US Patent 7694542 Tool operated combination lock

Disclosed is a system for locking and unlocking a component, where the system comprises a lock adapted to lock a component, the lock capable of being opened by manipulation of a combination mechanism, the lock having a communication apparatus for communicating information related to the opening of the lock with a tool. The system further comprises a tool matable with the lock and adapted to open the lock by manipulation of the combination mechanism, the tool adapted to receive the communicated information related to the opening of the lock from the communication apparatus. Also disclosed are locks and tools suitable for use in such a system, and methods of opening at least one combination lock with a tool.