The first hydraulic roof supports were installed underground in 1950s and ever since that time engineering developments have improved the supports in many different ways. However._x000D_
advances in three main areas, the roof support mechanical design, hydraulic engineering and electronics have ultimately led to the point where, 35 years after that first installation. automation has been achieved and is now commonplace._x000D_
The history of roof support automation has involved the continual integration of high technology engineering. Thera ate further possibilities for the future which combine to give some idea of the likelihood of there ultimately being a completely manless face.