Interactive tamper-resistant lock, light, and associated methods

A combination lock comprising:

• a base having a locking aperture adjacent a top end, and a bottom end;
• a locking mechanism positioned within the base in communication with the locking aperture;
• a locking ring having a first end pivotally affixed to the base and a second end lockably insertable into the locking aperture, the locking ring movable between a locked position wherein the second end is engaged with the locking mechanism and an unlocked position wherein the second end is not engaged with the locking mechanism;
• means positioned within the base for disengaging the locking mechanism;
• combination entry means positioned on the base operable upon the disengaging means and adapted to transmit a signal indicative of a user-entered combination;
• comparator means positioned within the base adapted to receive the signal from the combination entry means, for comparing the received signal with a predetermined correct combination, and for transmitting a match signal indicative of one of a correct and an incorrect combination having been entered;
• and
• at least one signal issuing means affixed to the base, the signal issuing means selected from a group consisting of a visual signal issuing means, a tactile signal issuing means, and an audible signal issuing means, the signal issuing means adapted to receive the match signal and to issue a user-perceptible signal differentially commensurate therewith.