Abstract: A method and device for unstacking a stack of trays, each tray having pockets and edge portions. A holder frame above the stack has suction heads which engage the eggs of the uppermost tray of the stack. A carrier unit above the holder frame has oppositely opposed grippers which engage sides of the uppermost tray. The holder frame is connected to the carrier unit by one or more spacer rods which are freely moveable in a channel in the carrier unit so as to permit three degrees of movement relative thereto. The carrier unit may also be moveably suspended in a second carrier unit above it. Support rods may extend downwardly from the carrier unit to engage the tray.

Abstract: This invention relates to gripper head for unstacking a stack of trays, each tray provided with a relief of pockets with edge portions and loaded with eggs, the gripper head provided with a holder frame,—having included therein a matrix of suction heads connected with an air suction system, the suction heads, during pickup, transfer and deposition of one tray, being placed on the eggs and engaging them with suction,—having connected therewith at least two oppositely arranged grippers for engaging, simultaneously with the eggs, the tray at corresponding sides during pickup, transfer and deposition of the tray, and—having at least a mast piece which extends perpendicularly with respect to the matrix and is connected with at least an arm for displacing the gripper head between a pickup location and a delivery location, wherein the gripper head furthermore comprises a carrier unit which is connected through at least one spacer with the holder frame in a carrying manner, movably in at least three degrees of freedo