Transfer line

In a transfer line of the type having at least one work station for machining workpieces, which can be moved onward rhythmically by a timed drive having a transporting device, and with a substantially U-shaped return line connected at its respective ends to two transfer stations, upon which line workpieces, clamped on a workpiece-carrier, can be slidingly conveyed along a slideway by said transporting device, at least one endless chain on said return line having a pulling length extending along said slideway, entrainment means for coupling the individual workpiece-carriers to the chain at a first point and at a second point, means at the second point permitting relative movement between the chain and carrier, and a transferring mechanism at each transfer station for automatically coupling or uncoupling the chain and carrier.