indicate a state of the machines or fitness equipment units. Any fitness equipment units illustrated without any bars constitute fitness equipment units that are new or substantially new. 
     In the example illustrated, the usage trend at each location is schematically illustrated with a hollow vertical bar. The usage trend or rate constitutes the extent that a particular fitness equipment unit at a particular location is used during a predefined period of time. For example, if a first fitness equipment unit at a first location is used 80 hours for a month and a second fitness equipment unit at a second location is used 50 hours during the same month, the higher usage rate or trend of the first fitness query unit at the first location would be represented by a taller hollow bar as compared to the smaller hollow bar representing the usage rate at the second location. In some instances, the usage state of a fitness equipment unit may not correspond to the usage rate at a particular location. For example, an older machine having a high usage state may be located at a location having a low usage rate. Those fitness equipment units which are all installed when new will have usage states corresponding to the usage rates at locations in which such units were installed. 
     As further shown by  FIG. 9B , fitness facilities  1400 A and  1400 B include computing devices  1490 A and  1490 B, respectively. Computing devices  1490 A and  1490 B (collectively referred to as computing devices  1490 ) each comprise a controller or control server  1492  and a display  1494 . Control server  1492  comprises one or more processing units in communication with each of fitness equipment units in the associative fitness facility so as to be capable of automatically collecting usage information from each of the fitness equipment units. For purposes of this application, the term “processing unit” shall mean a presently developed or future developed processing unit that executes sequences of instructions contained in a memory. Execution of the sequences of instructions causes the processing unit to perform steps such as generating control signals. The instructions may be loaded in a random access memory (RAM) for execution by the processing unit from a read only memory (ROM), a mass storage device, or some other persistent storage. In other embodiments, hard wired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions to implement the functions described. For example, control server  1492  may be embodied as part of one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). Unless otherwise specifically noted, the controller is not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software, nor to any particular source for the instructions executed by the processing unit. 
     According to one embodiment, control server  1492  of fitness facility  1400 A communicates with each of the fitness equipment units of facility  1400 A in a wired or wireless fashion. Likewise, control server  1492  of fitness facility  1400 B communicates with each of fitness equipment units of facility  1400 B in a wired or wireless fashion. Following instructions or a computer readable program contained in an associated persistent storage device or memory (or an integrated circuit) associated with control server  1492 , control server  1492  automatically collects usage information from each of the associative fitness equipment units on a periodic basis. For example, control server  1492  may directly access and/or directly receive signals representing use of the associative fitness equipment unit. Control server  1482  may directly access or directly receive signals from an odometer (identify miles or distance usage) or clock (identifying time are hourly usage). In another embodiment, control server  1492  may collect or access such usage information from a memory or other storage device associated with the fitness equipment unit itself. Because such data collection is performed automatically on a periodic basis, no user or manager intervention is required. In other embodiments, the collection of data may be done in response to a command by a person or trigger event. Such usage information may additionally include a warranty expiration date for the fitness equipment unit. 
     The usage information collected may include both the usage state of each fitness equipment unit, the usage rate at each of the locations at which the fitness equipment units are located or installed, the number of separate usage sessions of each fitness equipment unit or combinations thereof. Such usage information may additionally include the date of installation and warranty expiration date or dates for each fitness equipment unit. In one embodiment, the usage rate for a fitness equipment unit may be calculated based upon the usage state and the date of installation data for the fitness equipment unit. 
     Each display  1494  comprises a device configured to present output from server  1492  on a panel, screen or monitor. In some embodiments, display  1494  may be omitted. In yet other embodiments where computing device  1404  itself directly communicates with each of the fitness equipment units at each of the fitness facilities  1400 , computing devices  1490  may be omitted. 
     Computing device  1404  comprises a controller or control server  1496  and output device  1498 . Control server  1496  comprises one or more processing units in communication with control service  1492  of each of a plurality of fitness facilities such as fitness facilities  1400 . In one embodiment, control server  1496  is remote from fitness facilities  1400  and communicates with fitness facilities  1400  across the Internet  1497  or other computer network. In one embodiment, control server  1496  communicates in a wired or wireless fashion. 
