Abstract: An improved apron and apron drive mechanism for object or patient transferring apparatus of the type in which different phases of transfer operation are effected by selective linear travel in a transfer apron. The transfer apron to carry out the transfer operation in conjunction with a translatable separator plate is formed from a finite length of flexible belt material, the opposite ends of which are attached to winding rollers operated to pay out, take in or hold stationary apron flight portions in direct synchronism with a common drive shaft for translating the separator.