Patent ID: 7999656

Claim:
An electronic lock box system, comprising: an electronic lock box apparatus having a control circuit, a first memory circuit, an identifier sensing device, a secure compartment with an access element, a shackle for attachment to a fixed object, and a keypad for use by a user to enter authentication data for operating said access element of the secure compartment, wherein said control circuit is configured to exchange data signals with said identifier sensing device; and a security apparatus having an identification member with a second memory circuit, and an attachment member with a key initially attached thereto; wherein: (a) said identifier sensing device detects a presence of the identification member of said security apparatus, if said security apparatus is positioned within said secure compartment; (b) said identifier sensing device detects an absence of the identification member of said security apparatus, if said security apparatus is not positioned within said secure compartment; and (c) said control circuit is configured: (i) to determine whether or not identification data that is entered on said keypad, by said user, is correct; (ii) if so, then to read a first data value that is stored in said second memory circuit, and to command said access element to open, thereby allowing said user to obtain physical use of said security apparatus; (iii) if said identifier sensing device determines that said key has been detached from said security apparatus, then to automatically alter said first data value to a different value, thereby generating a second data value, and to automatically store said second data value in said second memory of said security apparatus; (iv) to detect, by use of said identifier sensing device, after said secure compartment has been opened, then later closed, a presence of said security apparatus and to read said second data value; and (v) to determine if said second data value is equal to said first data value, and if not, to store that status into an event log that is stored in said first memory circuit.