     Control server  1496  is configured to operate according to operating instructions (software, code or computer readable program) contained in a memory or other persistent storage device (integrated circuit, flash memory) associated with control server  1496 . In accordance with such instructions, control server  1496  automatically collects, gathers, retrieves or requests usage information regarding each of the fitness equipment units at fitness facilities  1400 . In the example illustrated in which each fitness facility  1400  has its own computing device  1490 , controls server  1496  obtains such usage information from computing devices  1490 . In other embodiments where one or more of fitness facilities do not include a dedicated computing device  1490 , control server  1496  may communicate directly with individual fitness equipment units to directly obtain such usage information from the fitness equipment units in the fitness facility that does not include a local computing device  1490 . 
     In accordance with the instructions, control server  1496  additionally analyzes the usage information to formulate or generate a suggested or recommended distribution change for the fitness equipment units at an individual fitness facility or amongst multiple fitness facilities. In one embodiment, such distribution changes generated by control server  1496  take into account the locations in the fitness facility or facilities that are experiencing the higher levels of usage. For example, elliptical exercise machines next to a particular window, the locker room or a snack bar may experience greater levels of usage as compared to elliptical exercise machines and other locations in a fitness facility. In one embodiment, the distribution changes may result in newer or less used fitness equipment units, such as elliptical exercise machines, being relocated to those locations experiencing higher use to better ensure reliability and user satisfaction at the higher use location or locations in the fitness facility. 
     In one embodiment, the distribution change generated by control server  1496  is such that usage of fitness equipment units is more uniform (less varied) amongst the fitness equipment units. In one embodiment, the distribution chains are such that the usage of fitness equipment units with usage greater than an average usage of it is clearly units at a particular fitness facility or amongst multiple fitness facilities is reduced. In one embodiment, the distribution change additionally takes into account the age of the individual fitness equipment units and/or the expiration dates of warranties associated with the fitness equipment units to either maximize use of fitness equipment units covered under warranty or to delay the date at which fitness equipment units must be replaced, potentially resulting in larger numbers of particular types of fitness equipment units being replaced at one time to facilitate volume purchase or leasing discounts as well as to reduce installation and set up interruptions. Once the distribution change has been generated by control server  1496 , control server  1496  outputs the distribution change using output device  1498 . 
     Output device  1498  comprises one or more device configured to present or make available the output of distribution changes to the person or entity owning, operating or managing fitness facilities  1400 . In the example illustrated, output device  1498  includes multiple modes for providing such output of distribution change. In a first mode, output device  1498  includes a display, such as a monitor, screen or panel directly connected to control server  1496 , wherein the output may be presented on the display. In a second mode, output device  1498  additionally comprises a printing device configured to print a hard copy version of the output of distribution changes. In a third mode, output device  1498  comprises a communication interface configured to communicate electronic data or electronic files representing the output of distribution changes to a remote location via a local area network, the Internet or the like, whereby the owner/operator/manager may access information on a website, at a management facility, on a personal data assistant, on a cell phone or the like. In some embodiments, output device  1498  may include less than all of the above modes. 
     According to one embodiment, computing device  1404  is additionally configured to implement the distribution changes recommended in the output. In particular, computing device  1404  is configured to receive authorization input from the owner/operator/manager, to verify the owner/operator/manager&#39;s credentials, to receive selections from the owner/operator/manager regarding the carrying out of all or portions of the recommended distribution changes and to transfer such distribution change instructions to those individuals responsible for carrying out such distribution changes. For example, in one embodiment, the owner/operator/manager, upon receiving output on website, may be provided with the opportunity to check, highlight, click on or otherwise select one or more of the recommended distribution changes (relocation of fitness equipment units, switching of fitness equipment unit locations, purchase of new fitness equipment units to change the composition of fitness equipment unit types). In one embodiment, this opportunity may presented only after the identity and credentials of the owner/operator/manager has been verified. 
     Upon receiving such selections, control server  1496  automatically forwards appropriate instructions to those individuals for carrying out the distribution changes. For example, control server  1496  may electronically forward instructions to a facility manager or person at the facility responsible for fitness equipment unit maintenance or set up, instructing the manager a person to relocate or move one or more fitness equipment units. Control server  1496  may also electronically forward purchase orders or requests to those retailers or other fitness equipment unit suppliers. As a result, in some embodiments, control server  1496  not only recommends or suggest distribution changes based upon the automatic collection of usage data but also facilitates implementation of such distribution changes. 
