Connected Washers and Dryers Send Notification via Internet

Mac-Gray Corporation, a supplier of card and coin-operated laundry facilities management in North America, has developed an Internet-based system called LaundryView, that provides a way for college students to communicate with washers and dryers in campus laundry rooms.

When LaundryView is installed on a college campus, washers and dryers are connected to the Internet. The availability and current status of each machine is displayed on a web page that students can access through any device equipped with a web browser and Internet connection. In addition to showing the current status of all washers and dryers, the website also displays a graphical two-week history of equipment usage so students can see, and avoid, peak usage times.

Through the LaundryView web page, students can arrange to be notified when a washer or dryer is available, or when their own washing or drying cycle is complete. They can specify how they want to be notified, either by e-mail, mobile phone message, or wireless PDA message.

In addition to keeping students connected to their laundry room, LaundryView also keeps Mac-Gray informed if there is a problem with one of its machines. Should a malfunction occur, the machine automatically notifies the local branch office and within minutes a service order is delivered to the appropriate service technician.