MINE ROOF SUPPORT APPARATUS

A self-advancing support apparatus for protecting mine gate crossings, and optionally for engaging the reversing/driving head of a longwall and/or gate conveyor. The support apparatus has at least two side by side desired construction but expediently of a construction identical with that of the support unit at the longwall face to which said unit is connected via a coupling element. Each unit includes a base, a canopy, and connected between them, expediently by articulation, bracing elements as well as advancing elements and holding devices mounted on the base, and if so desired, for advancing the reversing/driving head of the longwall conveyor, a guide track extending in the direction of the gate conveyor, and an actuating/controlling unit. A holding mechanism is provided for engaging the reversing/driving head of the longwall conveyor and has at least two degrees of freedom of movement. An extendible cantilever is connected to the canopy, and at least one device for directional guidance connects the units together and expediently is in the form of a jack.