Abstract: A valve actuator includes an actuator housing, a piston, a linkage assembly, a magnet, and a Hall sensor. The actuator housing is adapted to receive pressurized fluid. The piston is movably mounted within actuator housing, and is configured to translate in a first direction and a second direction. The linkage assembly is rotationally coupled to the piston and is adapted to couple to a valve element. The linkage assembly is configured to rotate the valve element in a first rotational direction and a second rotational direction in response to piston movement in the first direction and the second direction, respectively. The magnet is mounted on the piston and is movable therewith, and the Hall sensor is mounted on the actuator housing and is responsive to movement of the magnet to supply a position signal.

Abstract: Integrated tools for noninvasively reading and adjusting an implantable, magnetically adjustable valve, and methods of use are disclosed. The tools include magnetic or electronic reading of the valve, and magnetic or electromagnetic adjustment of the valve. In use, the tools are positioned above or in contact with the patient's skin, in proximity to the valve.

Abstract: In a water flow detection device in which signals are output in response to movement of a detection rod that rotates in conjunction with the opening of a valve body, a pin that supports the detection rod is capable of being provided so as to be constantly parallel to a valve shaft of the valve body, and a water flow is capable of being accurately detected by the rotation of the detection rod while the detection rod contacts the valve body without being inclined, the detection rod rotating in response to opening and closing of the valve body. Accordingly, the water flow detection device includes a retainer and an extended block as holding members that hold the pin of the detection rod such that the pin is parallel to the valve shaft of the valve body, the retainer having a bearing for the pin, and the extended block holding the retainer to fix the retainer to the main body with a bolt.

Abstract: An actuator base, bobbin, and pole piece form a pocket for an armature that a flexible membrane encloses to form an armature chamber filled with an incompressible fluid. The membrane protects the armature from exposure to corrosive fluids flowing in a conduit. Conduit flow can be stopped by driving the membrane against a valve seat. Pressure from the controlled fluid in the conduit is transmitted through the membrane to the fluid within the armature chamber so that the armature does not need to counteract force applied to the membrane by the conduit fluid's pressure.

Abstract: A fluid flow control system includes a fluid inlet, a central chamber, a first nozzle extending from a first side of the central chamber and comprising a first throat, a second nozzle extending from a second side of the central chamber opposite the first side and comprising a second throat, and a flow control shuttle. The flow control shuttle includes a first needle having a first tapered portion positioned within the first throat for controlling flow through the first nozzle and a second needle having a second tapered portion positioned within the second throat for controlling flow through the second nozzle.

Abstract: A rotational moving point of a connection between a rod and a valve swings between a full open point, at which the valve is fully opened, and a full close point, at which the valve is fully closed. An apex of this swing is set at a point, which is between the full close point and a half point and satisfies a relationship of ?P>?A where ?P denotes an angle that is defined between a first imaginary line, which connects between a bearing center of a rod bearing and the full open point, and a second imaginary line, which connects between the bearing center and the apex of the swing, and ?A denotes an angle that is defined between the first imaginary line and a third imaginary line, which connects between the bearing center and the full close point.

Abstract: A hydraulic valve device includes a sensor for determining spool displacement of within the valve. The sensor includes two main subassemblies, a tube assembly and a body assembly; the tube assembly being mounted onto the valve body by the thread so that the tube together with the valve creates a closed space where oil flows; the plunger with the magnet inside, is kept in contact with the valve spool by the spring so that the magnet moves along with the spool, so does also the magnetic field created by the magnet. An integrated circuit on the printed circuit board senses the angle of magnetic field lines and generates an output signal proportional to the movement of the spool.

Abstract: A magnetic sensing surface of a stroke sensor is placed in an angular range between a first imaginary line and a second imaginary line. The first imaginary line is an imaginary line that coincides with a center line between first and second magnets of a magnetic movable body when a wastegate valve is placed to have a full close degree of the wastegate valve. The second imaginary line is an imaginary line that coincides with the center line between the first and second magnets when the wastegate valve is placed to have a half degree between the full close degree and a full open degree of the wastegate valve.

Abstract: According to aspects described herein, there is disclosed a method of and system for indicating a fault associated with a fluid valve moveable between an open and a closed operative position. The method and system compare a valve state indicator to a valve last command, wherein the valve state indicator represents a detected operative position of the valve and the valve last command being an operative command sent to the fluid valve. The method and system also initiate a fault indication after a predetermined time delay relative to the valve last command being sent and when the valve state indicator does not match the valve last command. After the time delay a fault indication can be initiated immediately upon receipt of a different valve state indicator.

