Abstract: An apparatus loads and unloads workpieces. The apparatus includes at least one essentially horizontally movable element, at least one essentially vertically movable element and at least one element for receiving workpieces. The horizontally movable element has at least one drive unit and has at least two belts communicating with the one or more drive units and the one or more elements for receiving the workpieces.

Abstract: A transfer arrangement includes a transfer unit constructed as a three-axle transfer unit. For two parallel, spaced gripper rails which are to be moved synchronously, stationarily disposed driving units are provided for the respective transport direction, the transverse direction and the stroke direction. The transverse driving unit acts by way of coupling devices upon the gripper rails to establish a driving connection between the transverse driving unit and the gripper rails only when these must be laterally adjusted. Otherwise, the transverse driving unit is separated from the gripper rails. Thereby, the masses, which are to be moved up and down with the gripper rails and the resulting acceleration forces are considerably reduced and shortened timing periods are permitted. The transverse driving unit 40 can be arranged below a plane defined by the gripper rails.