       FIG. 9B  illustrates one example of output  1500  provided by control server  1496  based upon or using usage information from fitness equipment units of fitness facilities  1400 . As noted above, such output  1500  may be present are communicated using output device  1498  in one of various modes. The distribution changes included in output  1500  are further schematically illustrated as implemented fitness facilities  1400  in broken lines. 
     Output  1500  includes distribution changes  1502 ,  1504 ,  1506 ,  1508  and  1510 . One of distribution changes  1502  recommended by control server  1496  based upon such collected usage information is to switch the locations of fitness equipment units  1416  and  1454  between fitness facilities  1400 A and  1400 B. This distribution change  1502  is further illustrated by broken line arrows  1512 ,  1514 . As indicated by the usage bars on the fitness equipment units, fitness facility  1400 A is experiencing a large usage of fitness equipment units of the type X. The example distribution change  1502  relieves some of the usage pressure in fitness facility  1400  by moving fitness equipment unit  1416  which has a high usage state  1600  to fitness facility  1400 B while moving fitness equipment unit  1454  which has a relatively low cumulative usage state  1602  to fitness facility  1400 A. As a result, the collective reliability of the fitness equipment units of type X at facility  1400 A where the total usage rate is greater is enhanced. 
     Distribution change  1504  switches the locations of fitness equipment units  1410  and  1412 . This change is further indicated by a broken line arrows  1518 ,  1520 . This change results in the fitness equipment unit  1412  having a high usage state at a high usage rate location  1422  being moved to a low usage rate location  1420  and further results in fitness equipment unit  1410  having a low usage state at a low usage rate location  1420  being moved to a high usage rate location  1422 . As a result, a newer are less used fitness equipment unit is offered at a location at a higher usage rate, reducing likelihood of reliability issues at the most preferred or higher use location in fitness facility  1400 A. 
     Distribution change  1506  further addresses the high cumulative usage rate of the fitness equipment units of type X at facility  1400 A by adding a new fitness equipment unit  1524  at a new location  1526 , increasing capacity or availability for fitness equipment units of type X at facility  1400 A. 
     Distribution change  1508  adds a new fitness equipment unit  1528  at a new location  1529  in facility  1400 B. As a result, additional usage capacity is provided to facility  1400 B to relieve the high usage rates existing at locations  1482  and  1484 . 
     Distribution change  1510  relocate fitness equipment unit  1434  from fitness  1400 A to a new location  1530  at fitness facility  1400 B. As a result, the excess capacity of low usage state of unit  1434  at the low usage rate of location  1442  is transferred to fitness facility  1400 B to address the larger usage demand at facility  1400 B. 
     Trouble Shooting Service Issues  222  comprise a further inquiry that can be made through the menu screen  202  of the report interface  190 . This selection helps a user obtain more information concerning a service alert. When a service alert is received, the user can select the Model type and the error code, and thereby receive a list of common trouble shooting ideas. The user can also see the parts required to repair the FEU so as to be able to order the parts more easily. To this end, the user is provided with views of the product and is given instructions from the manufacturer&#39;s user manual. For example, as shown in  FIG. 27 , a depiction of the FEU can be provided to the user. From the depiction, the user can choose a specific area of the FEU (for example, those areas that are circled in  FIG. 27 ) to obtain not only more information, but also a diagram of the parts composing that portion of the FEU together with the applicable part numbers. 
     A further available selection from the menu screen  202  is the Automatic Parts Inventory  224 . In this option, when an error code indicates that replacement of a part is necessary, Service Tracker™ tells the manufacturer that a particular part is required. The manufacturer&#39;s internal system can automatically send or offer to send the part to the location predesignated by the customer, whether to a warehouse, a third party service provider warehouse, club location, etc. As will be apparent, this particular option can speed the repair of the affected FEU. 
     The user interface screen  202  also allows the user to obtain specific current status and maintenance reports for all FEUs owned by the user through the service menu  570 , as shown in  FIG. 9 . The service menu  570  has various selections, including an All Unit Service Status  572 , a Specific Unit Service Status  574 , and a Current Maintenance Report selection  576 . 