Abstract: A movable member position-sensing device includes a sensor and a biasing member in operable communication with both the sensor and a movable member such that it can generate a bias to both the sensor and the movable member and configured to communicate a parameter to the sensor indicative of a position of the movable member.

Abstract: An exemplary position regulator is disclosed which includes a regulation unit and a travel measurement system for activating an actuating drive for adjusting a control fitting to a predetermined position. A signal shaper is provided for outputting a travel signal to a superordinate device. To provide an undisturbed output of the travel signal, the signal shaper is connected in series in a transmission path between the travel measurement system and the regulation unit, and is connected in parallel with the regulation unit so as to transmit signals. The signal shaper can have a switch which is controlled by an alarm signal of the regulation unit, by which, in a first (e.g., inoperative) position, the travel measurement system is fed from the regulation unit, and, in a second (e.g., operative) position, the travel measurement system is fed from the signal shaper.

Abstract: A compressed air throttle apparatus has at least one throttle valve adjusted by an electric motor, and an electric circuit fitted with contacting elements to alternatively interrupt and close the electric circuit in relation to the throttle valve settings. This throttle apparatus preferably is applicable to a compressed air path of powder spraycoating equipment.

Abstract: The present invention utilizes operation of a valve actuator to generate electrical power. A portion of the mechanical energy generated by operation of a valve actuator is converted to electrical energy. The mechanical energy may be converted to electrical energy at the same time as the valve actuator is operating or the mechanical energy may be stored for later conversion. A valve actuator may be operated manually, electrically, pneumatically, or hydraulically. Generated electrical energy may also be stored.

Abstract: A system for indicating the status of a valve may include an encapsulation with electronic circuitry disposed at least partially therein, a communication sub-system, a sensor, an indicator and a power source. The encapsulation may be zero volume, and the indicator may include a color changing skin. A method of indicating the status of a valve may include providing a valve, providing a status indicating system, changing a status of the valve, sensing a status of the valve, and indicating a status of the valve. A method of encapsulating a status indicating system may include providing an encapsulant and coupling at least a portion of the system with the encapsulant.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a valve control device (1) having a housing (2) which has a vacuum chamber (3) and an atmospheric pressure chamber (4) which are separated from one another in a gas-tight manner by a spring-loaded diaphragm (5); having a diaphragm plate (8) arranged on the diaphragm (5); and having a regulating rod (6) which, in the region of a regulating rod head (6A), is operatively connected to the diaphragm (5), wherein the diaphragm plate (8) is formed as a plastic injection-molded part.

Abstract: A double-disc gate valve is provided, the shut-off or valve discs of which are displaceable from an open position into a closed position and vice versa by means of an actuator rod, there being associated with the actuator rod a locking device by means of which the valve discs, together with the actuator rod, are fixable in the closed position. The locking device is movable in the longitudinal direction of the actuator rod relative thereto from an unlocking position into a locking position and vice versa, the locking position being variable in dependence upon the closed position of the valve with predetermined maximum pressing force of the valve discs against the associated valve housing sealing seats.

Abstract: Integrated tools for noninvasively reading and adjusting an implantable, magnetically adjustable valve, and methods of use are disclosed. The tools include magnetic or electronic reading of the valve, and magnetic or electromagnetic adjustment of the valve. In use, the tools are positioned above or in contact with the patient's skin, in proximity to the valve.

Abstract: A distribution valve monitor to monitor the operation of a distribution valve of the type having an inlet and a plurality of outlets, which couples the outlets to the inlet according to a desired fluid distribution pattern comprises a plurality of non-contact sensors disposed at spaced locations about the distribution valve to sense activation of the valve to different operating conditions. A controller communicates with the sensors and records data representing the operation of the valve. The recorded data is examined to detect improper operation of the distribution valve.

