Handling tool for radioactive sources of logging while drilling devices

A method for securely handling a radioactive source, comprising:

• pushing a closed chamber of a handling tool into a source pocket, thereby opening the chamber;
• remotely controlling a movement of a gripping device from inside the chamber to inside the source pocket;
• gripping a radioactive source located inside the source pocket using the gripping device;
• remotely controlling the movement of the gripping device from the inside of the source pocket to the inside of the chamber, thereby retrieving the radioactive source from the source pocket;
• withdrawing the open chamber away from the source pocket, thereby closing the chamber;
• and
• releasing a retaining mechanism inside of the source pocket by the movement of the gripping device inside the source pocket.

A handling tool for securely handling a radioactive source, the handling tool comprising a gripping device to grip and release a radioactive source, a first securing device and a second securing device, wherein the first securing device comprises:

• a chamber adapted to contain the radioactive source;
• an flapper mechanism for opening or closing the chamber based on movement of the chamber, wherein the flapper mechanism opening the chamber when the chamber is brought in proximity with a source pocket that may contain a radioactive source, and the flapper mechanism closing the chamber when the chamber is withdrawn from the source pocket;
• wherein the second securing device comprises:
• said gripping device to grip and release a radioactive source;
• a positioning mechanism to position the gripping device in the source pocket or inside the chamber of the first securing device;
• and
• a retainer mechanism actuator to cooperate with e a retainer mechanism of the source pocket, the retainer mechanism configured to release the radioactive source from the source pocket when activated by the retainer mechanism actuator.