Abstract: Control apparatus for a device for hermetically closing an opening in a wall, which device includes a leaf movable from a hermetically closed position to a disengaged position in which it is slidable along a rail. The control apparatus includes a drive mechanism for moving the leaf from the hermetically closed position to the disengaged position and a linear electric motor for sliding the leaf along the rail, the linear motor including a first element secured to the leaf and a second element secured to the wall.