Importance

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Abstract

A paper guide and stacking apparatus for fan fold or Z-fold paper and useful with a printer of the type having an output paper collection tray or bin positioned a predetermined vertical distance from an exit port and sound shroud connected to the printer. This novel apparatus is characterized by the use of a pair of flexible front straps which are positioned on one side of a vertical paper path extending from the printer exit port and sound shroud to the paper collection tray, and also by the use of a single flexible back strap which is positioned on the other side of the paper path and centered between the two front straps. These straps make physical contact with each side of the moving paper in such a manner as to force each successive sheet of fan fold paper alternately toward opposite sides of the output paper tray. Advantageously, the upper ends of the plastic straps may be secured by magnets to the walls of sound shroud or printer housing, and these straps are preferably made of a thin plastic material having a certain degree of stiffness sufficient to gently force each successive sheet at an angled direction into opposite sides of the output paper collection tray. This force may be varied by slightly changing the length of the plastic straps and thereby slightly modifying the inwardly convex contours of each of the front and back straps. The vertical centering of the back strap with respect to the two front straps prevents the guided sheets from twisting in the moving paper path, thereby further enhancing the uniformity of paper stacking.

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First Claim