Abstract: A connector for connecting a first structural member, for example, a beam and a second structural member, for example, a column, which connection includes a first plate, a second plate attached substantially perpendicularly to the first plate and a third plate for mounting the connector to the column. The second plate is loosely fitted into a predetermined cut provided in the beam. The third plate is attached to one end of at least one of the first and second plate. The connector includes rods which can be closely fit into predetermined holes provided in the beam so that the connector and the beam can be connected tightly. The rods are pin-shaped and tapered in one end. The beam has a cut portion in a connecting portion for connecting the beam to the connector. The cut portion has loosely fitted therein the second plate and is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the beam. The cut portion is beveled at a lower end thereof so as to easily insert the second plate into the cut portion.

Abstract: A multi-spindle machine tool having separately and vertically movable first and second spindle units which are mounted on a main body thereof movable toward and away from a workpiece. A first vertically movable table is supported by a pair of guide rails provided on a frontal surface of the main body opposing to the workpiece. The first vertically movable table can be ascended and descended by a first actuator. A second vertically movable table is supported by a pair of guide rails provided on a frontal surface of the first vertically movable table opposing to the workpiece. The second vertically movable table can be ascended and descended by a second actuator. The first and second spindle units are fixed onto the first and second vertically movable tables respectively. Thus, the area of the first vertically movable table to be supported by the main body can be set to a relatively large value and the rigidity of the first vertically movable table can be kept effectively.

Abstract: A bi-metallic extrusion billet perform is produced in a single casting. An inner core made of a desired material is placed in the center of a crucible or mold as a prepared bar. Molten cladding material is cast into an annular area between the outside surface of the inner core and an inner surface of the crucible or mold. Bottom pouring is enabled through the center of the inner core, which has been appropriately provided with a hole of a size that is consistent with the extrusion press and the required extruded hollow size involved in later manufacturing steps. The entire operation, including the melting of the cladding material, is advantageously performed under a vacuum to eliminate the risk of trapping air at an interface between the inner core and the cladding material cost therearound.