Abstract: Disclosed is an automatic pressure reducing valve. A body includes a hollow portion, an inlet portion and an outlet portion for flow of a fluid and has an internal space. A cylinder is installed inside the hollow portion and has at least two holes formed in its wall. An piston is movable along the inner side of the cylinder and adjusts opening rate of the holes according to a fluid pressure difference between an inlet portion and an outlet portion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a valve. The valve includes a valve element having a metering opening, a valve gate which is movable in translation for the opening and closing of the metering opening, an actuating actuator configured for the execution of a tilting movement, and a lever arm which is coupled to the actuating actuator and which converts the tilting movement of the actuating actuator for the opening and closing of the metering opening into a translatory stroke movement of the valve gate.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus to determine a position of a valve are disclosed. An example apparatus disclosed herein includes a rotary valve assembly and a visual indicator assembly coupled to the rotary valve assembly to indicate a position of a fluid control member of the rotary valve assembly. The visual indicator assembly includes a follower and a shell surrounding the follower. A position of the follower is to correspond to the position of the fluid control member. The example apparatus further includes an electronic position monitor coupled to the shell to determine valve position information based on the position of the follower.

Abstract: A method of operating a control valve assembly for a hydraulic system includes detecting the current operation of a first position sensor and a second position sensor to determine if at least one of the first position sensor and the second position sensor is inoperable. A pressure of the fluid at a first work port and a second work port is measured, and one of a first valve and a second valve is actuated when one of the first position sensor and the second position sensor is determined to be inoperable. The first valve is actuated based upon the fluid pressure measured at the second work port to adjust the flow of the fluid through the first work port. The second valve is actuated based upon the fluid pressure measured at the first work port to adjust the flow of the fluid through the second work port.

Abstract: A portable automated vent cover includes a drive system, a telescoping tube, a vent cover plate and a collapsible mobile tripod. The drive system preferably includes a drive motor, a gear box, an up-relay and a down-relay. The telescoping tube includes an outer support tube, an inner cover tube and a rack gear. The rack gear is attached to the inner cover tube. The vent cover plate is secured to a top of the inner cover tube. The drive motor drives a pinion gear through the gear box. The gear box is retained on the outer support tube. An up-down switch is used to raise and lower the vent cover plate. Electrical power is controlled by either the up-down switch or a controller and sent to the drive motor through either the up-relay or the down-relay. The collapsible mobile tripod is attached to a bottom of the outer support tube.

Abstract: A motorized valve has a housing having an inlet and an outlet to be connected to a pipeline, a saddle connected with the housing, a turn plug having a rod, the turn plug cooperating with the saddle, and a drive for turning the valve body and formed as a piezoelectric drive, the piezoelectric drive including a piezoelectric generator of radially directed standing acoustic waves, which is connected with the housing and is connectable with a pulse current source, and a rotor operatively connected with the piezoelectric generator and kinematically connected with the rod of the turn plug so as to turn the turn plug when the rotor is actuated by the piezoelectric generator.

Abstract: Valve systems include a valve and a valve actuator assembly for operating the valve. The valve actuator assembly includes a controller that uses stored information and signals from a sensor to open and close the valve. The controller can manipulate, analyze, evaluate, store, and communicate information related to the history of the valve, performance of the valve, valve settings, and the like. The controller can send information to a replacement controller or a replacement valve actuator assembly. Various types of wired and wireless connections can establish communication between the controller and the replacement controller or replacement valve actuator assembly.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for grounding a chamber isolation valve for a processing system are provided. In one embodiment, a grounded chamber isolation valve for a plasma processing system is described. The chamber isolation valve includes a door and a bracing member movably attached to and opposing the door, and at least one electrically conductive member in electrical communication with the door, the at least one electrically conductive member comprising one or more reaction bumpers disposed on the bracing member that are adapted to contact at least one grounded component of the plasma processing system when the door is in the closed position.

Abstract: A valve unit capable of being implanted in a patient and having adjustable performance settings, such as pressure settings and/or flow control, to regulate passage of a bodily fluid. A casing defines a port for the bodily fluid, and a valve mechanism positioned at the port includes a movable valve member. The valve unit further includes a rotor disposed at a first location in the casing and having an axle which turns about an axis of rotation. The rotor defines a plurality of arcuate, radially flat cam surfaces. Each cam surface occupies an arc about the axis of rotation. A spring arm unit is disposed at a second location in the casing having a cam follower arm in slidable contact with the cam surfaces of the rotor and having a resilient spring element applying a closing effect with the movable valve member to establish a performance setting for the valve unit.

