Abstract: A transmission for a vehicle includes a main transmission (M) and a differential gear mechanism (20). The main transmission has at least two rotating elements (11, 12; 13, 14) each set to a different gear ratio, and the differential gear mechanism has at least three elements (21, 22, 23). There are provided first input means (C-1, C-2) which selectively inputs an input rotation to two rotating elements of the main transmission, and second input means (1, 2, C-3; 1, 2, 4) which connects the two rotating elements to two elements (21, 22) of the differential gear mechanism and inputs the input rotation to the other at least one element (23). Since an intermediate gear ratio with respect to an individual gear ratio is generated by two rotating elements at a time of simultaneously transmitting power to two rotating elements, it is possible to increase the number of shift speeds.

Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a novel method for effectively producing a cyclic lactic acid oligomer, and a cyclic lactic acid oligomer produced by the method.

Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a novel method for effectively producing a cyclic lactic acid oligomer, and a cyclic lactic acid oligomer produced by the method.

Abstract: A transmission for a vehicle mainly includes a main transmission (M) and a differential gear mechanism (20). The main transmission has at least two rotating elements (11, 12; 13, 14) each set to a different gear ratio, and the differential gear mechanism has at least three elements (21, 22, 23). There are provided first input means (C-1, C-2) which selectively inputs an input rotation to two rotating elements of the main transmission, and second input means (1, 2, C-3; 1, 2, 4) which connects the two rotating elements to two elements (21, 22) of the differential gear mechanism and inputs the input rotation to the other at least one element (23).

Abstract: There is disclosed a short and straight oil level gauge adapted for use with an automative automatic transmission. The gauge is inserted in an oil filler tube which is also short and straight. The tube has a flexible clamping member. The gauge has a rodlike body having two ribs, a cover at the upper end of the rodlike body, a plug portion located under the cover, a tool-connecting portion located above the cover, and insertion guide surfaces formed on the body and connecting the plug portion with the body. The tool-connecting portion is shaped like a socket, and a conventional socket wrench can be inserted into this tool-connecting portion. The insertion guide surfaces are formed by two ribs or fins radially extending from the rodlike body in mutually perpendicular directions. The guide surfaces cooperate with the inner surface of the tube to assure that the clamping member of the tube engages the cover.