A computer based system automatically gathers, analyzes, and delivers
information relating to the procurement and utilization of a plurality of
such assets, such as a fleet of industrial equipment, so as to maximize
productivity and to reduce operating costs and administrative burdens.
Each of the assets is preferably provided with a data acquisition device
for sensing and storing one or more operating characteristics associated
therewith. That information can be transmitted through space to a
receiver connected to a local controller for storing such information and
for transmitting such information over the internet to a remote analysis
system. The remote analysis system automatically updates individual
records associated with each of the assets with the information received
from the internet. In response to such information, the remote analysis
system automatically analyzes the newly provided information and
generates reports regarding scheduled maintenance, warranty coverage, and
other management information. These reports can be transmitted back over
the internet to an administrative controller for review by one or more
persons responsible for managerial review. Additionally or alternatively,
the remote analysis system can automatically post such reports on a
website and, thus, be made available to one or more of such persons upon
request.