Universal variable pitch interface interconnecting fixed pitch sheet processing machines

Abstract

In accordance with one aspect of the present exemplary embodiment, a universal interface is provided for operatively connecting and feeding sequential copy sheet output of various selectable first sheet processing machines to various selectable second sheet processing machines spaced apart horizontally or horizontally and vertically from the first sheet processing machines by widely varying ranges of horizontal distances. The universal interface includes a frame and a universal interface module providing a sheet feeding path repositionable relative to the frame therethrough, from one side to the other of the module, for transporting the copy sheet output of the first sheet processing machine to the copy sheet input of the second sheet processing machine. Further, the universal interface module includes an integral horizontally or horizontally and vertically repositionable sheet receiving and sheet discharging sheet path ends opening at opposite sides of the universal interface module. At least one of the sheet receiving path end and the sheet discharging sheet path end are independently positionable relative to the other of the sheet receiving and sheet discharging sheet path ends over a horizontal range. In a further form, the universal interface module is bidirectional for a bidirectional paper path. Interdigitated sheet guides are provided for defining the sheet path in the bidirectional modules.