     When the All Units Service Status  572  is selected, a report is displayed for the service status of all units owned by the user, shown in screen  577  of  FIG. 28 . The information may be arranged in matrix format with the information provided in columns, including the Model designation of the FEU  578 , the type of FEU  580 , the FEU identification number as assigned by the owner  582 , the current service status of the FEU  584 , the current error status  586 , whether or not an error alert has been sent  588 , and the date and time of the last reply received from the FEU  590 . Also, in a first column  592 , color coded icons can be provided for a desired parameter to be displayed. For example, perhaps the color red can be displayed if the current error is shown in column  586 , perhaps green if the current status of the unit is active, and yellow if the current status of the unit is idle, and thus, ready for use. 
     Further information is provided in the screen  596  for a particular unit, see  FIG. 29 . Information on a particular unit can be obtained by simply selecting one of the product I.D. numbers  582  shown in  FIG. 28 . The further information as shown in screen  596  includes the Model designation of the FEU  598 , the type of FEU  600 , the owner I.D. number or designation of the FEU  602 , the S/W version  604  the manufacturer&#39;s serial number  606 , the communication address  608 , the last service report/alert date and time  610 , the odometer reading  612 , the hour meter reading  614 , and the current error code  616 . From screen  596 , it is possible to obtain the service history of the FEU throughout its entire life or during a particular time period, by selecting a start date  618  and an ending date  620  and then selecting the “View History” box  621 . Also, it is possible for the user to enter a description of a problem that is occurring with an FEU in textbox  622 . 
     The service history record of the FEU may be provided, as shown in screen  624 ,  FIG. 30 . In the first or upper portion of the Service History record, identification information can be provided, including the Model designation  626 , the manufacturer&#39;s serial number  628 , the S/W  630 , the identification number of the FEU as provided by the owner  632 , and the communications address for the FEU  634 . This information should be the same as in screen  596 . Screen  624  also sets forth in tabular format the service history of the selected FEU, including the date of service  636 , the time  638  of service on the particular date, the state of the unit at that time  640 , the hour meter reading  642 , the odometer reading  644 , the then current error codes  646 , and whether or not a service alert was sent  648 . As apparent, the foregoing provides a convenient way for the club/facility owner/manager to ascertain the current service status of all units owned as well as the service history of any particular FEU. 
     Through selection of the Unit Status Search  574  in menu  570 , the foregoing information can be obtained for a particular FEU owned by the user, by navigating through applicable selection options in a standard manner. 
     From menu  570 , the user can also obtain a current preventative maintenance report for any or all of the user&#39;s units at a particular location or at all locations and as of a particular date. Screen  660  sets forth a preventative maintenance report for all of the user&#39;s FEUs in tabular form, see  FIG. 31 . The information provided in each column includes the Model designation  662 , the type of FEU  664 , the identification number  666 , the manufacturer&#39;s serial number  668 , the installation date of the FEU  670 , the hour meter reading  672 , the miles/strides odometer reading  674 , the maintenance status  676 , and the date of the maintenance status  678 . Screen  660  also includes the location of the FEU  680  as well as the date of the report  682 . As will be appreciated, the foregoing provides a convenient manner in which the user can ascertain the preventative maintenance status of each of its FEUs. Moreover, the user can select a particular FEU to obtain its preventative maintenance history in much the same way that the service status history for a particular unit was described above and illustrated in  FIGS. 29 and 30 . 
     The interface screen  202  in  FIG. 9  also includes a menu  700  that allows a user to conveniently access usage information pertaining to its FEUs. Available options include Current Usage information  702 , Usage Trend information  704 , usage information, Usage Search, for a specific FEU  706 . 
     If the Current Usage option  702  is selected, the information about the current usage of the user&#39;s FEUs is provided in tabular format, for example see screen  712 , shown in  FIG. 32 . The columns of information provided include the manufacturer&#39;s Model designation of the FEU  714 , the type of FEU  716 , the identification number of the FEU  718 , the current usage status of the FEU  720 , the current speed of the FEU  722 , the current incline of the FEU  724 , the current resistance level of the FEU  726 , and the current course being utilized  728 . Also, as a first column  730 , a color designation can be provided to perhaps designate the usage status of the FEU with different colors for various status states. 