Abstract: A tube constriction valve has a valve body (1) with an approximation sensor (3) and a clamping bolt (2) that squeezes the tube inside the valve body (1). The approximation sensor (3) detects the position of the tube constriction valve and can indicate corresponding data by an approximation element (4) on the clamping bolt (2). The tube constriction valve allows for automatic and also manual operation and at the same time contains a position indicator. Consequently, damage to the tube is prevented and processing reliability preserved.

Abstract: A method is described for controlling the operation of a metering valve driven by a stepper motor, a position sensor normally providing position information to allow control over the metering valve in a closed loop manner. The method comprises the steps of: performing a calibration operation to derive a relationship between stepper motor position and metering valve position; controlling the operation of the metering valve in a closed loop manner; and controlling the operation of the metering valve in an open loop manner in the event that the position sensor output is thought to be unreliable; wherein, when operating in the open loop manner, the metering valve is moved to a desired angular position by using the relationship derived in the calibration operation to determine the stepper motor position associated with the desired metering valve position and moving the stepper motor to the determined stepper motor position.

Abstract: A flow rate controller detects a clogged state of an orifice to prevent errors during flow rate measurement. The flow rate controller includes a differential pressure flow meter, with an orifice disposed between a pair of pressure sensors, that converts a pressure difference detected by the two pressure sensors into a flow rate, a flow-rate adjusting valve whose degree of opening is controlled such that the difference between a measured flow rate value and a preset flow rate value falls within a predetermined range, and a control unit that controls the degree of opening of the flow-rate adjusting valve upon receiving the pressure values detected by the pressure sensors. The control unit compares the preset flow rate value and the measured flow rate value and determines that there is a clog fault when a flow rate difference, as compared with a predetermined value, continues for a predetermined time period.

Abstract: A control valve unit for a liquid circuit of an internal combustion engine, includes a valve housing (1) having at least one inlet opening (2) or outlet opening (2?) and at least two outlet openings (31, 32, 33) or inlet openings (31?, 32?, 33?) and at least two closing elements (41, 42, 43) actuated by a control device (22). The closing elements selectively open or close an associated outlet or inlet opening. The closing elements may be continuously adjusted between maximum open and closed positions. The control device (22) includes at least one displaceable or rotatable cam (6) and includes at least two cam tracks (71, 72, 73), each of which is assigned to a closing element (41, 42, 43) and acts on at least one driving pin (11) that is in contact with said closing element (41, 42, 43). The cams (6) are adjusted by an actuator (8).

Abstract: There is provided an apparatus for measuring a position of a linear type valve which is open/shut by operation of a hydraulic cylinder. More particularly, the apparatus more accurately measures a valve position by outputting a rotation angle of a rotation sleeve which rotates by being operatively connected to a hydraulic cylinder which moves linearly, and by calculating a vertical movement distance of a valve gate which changes in proportion to the rotation angle. Further, since the structure of the apparatus is very simple, the cost of production is significantly reduced. In addition, for use, the apparatus is installed on the hydraulic cylinder by a simple method.

Abstract: The presence of, absence of, or characteristics of, flexible tubing within a solenoid actuator valve may be determined by calculating the approximate amount of work performed by the solenoid actuator valve's armature as it closes. The likelihood of dislodgment of tubing within a closed solenoid actuator valve may be monitored by evaluating the velocity of the solenoid actuator valve's armature over a period of time.

Abstract: A valve provides automatic switchover from a plurality of fluid pressure sources to a common outlet. The valve includes first and second spools respectively in first and second spool chambers, and each spool includes at least one sealing member carried thereon for selective sealing engagement with said first and second spool chambers. Fluid passageways transfer spool controlled fluid pressures between the first and second spool chambers. Each of said first and second spools are resiliently biased towards an open position, and fluid-biased towards a closed position. In an open position, the first and second spools are adapted to deliver pressurized fluid from an associated inlet port to an end chamber of the opposite spool chamber. In a closed position, the first and second spools are adapted via the at least one sealing member to inhibit delivery of pressurized fluid. A manifold assembly provides fluid communication to the common outlet.

Abstract: There is provided a multi-turn hydraulic actuator used to open/close a passageway in ground and sea industries including general industrial machines, oil refineries and chemical plants and power generating plants, among others, and more particularly, a multi-turn hydraulic actuator comprising: a hydraulic motor and a decelerator, among others, whereby high torque is efficiently obtained by using low electric power, compared to a conventional electric actuator, and whereby an operation part and a drive part are freely attached to/detached from at a user's necessity.

