Operating Device For A Tube Lifter And Tube Lifter

Tube lifter comprising an operating device for the tube lifter which comprises a lifting tube that has a tube interior and can be shortened by applying a vacuum to the tube interior, and comprising a suction grip device arranged on one end of the tube lifter, which suction grip device can be supplied with a vacuum through the tube interior,

• the operating device having a suction port for fluid communication with the suction grip device, a lifting tube port for fluid communication with the tube interior of the lifting tube, and valve means for controlling the fluid communications,
• the valve means comprising a control valve which is adjustable between a closed position and an open position, in the open position a flow path from the surroundings to the lifting tube port being open, and in the closed position said flow path being substantially closed;
• and a control mechanism comprising a manually actuable operating element being provided for adjusting the control valve,
• characterized in that the manually actuable operating element is configured as a manually grippable and rotatable rod and designed such that it can slide through an operator's hand when the suction grip device is being raised or lowered during operation.