VERFAHREN ZUR ÜBERPRÜFUNG DER FUNKTIONSFÄHIGKEIT EINES STELLGERÄTES

A method for checking the functionality of an actuator is provided. A control valve is adjusted by an actuating drive by a manipulating element engaging the control valve, a position encoder captures the actual position of the manipulating element, and an electro-pneumatic position controller generates a pneumatic actuating variable as a function of the actual position and a target position. The actuating variable is applied to the actuating drive by an activated magnetic valve that is deactivated to vent the actuating drive. The magnetic valve is briefly deactivated so that it may be tested, such that the manipulating element moves through only a part of its adjustment path. The magnetic valve test is evaluated as successful if the manipulating element has moved at least a prescribed minimum distance.