Telescoping-Tube System For Crew Transfer

摘要

A system and method for transferring crew members between a first platform and a second platform, at least one of which platforms is subject to movement, is disclosed. The system includes a telescoping-tube assembly having at least three nestable tubes. The tubes are capable of being extended and retracted as well as being selectively locked to ensure that a crew member traversing the tube assembly always travels along a rigid connection between adjacent tubes. A sensor system is used to sense the location and direction of movement of a crew member within the tubes.