Abstract: A data comparison device holds first and second encrypted data of first and second plaintext, respectively. The first plaintext is divided into a plurality of blocks and the first encrypted data is generated by executing encryption of each of the plurality of blocks and shuffling of the plurality of blocks. The second plaintext is divided into a plurality of blocks and the second encrypted data is generated by executing encryption of each of the plurality of blocks. In at least one of the first encrypted data and the second encrypted data, a plaintext value is embedded as a value indicating a magnitude comparison result, and the data comparison device compares blocks at the same position before shuffling of the first encrypted data and the second encrypted data based on the embedded value and determines a magnitude relationship between the first plaintext and the second plaintext.

Abstract: A power transmission system for a marine propulsion unit includes an improved construction that can absorb a shock generated when a shift mechanism is operated. The propulsion unit has a powering element and a propulsion device. The power transmission system includes a first shaft driven by the powering element and a second shaft driven by the first shaft and driving the propulsion device. The first and second shafts have a common axis. A coupling assembly is mounted on both the first and second shafts so as to couple them for rotation together. A damper is disposed next to the coupling assembly. The coupling assembly includes a pair of coupling members. One of the coupling members is axially moveable along the common axis relative to the other coupling member to compress the damper at the moment the first shaft is rotated relative to the second shaft. In another arrangement, a lost motion mechanism operates when the first shaft is rotated relative to the second shaft such that the initial shock is damped.

Abstract: An improved thrust taking arrangement for an outboard drive includes an anti-friction member that transfers the thrust between the trim adjusting thrust member and the outboard drive. The anti-friction member is attached on the thrust taking member and is made of a material having a smaller coefficient of friction than both of the thrust member and the thrust taking member for reducing friction upon reciprocation of the thrust member.