Abstract

A sorting apparatus for use with a processor for media sheets. The processor has a top discharge and a service opening adjoining the discharge. The sorting apparatus has a body mounted on the processing apparatus. The body pivots about an axis of rotation, between closed and open positions. In the closed position, the body blocks access to the service opening. In the open position, the body is displaced from the service opening. The body has an upper surface substantially radial to the axis of rotation. A partition member is mounted on the body. The partition member has a unitary array of parallel partitions extending outward from the body. The partitions define bins for the media sheets. The partition member is movable independent of the body, between an operative position, in which the partitions define a zone of obstruction extending outward from the upper surface of the body; and a displaced position, in which the partitions are at least substantially removed from the zone. A sorter mechanism is disposed substantially within the body. The sorter mechanism has sheet guides that define primary and secondary passages. The primary passage has an entrance aligned with the discharge. The secondary passages each branch individually from the primary passage. The secondary passages each having an exit adjoining a respective bin. The sorter mechanism has a transport system for propelling the media sheets along the primary passage to selected bins. A sorting and processing apparatus includes a processor and the sorting apparatus.