Abstract: A fiberoptic based sensor for patient care use. The sensor includes a catheter placed transcutaneously into a blood vessel which is connected to an external measuring head. A sensing tip of the catheter includes a pressure sensing element and an oxygen saturation measuring element. Features of the invention include novel tip designs, measuring head features, and approaches for enhancing measurement though correlation of the saturation and pressure readings.

Abstract: A mechanism for withdrawing magnetic recording tape from a tape carrier (e.g. a cartridge) is disclosed. A boom member supports at least two levers. In the at rest (unengaged) position, rollers, supported by the levers, are positioned in a recess in the tape cartridge and are positioned interior of the tape. When activated, the boom member pivots about its pivot point, thus moving the levers attached to it. The levers move generally away from the cartridge and the rollers attached to the levers engage the tape and pull tape out of the cartridge. The roller supporting ends of the levers engage a lever guide member in such a fashion that the at least two levers move apart. In this manner, a suitable transducer mounted adjacent the lever guide member, can have tape wrapped around itself (less than 360.degree.) for subsequent recording on or playback from the tape.