Abstract: While measuring analytes in an object, movements between the object and a device that is taking the measurement may adversely effect the accuracy of the measurements. A probe that engages an object includes a sticky surface that comes into contact with the object to alleviate the relative movement between the probe and the object. The sticky substance can be applied in a variety of manners and embodiments and in general, helps to reduce the relative movement. In addition, the probe may include the ability to apply pressure to the object. The pressure can range from a slight pressure to help reduce relative movement to a pressure that exceeds systolic pressure, thereby constricting the flow of blood through the object.

Abstract: An optical measurement device is presented. The device is attachable to the patient's body and adapted for performing non-invasive measurements of blood-related signals. The device comprises a measurement unit for applying optical measurements to a first region on the patient's extreme organ, and an occlusion assembly for applying over-systolic pressure to a second region on the patient's body located upstream of the first location with respect to a normal blood flow direction. A substantially flexible, heating element is provided within the measurement unit, and is accommodated so as to engage at least a part of the first region for heating it to a desired temperature.

Abstract: A finger holder for attaching to the patient's finger and an optical measurement device utilizing the finger holder for performing non-invasive measurements of blood-related signals are presented. The finger holder comprises a measuring unit located at a first location of the finger and a pressurizing assembly capable of applying desired over-systolic pressure to a second location on the patient's finger upstream of the first location with respect to a normal blood flow direction. The measuring unit is supported on a clip member that secures the fingertip between the clip's legs. A substantially rigid connector connects the clip member and the pressurizing assembly, wherein the connector engages the finger along its middle phalanx and proximal intephalangeal joint, thereby preventing it from folding during the measurements.

Abstract: A vacuum holder for holding articles by suction includes a vacuum chamber divided into a plurality of interconnected sub-chambers each communicating via a control a passageway with a plurality of suction openings extending through an outer holding surface, and a valve member for each control passageway integrally formed with a mounting section mounted to the housing, and an elastic juncture section normally biassing the valve member to open its respective control passageway to permit the application of suction to its plurality of suction openings. Each valve member is displaceable by the suction force applied from its respective vacuum sub-chamber, when its plurality of suction openings are not covered by the article to be held by the holder, to thereby close the control passageway to its respective suction openings.