Carrier device, transfer method and carrier hand

A transfer method for supplying a plurality of works arranged at even intervals and at least two different lengths relative to a common horizontal plane defined by a carrier device to a supply portion, the method comprising the steps of:

• holding each of the plurality of works by at least two engaging parts provided to each of a plurality of retaining portions disposed above the plurality of works;
• transferring the plurality of works to the supply portion;
• setting first works that are one type among the plurality of works arranged at the at least two different lengths and held in the at least two engaging parts, respectively, at a first predetermined interval, by driving a plurality of sliding portions to cause the plurality of retaining portions to approach each other or separate from each other in an arrangement direction of the plurality of works;
• supplying the first works to the supply portion;
• setting second works that are another type among the plurality of works arranged at the at least two different lengths and held in the at least two engaging parts, respectively, at a second predetermined interval, by driving the sliding portions to cause the plurality of retaining portions to approach each other or separate from each other;
• and
• supplying the second works to the supply portion.