Patent ID: 8944162
Filing Date: 2015-02-03
Classification: E21B,G01V

Abstract:
1. An apparatus comprising: a neutron radiation source to output neutron radiation after power is supplied; a power source to supply the power; and an ambient-activated optical switch electrically coupled between the neutron radiation source and the power source, the ambient-activated optical switch being configured to switch to a decoupling condition while ambient light at the ambient-activated optical switch is at an ambient level for a surface of the Earth, the neutron radiation source being electrically decoupled from the power source while the ambient-activated optical switch is in the decoupling condition, the ambient-activated optical switch being configured to switch to a coupling condition while the ambient light at the ambient-activated optical switch is at or below a threshold level, wherein the ambient-activated optical switch is configured to electrically couple the power source to the neutron radiation source while in the coupling condition.