Abstract: A control device for the sequential control of an advancing mine-roof support comprising pressure-controlled directional control valves alternately connectable to a high pressure line and to a return line in order to convert a pressure pulse into a switching step at the main control unit of the advancing mine-roof support and for transmitting an answering pressure pulse signalling the completion of the workstage for continuing the sequence.

Abstract: A self-advancing mine roof support has a beam-like abutment adapted to be disposed generally adjacent and parallel to a work face. Three roof support elements are spaced apart along the abutment and are pivoted to the abutment. The abutment may be angled relative to the direction of advance by arranging the three support elements in staggered formation. A beam of the central support element is pivoted to the abutment. The two outer roof support elements are connected to the abutment by a linkage, e.g., guide arms, which allows the abutment to pivot about the beam of the central element without changing the distance between the three elements as measured at right angles to the direction of advance.