     It is possible to obtain the usage history of a particular FEU by selecting that particular FEU in  FIG. 32 , which leads the user to screen  734 , as shown in  FIG. 33 . This selection screen is similar to screen  596  shown in  FIG. 29 . In this regard, screen  738  includes much of the same information for a particular unit as set forth in screen  712 , including Model number  736 , equipment type  738 , the manufacturer&#39;s serial number  740 , the FEU identification number  742 , the S/W version  744 , the hour meter reading  746 , the odometer reading  748 , the current status  750 , the current error code  752 , if any, the current speed of the unit  754 , the current incline  756 , and the current resistance level  758 . Also, in screen  734 , the user can select a particular time period for the usage history desired by entering dates in the start date box  770  and the end date box  772  and then selecting the “View History” box. If no dates are entered, the entire usage history is provided. Also, screen  734  includes a description box  774  wherein the user can enter a description about the FEU in question. 
     Completion of query screen  734  results in the generation of a report screen  780  which provides a usage history of the FEU for the time period selected. Identification information for the FEU is set forth at the top of screen  780 , including the manufacturer&#39;s Model designation  782 , the manufacturer&#39;s serial number of the FEU  784 , the S/W  786 , and the communications address for the FEU  788 . The historical information on the usage of the FEU includes the time  790  and the date  792  that each workout began as well as the course chosen for the workout  794 , the number of calories expended during the workout  796 , the workout distance in the number of strides or mileage covered  798 , and the duration of the workout  800 . As will be apparent, this information can be valuable in telling the user how a particular FEU is being utilized by customers. 
     If the Usage Trends option  704  is selected in menu  700 , graphical representations of equipment usage for a desired time period is presented for a desired product group, for example as shown in screen  900 , see  FIG. 35 . This screen shows three separate graphs, including a first graph  902  showing average usage hours per day by manufacturer&#39;s Model designation during the selected time period. The second graph  904  shows the average usage hours per day by type of FEU, for example treadmills and elliptical cross-trainers. Graph  906  shows selected equipment usage by time of day in terms of a percentage of the equipment being utilized in a club or gym during the selected date duration. This information can be very useful in assisting the user in making purchase decisions and other decisions pertaining to its FEUs. 
     Option  706  in menu  700  allows the user to obtain usage information for a particular FEU. This option can lead the user through menus similar to those described above to select a desired FEU, and then the information for that FEU is displayed in a manner identical or very similar to that shown in  FIGS. 33 and 34 , above. 
     As noted above, other interface systems, formats, and layouts can be utilized in the present invention in place of interface  190 .  FIGS. 36-43  illustrate portions of an alternative interface system utilizing an initial menu screen  1000  shown in  FIG. 36 . This menu screen has various report selections, including Usage Summary  1002 , Usage Summary by Model  1004 , Unit Workout History  1006 , Unit Service History  1008 , Installation and Warranty Tracking  1010 . Also, in screen  1000  it is possible to request Unit Service Alerts  1012 , Network Service Alerts  1014 , and it is possible to request Service for a particular FEU by selection  1016 . The foregoing selections available in screen  1000  are similar to corresponding screens illustrated and described above, perhaps with the exception of the installation and warranty tracking option  1010 , which option will now be described in more detail. 
     Selecting the Installation and Warranty Tracking option  1010  in  FIG. 36  leads to a series of query screens shown in  FIGS. 37-42  to provide the user with a step-by-step intuitive query process.  FIG. 37  shows an initial screen  1020  which is used to select a location(s) to be queried. The location(s) could be all of the locations of a particular company or club those locations in a particular county, a region of a county, a state, a county of the state, a city, a section of a city, down to an individual location or even a floor, section, or area of a particular location. Access to specific locations will depend on authorization, for example, employees of Company A will not likely be given access to information pertaining to Company B, though information to all companies would be available to the enterprise administrator. 
     Once a location is chosen, the user is led to the next screen, screen  1022 , shown in  FIG. 38 . In this screen, the user selects the type or type(s) of equipment with respect to which the query is being made, as shown in menu  1024 . With each progressive screen, the information selected from prior screens is also provided in the right hand portion of the screen. For example, in screen  1022 , the location selected from screen  1020  is provided at  1026 . After selecting the product category, the user is led to screen  1030 ,  FIG. 39 , wherein the user can select a particular model or models of the product type selected in screen  1022 . The user can select all models if desired from menu  1032 . Again, that criteria selected in prior screens is set forth in screen  1030 , as shown in location  1034 . 
