6503 Building IQ Issue 5.indd - Clipsal

IQThe ResultWith a philosophy of creating inspiring,convenient and flexible surroundings formembers, the C-Bus/HomeMinder systemhas provided an ideal management solutionfor Fitness First.Incorporating integrated lighting, airconditioning and security systems, eachinstallation follows detailed performancespecifications, with schedules customised to suitthe individual routine of each Fitness First facility.For energy efficiency purposes a combinationof full and half lighting scenarios have beenprogrammed. Each morning on entry to thesite and disarming of the security system, thesite goes into half lighting mode, providingsufficient lighting for staff to move around priorto opening and for cleaning to be carried out.When the site is ready for the public, a singlegang key input located at the front receptiondesk will activate operational mode includingfull lights, exercise equipment, televisionsand air conditioning. Half lighting in changerooms and studios will remain on until activatedby movement sensors, while illumination instair, toilet and shower areas remains on fulllighting at all times the site is occupied. Duringoperating hours, the only way of shutting downthe system is by arming the security system.However after the programmed operatinghours, the reception desk key input will returnthe site to half lighting mode.One of the unique features of the gym is theirvirtual cycle studio. Painted black, floor toceiling, the walls depict a cityscape that can beilluminated to represent a daytime, evening ornight scene. In the night scene, the cityscapeimages glow under special UV fluorescentlights creating a dramatic night-timeambience. A key input unit at the instructorspodium activates the different scenes, withMinder programming ensuring the instructor'spodium lights remain on at all times duringoperating hours for safety purposes. Forenergy efficiency, each cycle and exercisestudio also houses a movement sensor, whichis programmed to shutdown lighting and airconditioning when the area is not in use.As an emergency backup, the provision hasalso been made available for a secured keyinput to monitor the state of the security system.Should the low level security system interfacefail, this key input has the capacity to activatethe arm/disarm state for HomeMinder.The BenefitsOfficially opened in June 2003, thecustomised C-Bus solution has allowedFitness First complete control over theoperations of the site, with the added bonusof significant maintenance and powerconsumption savings.In Melbourne, Clipsal Systems Integrator,Watters Electrical, has been responsible forall the Fitness First C-Bus installations. Basedon the same performance specifications,C-Bus and HomeMinder technologies havecontinued to provide improved energyefficiency, convenience, security and lightingcontrol for Victorian Fitness First facilities.Requiring limited staff involvement, the timeefficientnature of the technology, particularlythe one-touch power up and shutdown modes,have provided a convenient and comfortableworking environment, enabling staff to focusmore of their time on the needs of clients.Fitness First Australia were so impressed withthe outcome, that during a recent visit frominternational project managers, a presentationexplaining the operational benefits of C-Buswas conducted and it is now likely thetechnology will be implemented in otherFitness First facilities around the world.Photography: Mike Chorley Photography9