Abstract: A distance measurement device includes: a mirror disposed so as to be tilted relative to a rotation center axis; a drive unit configured to rotate the mirror about the rotation center axis; a photodetector configured to detect reflected light, of laser light, reflected in a distance measurement region; and a condensing lens disposed on the rotation center axis and configured to condense the reflected light reflected by the mirror, on the photodetector. The mirror has a shape elongated in one direction and is disposed such that a short axis thereof is tilted relative to the rotation center axis in a direction parallel to a plane including the rotation center axis. A width in a short-axis direction of the mirror is smaller than a width of a lens portion of the condensing lens as viewed in a direction parallel to the rotation center axis.

Abstract: An intermediate stalk (10) that is used for a low-pressure die-casting apparatus includes a metal covering material (2), and a precast refractory material (1) that is removably fitted into the metal covering material (2), an air release opening (3) being formed between the metal covering material (2) and the precast refractory material (1) when viewed from above. According to the present invention, an intermediate stalk that allows water to be sufficiently released from the refractory heat insulator during heating, does not explode, does not produce cracks in the refractory heat insulator due to the difference in coefficient of thermal expansion between the refractory heat insulator and the metal covering material, and allows easy replacement of the refractory heat insulator, a method of producing the same, and a low-pressure die-casting apparatus can be provided.