Abstract: A micro-fluidic valve actuator assembly is provided for controlling a multi-position micro-fluidic valve device for switching between a plurality of discrete fluid distribution positions. The actuator assembly includes a housing having an exterior wall and an interior wall defining an interior through-chamber. A drive assembly is rotatably positioned within the chamber, having a drive axis of rotation positioned substantially co-axial with the chamber axis. A removable, stand alone, self contained encoder assembly is positioned within the actuator housing. The encoder assembly includes an encoder shaft rotatably mounted to a support structure for rotation about an encoder shaft axis. The encoder assembly further includes an encoder wheel mounted to the encoder shaft for rotation about the encoder shaft axis, and an encoder module mounted to the support structure.

Abstract: An actuating device for an on/off valve having a pneumatic drive that is connected to a compressed air supply by a solenoid valve, wherein when driven with a control voltage, the solenoid valve ventilates the pneumatic drive with the compressed air and, when the control voltage is not present, vents the pneumatic drive. The pneumatic drive moves the on/off valve into an operating position during ventilation and moves it into a safety position during venting. To permit the performance of partial-stroke tests in the simplest way possible, a device for performing the partial-stroke test includes a controllable switch which is closed in a quiescent state, and in this case supplies the control voltage to the solenoid valve. The controllable switch is opened by a control signal that is generated to perform the partial-stroke test.

Abstract: The present invention provides failsafe system for cutting gas off gas flow in response to electrical insults that may damage gas tubing. The invention uses an inductive sensor to detect electrical surges along a ground conductor that provides a ground path for gas tubing. The sensor is coupled to control circuitry that provides a continuous pulse train to a solenoid that forms part of a valve that controls gas flow through the gas tubing. The pulse train from the control circuitry keeps the valve open. In response to an electrical surge detected along the ground conductor (e.g., from lightning), the control circuitry stops the pulse train to the solenoid, which in turn causes the gas valve to close and stop the gas flow through the tubing.

Abstract: A multi-channel stepped motor operated gas adjusting valve includes a valve shell, a reduction motor, a locator, a gas flow distributor and a locator rotation angle detecting mechanism. The gas flow distributor has a disk which is tightly attached to a hard hollow washer. An inner wall of the valve shell is provided with locating ends corresponding to a group of locating nodes to form the locator rotation angle detecting mechanism. Each locating node is placed corresponding to a gas flow distribution groove of the same sequence. The inner wall of the valve shell is also provided with stopping blocks at a beginning state and an ending state of the locator. The valve enables accurate control by utilizing an action position feedback signal and a control circuit, and enables multi-position stepped adjustment on gas flow rate upon multi-channel gas passages simultaneously. The valve can independently cut the multi-channel gas passages.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a valve that has an orifice closing member adjacent to an orifice through which fluid can flow, a displacement member having a first portion and a second portion, where the first portion is adjacent to the orifice closing member when the valve is in an open position, a first magnet and a second magnet where the first and second magnets are sufficiently proximate to the displacement member to exert a magnetic force on the displacement member, and an actuator for generating a magnetic field to move the displacement member toward the first magnet, cause the first portion to press against the orifice closing member, and cause the orifice closing member to close the orifice.

Abstract: The displacement sensor (100) includes a rod (103) including a conical convex graduated magnetically anomalous region (105) and a magnetic sensor (110) located in close proximity to the concical convex graduated magnetically anomalous region (105). The magnetic sensor (110) generates a positional signal that is related to the position of the concical convex graduated magnetically anomalous region (105) in relation to the magnetic sensor (110).

Abstract: The disclosure relates to an actuating drive having a position transmitter for control of an actuating element with a position in a process installation. The position transmitter is equipped with a rotary measurement system whose pivoting range is mechanically limited, with the rotary measurement system having a shaft which is connected to a pick-up lever in an interlocking and unconfusable manner, which pick-up lever is articulated by means of the actuating drive or the actuating element. The shaft and the rotary measurement system are connected to one another via a slipping clutch. Markings are arranged isoazimuthally with respect to the rotation axis of the shaft, on the shaft circumference, and include angle information about the angle of the marking position with respect to the pick-up lever. The digital position transmitter has a sensor system for identification and evaluation of the markings. The slipping clutch has hysteresis.

