Abstract: Objects are received between first and second cutting elements of a cutter, which is suspended via the first cutting element from a rod-like object to be cut. The first cutting element, which preferably is formed as a cutter suspension including a cutting blade, is moved into the rod-like object toward the second element, until that object has been cut. The cutter preferably is mounted on an elongate handle, and rotary motion of such handle is translated into movement of the cutting elements toward each other. A quick release mechanism permits quick release action of the second element and an elongate member permits holding of the first cutting element onto the object, while the second element is pushed with the elongate handle toward the object.

Abstract: Methods of a human operator processing first and second interrelated documents in pairs relative to a processing station provide a first document entry station for receiving a first document from the human operator, and a second document entry station for receiving a second document from the human operator. The human operator separates the interrelated first and second documents from each other and deposits the first document in the first document entry station while depositing the second document in the second document entry station. The deposited first document is transported from the first document entry station relative to the processing station, and the second document is transferred from the second to the first document entry station, for subsequent transport from such first station relative to the processing station.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for stacking sheets of various intermixed lengths in a stacking location employ distinct first and second sheet drive rollers at a sheet feed path adjacent said stacking location. The first sheet drive rollers are rotated in a first sense of rotation for driving each sheet along the sheet feed path in a first direction. The second sheet drive rollers are for each of the sheets maintained out of the sheet feed path while the particular sheet is driven with the first sheet drive roller means in the first direction past a stacking position at the stacking location. The second sheet drive rollers are rotated in a second sense of rotation for driving each sheet in a second direction opposed to said first direction. The second sheet drive rollers are for each sheet driven past the stacking location introduced into the sheet feed path for driving the particular sheet in said second direction into the stacking location.

Abstract: Service access to a transport channel is facilitated by providing a corner for receiving a margin or seam of a wall of the transport channel. A bias is exerted on the margin for pushing such margin into the corner and releasably biasing the wall into a position in which it laterally contains the transport channel. The bias is such as to permit manual tilting of the wall away from the transport channel for service access. After termination of such tilting, the bias restores the wall to its normal position at the transport channel.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for transporting a sheet first toward and then along a registration edge provide a support for the sheet having a sheet support surface adjacent the registration edge and a first drive wheel rotatable about a first axis for driving the sheet on the support surface. A second drive wheel rotatable about a second axis extending at right angles to the support surface is provided at the first drive wheel. Such first wheel is initially positioned at an angle to the registration edge and is rotated with the second wheel through a third wheel about the first axis, with the sheet being brought into peripheral engagement with the first drive wheel to transport the sheet on its support surface to the registration edge. The third wheel with the first wheel is then swiveled about the second axis and about the second wheel, toward parallel relationship with the registration edge.