Patent ID: 11941600
Assignee: WALGREEN CO.
Field: IT methods for management (Electrical engineering)
Classification: CPC G | IPC G

Claim 10:
11. A method for identifying a customer at a store, the method comprising:
(A) implementing a customer detection apparatus at a store, wherein the store includes at least: (i) a first area for picking up ordered items within the store, and (ii) a second area distinct from the first area and including an entrance of the store;
(B) detecting, via the customer detection apparatus, a mobile electronic device that is located at the second area, by wirelessly transmitting a first signal conforming to a first protocol to cause the mobile electronic device to respond to receiving the first signal by wirelessly broadcasting, a second signal conforming to a second protocol that is different from the first protocol, wherein the second signal carries identification information uniquely associated with a customer who has placed an order for an item but who has not yet picked up the item;
(C) responding to receiving the identification information by transmitting, to a computing device located at the first area of the store, a message to cause the computing device to provide, via an output device of the computing device, an audible or visual notification to obtain the item for pick-up by the customer.