Abstract: A servovalve includes a single motor which actuates separate valve members of separate servovalve assemblies. Each of the valve members controls the flow of hydraulic fluid from separate hydraulic fluid sources. In order to provide each valve member with the ability to operate in the event that the other valve member becomes inoperable, such as caused by jamming of the valve member, each servovalve assembly includes a compression assembly that provides each servovalve assembly with a jam-override capability.

Abstract: A combination air regulator and sensor assembly includes a head including a first chamber having an inlet and an outlet. A regulator dome including a second chamber is linked with the first chamber through a bore. The second chamber includes at least one outlet. A valve assembly is housed within the bore and moveable between closed and open positions sealing and allowing flow in the bore. A first diaphragm is positioned in the second chamber and linked with the valve assembly. The valve assembly moves in response to a pressure applied to the first diaphragm. A spring contacts the first diaphragm and applies a biasing force to the first diaphragm. A sensor dome including a third chamber is linked with the outlet of the second chamber. The sensor chamber includes a discharge outlet. A second diaphragm is positioned in the sensor chamber.

Abstract: A flow sensing valve includes a valve housing having an inlet port, an outlet port, and a plurality of flow sensing ports. A valve member, located within the valve housing, is configured to move between an open position and a closed position. The valve member allows fuel flow between the inlet port and outlet port in the open position, and blocks fuel flow between the inlet port and the outlet port in the closed position. A position sensor, operably coupled to the valve member, is configured to determine a valve position of the flow sensing valve. The valve position is indicative of a valve open port area. A metered flow rate of pressurized fuel through the flow sensing valve in a upstream manifold is proportional to the valve open port area because the flow sensing valve maintains a nearly constant differential pressure across the inlet and outlet ports.

Abstract: An electromagnetic valve has an electromagnetic coil supported by a cylindrical yoke, a movable armature within a sleeve, a stator core fixed to one end of the sleeve, wherein one end of the stator core protrudes from an end of the yoke. A pressure sensor is attached to a protruding end of the stator core. A magnetic flux limiting portion is formed in the stator core at such a position which is on a side of the protruding end of the stator core toward the pressure sensor. A magnetic flux flow to the pressure sensor is limited by the magnetic flux limiting portion, so that a precise detection by the sensor can be achieved even when the sensor is arranged closer to the electromagnetic coil.

Abstract: Tubular linear piezoelectric motor (100, 300), and a method for exciting a tubular piezoelectric resonator (101, 301) used in such motor. The motor is comprised of a resonator (101, 301) formed of a cylindrical tube. The tube has length nL comprised of a piezoelectric material, where L is some length, and n is an even numbered integer, greater than zero. The piezoelectric material of the cylindrical tube is polarized in a radial direction, perpendicular at each point to the interior and exterior surface of the cylindrical tube. The resonator is excited with one signal having a single exciter frequency applied across an inner electrode (102, 302) and one or more first outer electrodes (103, 103a, 103b). The single exciter frequency is selected to move a contact site of one or more annular protrusions along an elliptical path when the resonator is excited.

Abstract: A fluid power valve arrangement with at least one solenoid valve whose solenoid is connected or able to be connected via only two control lines with an electrical control and/or communication device. The solenoid valve has integrated in it a non-volatile storage device containing identification data of the solenoid valve, and furthermore a modulator for modulation of data of the solenoid valve in the two supply lines. The control and/or communication device possesses a demodulator for demodulation of the modulated data.

Abstract: A drain valve which is used in particular in storage tanks of dishwashers, such as single-chamber or multi-chamber dishwashers. The drain valve comprises a sieve insert accommodated on a support which is of tubular design, and in which a contact switch is arranged to sense the presence of the sieve insert. The support can be moved in the vertical direction with respect to the drain opening in the base of a storage tank by means of an electric drive.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method and an arrangement for diagnosis of a final control element, which is actuated by a pneumatically operated actuating mechanism under the control of a control device, and which emits acoustic signals during conventional use. It is proposed to detect acoustic signals fed back into the pneumatic system of the actuating mechanism, and to derive from them the status data of the final control element. For this purpose, an acoustic sensor is arranged in the pneumatic-fluid supply line of the actuating mechanism, with the acoustic sensor being electrically connected to an analysis device. A pressure sensor is used as the acoustic sensor.