SHEET STRIPPING APPARATUS AND METHOD

A sheet stripping apparatus and method used in a photocopying machine employ a resiliently biased sheet stripping element in contact with the photosensitive surface of the copier for detaching a leading edge of a copy sheet as it moves toward the sheet stripping assembly. A moving deflection surface, such as a knurled roller, is positioned immediately adjacent the operative portion of the sheet stripping element for deflecting the detached leading edge of the copy sheet away from the sheet stripping element and toward an exit path. A friction roller in juxtaposition to the deflection surface provides a nip for grabbing the copy sheet and directing it along the exit path. The friction roller is preferably driven at a velocity greater than the velocity of the photosensitive surface.