Abstract: A sheet of paper, upon which characters have been printed by a printhead, is stacked at a collection station using a mechanism that conveys the sheet to a position above a stack of previously printed sheets, while supporting the sheet so that it does not contact the top sheet in the stack as it is conveyed. When the sheet is directly above the stack, the sheet is dropped vertically downwardly in a manner such that there is very little, if any, sliding between the sheet that is dropped and the top sheet in the stack. The possibility of smearing undried ink on the top sheet of the stack is thereby minimized. The active paper drop mechanism preferably includes a pair of pivotally mounted arms that gradually pivot under the sheet as it is conveyed, to support the sheet, and then rapidly swing out of the way so that the sheet falls downwardly.

Abstract: Improved backhoe bucket transport apparatus including an engagement member secured to a loader bucket and having an open hook for engaging and suspending the backhoe bucket by its pivot pin. Normal rolling motion of the loader bucket causes it to receive the backhoe where it may be securely held during transport. Unloading is carried out by reversing the steps.