Devices and methods for transferring an object

A transfer device comprising:

• an extendable transfer platform comprising:
• a fixed plate having a first end, a second end, and a leading edge extending between the first end and the second end,
• a moveable plate positioned below the fixed plate and having a first end, a second end, and a leading edge extending between the first end and the second end,
• at least one platform actuator configured to selectively move the moveable plate relative to the fixed plate between a retracted position in which the fixed plate overlies a majority of the moveable plate, and an extended position in which the leading edge of the moveable plate is located distally from the leading edge of the fixed plate,
• a transfer belt having a first end secured to a first driven roller, a second end secured to a second driven roller, the transfer belt extending from the first driven roller, above an upper surface of the fixed plate, around the leading edge of the moveable plate, and to the second driven roller, wherein the transfer belt overlies the fixed plate and the moveable plate in both the retracted and extended positions;
• a platform support structure secured to the extendable transfer platform for supporting the extendable transfer platform above a floor surface, the platform support structure comprising:
• at least one support actuator configured to selectively move the transfer platform relative to the floor surface between a lowered position in which at least the leading edge of the moveable plate is proximate the floor surface, and a raised position;
• and
• a transfer device controller operably coupled to the first driven roller, the second driven roller, and the at least one platform actuator.