Lock with Integrated Engagement Indicator

Abstract

A lock with an integrated visual indicator of its engagement is provided. Such lock comprises a resiliently extensible pin and an engagement means on a first plate and a means for securing the pin on a second plate. When an external force is applied to the engagement means, the pin and the means for securing the pin may engage one another and, as a result, secure the first and second plate to one another. The lock may be disposed on a container to prevent physical access to certain objects when engaged in this manner. The visual indicator may be provided to ensure compliance with any requirement that the lock be engaged to secure the first and second plate. A tampering indicator may also be disposed between the plates to visually confirm whether the lock has been tampered with when the plates are secured to one another.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.