| 摘要 |
<p>Apparatus for detecting failure of a protective barrier between a first object and a second object is provided, said apparatus comprising a transmitter assembly for transmitting an alternating electrical signal through the first object and a receiver assembly, wherein the receiver assembly is configured to receive said alternating electrical signal through the second object upon breach of the protective barrier. In a preferred embodiment, the first object is a patient (2) undergoing surgery and/or medical treatment, the second object is a healthcare worker (3) such as a surgeon and the protective barrier is a glove (5) such as a surgical glove. The transmitter and/or receiver assemblies (1, 4) typically comprise transmitter or receiver electronics and signal connection means, and optionally, the electronics and connection means can together form integral transmitter and/or receiver assemblies. A return path can be provided for the transmitted signal. The apparatus could also be used to monitor the integrity of other barriers, e.g. separating one fluid from another—e.g. a diaphragm in a control valve, or diaphragm pump; another application is manual handling of a bottle or other article containing a hazardous fluid.</p> |