     Next, the user is directed to screen  1040  shown in  FIG. 40 . In this screen, the user selects from menu  1042  the type or types of warranty being ascertained, for example a warranty on the frame, the unit display, the motor, controller, parts and/or labor. Again, the selections made in the prior screens are shown in the right hand side of screen  1040  at location  1044 . Next, the user is led to screen  1052 , shown in  FIG. 41 , which provides display options for the Installation and Warranty Tracking information. The information can be displayed based on the manufacturer&#39;s serial number  1054 , or the Unit Identifier used by the FEU owner  1056 . Also, an option  1058  is provided to limit the present inquiry to only warranties that have expired. Again, in the right hand portion of screen  1052  the prior selection criteria is set forth at location  1060 . 
     The last query screen  1070  is shown in  FIG. 42 . In this screen, the user may select a date range for the Installation and Warranty Information being requested. This date range may be a start date  1072  as well as an ending date  1074 . At any of the query screens, it is possible to go back to a prior screen by selecting the back button  1076  or to cancel the inquiry by selecting the cancel button  1078 . Also, the prior selection screens ( 1020 ,  1022 ,  1030 ,  1040 ,  1042 ) have a “next” button to go to the subsequent query screen. Since screen  1070  is the last query screen, this screen has a “Get Report” button to display the information based on the selections made in the query screens. 
     Screen  1080  shown in  FIG. 43  sets forth the resulting information based on the query criteria selected by the user. The information is provided in columnar format. Also, the criteria selected for the query is set forth in the upper portion of the screen. The columns of information include the Product Category  1082 , the Product Model(s)  1084 , the Location of the FEU  1086 , the Unit Identifier or ID number  1088 , the Installation Date of the unit  1090 , the hour meter reading  1092 , the odometer reading  1094 , and a service history view column  1096 , which if selected will provide the service history of the particular FEU. The displayed information also includes the warranty expiration dates  1098  for different components of the FEU which are covered by warranty, including the frame  1100 , the display  1102 , the motor  1104 , and motor fan  1106 . Also, for the various components covered by warranty, columns can be provided for separate warranty dates for replacement parts  1108  and labor  1110 . It will be appreciated that the warranty expiration for parts and/or labor may differ for different components of the FEU. 
     Typically, the foregoing installation and warranty information is retained in a data silo  26  as opposed to an ICS for security reasons. In a data silo, it is possible to limit the ability to enter, delete and/or change installation and warranty expiration data. 
     As noted above, service for a FEU can be requested from  FIG. 36 .  FIG. 44  illustrates an exemplary service request screen  1200  in which the user inserts particular information concerning the FEU, its location, and the requestor. This screen provides a space for typing in the symptom that the FEU is exhibiting. The service request is forwarded to a service provider, with the information concerning the service provider and the routing of the request to the service provider being enterable into screen  1200 . 
     In accordance with other features of the reporting interface aspect, the reporting interface includes the ability to request additional maintenance or action from one or more other recipients. This request is treated similar to a service alert message as discussed above, except it originates with the user in the reporting interface. This feature is useful to clear a record or to simply give feedback information from the user to the ICS or other party. 
     As will be appreciated from a reading of the above, the present invention provides numerous advantages over the prior art methods of service tracking and alerting. The use of multiple ICSs  20  to electronically and wirelessly obtain and store real time service information in a centralized manner is efficient and provides tremendous access to actual service data. The connection to an accumulated data storage unit  26  enables viewers to analyze FEU service issues over an extended period of time. The service alert messaging aspect shortens the time needed to identify, diagnose, and repair or service a particular FEU. 
     Further, the reporting interface feature automatically formulates service information and makes the information instantaneously available to the user, thus giving the user valuable insight into the operation and maintenance of the FEUs. This ability to view aggregated data between clubs and between products simultaneously and on a real time basis is unique in the fitness industry. Such service information may be used to level the usage of the FEUs, determine when an FEU should be replaced, make better future FEU purchases, help the facility managers to better know their customers, enable facility managers to provide better motivation or training to their customers, etc. 
     While a preferred embodiment of the invention has been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, if only one data silo is used, it can be essentially integrated into the enterprise platform. Also, rather than retaining any significant amount of data or records in the ICS, the data received by the ICS from the FEUs can be sent immediately to the data silo  26  or to enterprise platform  32 , or can be sent periodically and then the data purged from the ICS. In this regard, the ICS does not have to be configured to manipulate or store data other than the data being accumulated from the ICSs.