Modular switch device for temporarily storing workpiece carriers for a linear conveyor system

A modular switch device temporarily stores workpiece carriers for a linear conveyor system. The modular switch device is arrangeable between a changeover region, comprising a depositing and/or removal region, and a processing region of the linear conveyor system that conveys workpiece carriers at a conveyance level. The modular switch device includes a first and second horizontally arranged carrier unit. The carrier units are disposed vertically one above the other at a fixed distance. Each carrier unit has a respective guide apparatus, by which respective ones of the workpiece carriers are conveyable in a conveyance direction in interaction with a conveyor belt. The carrier units are movable together in a vertical direction by a lifting device in such a way that both guide apparatuses are positionable such that the respective workpiece carriers are conveyable at the conveyance level by the respective guide apparatuses.