Abstract: A compressible dental instrument to non-impressively adapt restorative material through compression comprises a handle portion (2), having a docking aperture (4) to interface with a highly compressible foam insert (10) with a docking extrusion and a tip holder (14) having highly compressible tip (16). A user can dock both to compressively adapt composite resin to a tooth's surface by first applying a restorative to a tooth and second applying the compressible portion to the restorative. Applied pressure compresses the tip to non-impressively micro manipulate composite resin.

Abstract: An asymmetrically placement designed to preserve bone by having the coronal aspect being compatible with the bony anatomy at the time of tooth extraction. The implant may be of either a single or two stage design. By modifying the top of the implant fixture to partially mimic the bony anatomy at the time of extraction more crestal bony anatomy can be preserved and bone growth encouraged.

Abstract: A method including measuring a physical quantity having a magnitude that changes in time as a result of a fire shot event so as to obtain a measurement signal, and comparing the measurement signal with a predetermined time-domain fingerprint for said quantity, which fingerprint is characteristic of the way the quantity varies in time upon a fire shot event, in order to confirm the occurrence of a fire shot event in case the measurement signal and the fingerprint match.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for managing a simulation. Information about the simulation is received over a wireless communications link with a computer system in an aircraft. The information is received during running of the simulation and identifies a performance of the computer system running the simulation. The running of the simulation is controlled based on the performance of the computer system.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for training in an aircraft. A display system is associated with an aircraft. A sensor system is associated with the aircraft. A training processor is configured to be connected to the aircraft. The training processor is configured generate constructive data for a number of simulation objects and generate simulation sensor data using the constructive data. The training processor is further configured to present the simulation sensor data with live sensor data generated by the sensor system for an aircraft on a display system in the aircraft.

Abstract: A system, method and apparatus is disclosed for coloring a substantially wicking substrate comprising applying to a substantially wicking substrate an ink comprising a first dye and a second dye to define a region of reference; applying a first solvent to the substantially wicking substrate to move the first dye and the second dye within the body of the substantially wicking substrate; moving the two dyes in a defined direction to carry the two dyes outside of the defined region to color an area of the wicking substrate to color at least a portion of the substantially wicking substrate.

Abstract: Described herein is a color display for cosmetics. The color display has a partially transparent flap with color swatches placed thereon, which allows the user to view a color as it may appear on their body.

Abstract: A device for communicating, preferably between two people who could not normally orally communicate, by at least one user pointing to pictograms on the device. The device can be a static medium having a plurality of icons thereon or can be part of a computer generated program having a graphic display that is either moving or stationary so that a user can select at least one icon to communicate an idea. When two or more people use the device to communicate, the device enables a dialogue to develop between the people. A first responder to an emergency situation could use the device in any country to gather information to quickly respond to the situation.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses to define an insertion indicator on a Braille device are described. Information about an insertion indicator at a location on a display device is received. An output associated with the insertion indicator is provided to a Braille device. The output to the Braille device reproduces the location of the insertion indicator on the display device. The output associated with the insertion indicator may be provided to at least two cells of the Braille device. The output to the Braille device may be provided to raise a first dot of a first Braille cell on the Braille device, wherein the first Braille cell corresponds to a second location that precedes the first location on the display device. A Braille caption panel may be displayed on a display device, the Braille caption panel includes a simulation of the output associated with the insertion indicator on the Braille device.

Abstract: A manikin for practicing resuscitation, comprising an inflatable body (1). The inflatable body (1) is adapted to absorb compression force exerted during simulated chest compression. Preferably, the manikin also comprises a chest plate (4), the chest plate (4) acting as a pressure distributor on the inflatable body (1). The chest plate (4) being connected to the inflatable body (1) by elastic means (22). The manikin may also comprise a lung part (2), the lung part being connected to a face mask (3). The lung (2) being adapted for inflation through the mouth and/or the nose of the face mask (3). The lung (2) having a chest portion (13) positioned substantially parallel to the chest portion (5) of the inflatable body (1). The face mask (3) being positioned at a head portion (7) of the inflatable body (1).

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method by which a thought can be (a) entered, (b) interpreted through combination of an adaptive thought-associative dictionary and user knowledge, (c) processed with an analytical toolset, (d) presented back to the user, (e) stored, and (f) updated. Through feedback the present invention attempts to track the user with increasing accuracy, in the context of a non-stationary environment. The present invention fully associates these elements through use of a database such that post processing can be readily applied to any element, or can be applied as the ability to do such post-processing is developed or improves. Furthermore, the present invention defines a mathematical construct and relationship to the thought environment such that many forms of processing can be realized.

Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods relate to a system for delivering interactive relationship skills training with multiple feedback source types for the benefit of remote players who access the system via electronic communication networks. In an illustrative example, some systems may deliver relationship skills training content having restricted access to two or more types of feedback sources. Feedback sources that may be accessed at first, second, third and fourth tiers may respectively include, for example, predetermined expert responses, a virtual partner, a remote human partner, and a moderated group of remote players. Players may gain access to feedback sources at progressively higher tiers of psychological complexity by accumulating a sufficient relational skills score at each tier.

Abstract: A training system for an article of footwear is disclosed. The training system includes a method of training an athlete to use an article of footwear with a traction system to help enhance speed and agility. The method can be implemented on a computer, mobile device or as an instruction booklet. The training system provides a total training solution for an athlete that is designed to enhance specific athletic skills.

Abstract: An apparatus is described that allows a table to be turned upside down so that a toddler can use the upright legs as grips and the horizontal cross support beams as obstacles to master the art of stepping over this obstacle height of the cross support beams. Once the art of stepping is mastered, the table is flipped upright to function as a table again. Several adjustments are added to a table so that the height of the cross support beams and length of the legs can be adjusted to provide a range of mastering possibilities when in the upside down position. When flipped upright, the surface of the table can have adjustable to have uniform height or a top that slants.

Abstract: The invention relates to a virtual OP simulator (10) for training for minimal-invasive operations, in particular for endourological interventions, having a simulation calculator unit (12), at least one instrument (40), at least one instrument input unit (30) for picking up the instrument (40), with the instrument input unit (30) allowing and recording movement of the instrument (40) in a predetermined number of degrees of freedom, and a force feedback unit (60) which is associated with the instrument input unit (30) and applies variable forces to the instrument (40) directly or indirectly via the instrument input unit (30).

Abstract: The invention describes a system and method for allowing an individual to view an educational program remotely. In the preferred embodiment, the invention is used as a healthcare education system. The system comprises a file server which is connected to a database holding the educational programs. A remote interface connected to the file server allows an administrator to assign educational programs to an individual. The remote interface also includes a memory card writer which records the individual's identification code and the address of the file server on a memory card. The individual is given the memory card to take home. When the individual places the memory card in the memory card reader of a multimedia processor, the processor uses the file server address to automatically connect to the file server. The file server receives the individual's identification code from the processor, retrieves the corresponding educational program from the database, and sends the program to the processor to be displayed.

Abstract: An interactive computer system and method collects, aggregates and distributes information derived from free-text responses to questions. The system and method collect free-text responses from a subject user and aggregates them with free-text responses from other users. The system and method then uses these free-text responses in learning methodologies (such as temporal spacing) and styles to facilitate long-term learning and knowledge retention.

Abstract: A slip-ring unit includes a first and a second group of components which are arranged in a manner allowing rotation relative to each other about an axis. The first group of components includes a slip-ring brush which is secured to a holder that is mounted between two components which are offset relative to each other in the direction of the axis. The second group of components includes at least one slip ring. The holder and at least one of the components each have an effective area by which a form-locking connection is produced between the holder and the at least one component. Forces having a directional component parallel to the axis are transmittable by the form-locking connection.

Abstract: A connector includes a conductive body with a central bore along a central axis. The body includes a mounting face for positioning adjacent a mounting surface of a circuit member and for removably engaging a reference pad of the circuit member. A center conductive contact includes a board engaging end for removably engaging a signal pad of the circuit member. An inner dielectric insert is positioned between the conductive body and the center conductive contact. The conductive body, the center conductive contact and the inner dielectric insert are configured to operate at a frequency of at least 40 GHz with a return loss of greater than 20 dB.

Abstract: A contact type of electric connection building block includes a base, electric connection posts and a top cover. The base includes recesses defined in a bottom thereof and a circuit board disposed on a top thereof. First and second connection circuits and an electronic component are formed on the circuit board. The electric connection posts are mounted on the circuit board. Each electric connection post has an exterior sheath and an interior post disposed in and insulated from the exterior sheath. The exterior sheath and the interior post each is made of a conductive material and includes a contact portion. The contact portions of the exterior sheath and the interior post are located at the same level and respectively connected with the first and second connection circuits. The top cover is mounted on the base.

Abstract: A disk drive, for electrical coupling to a host electrical connector of a host electronic system, includes a disk drive base. A top cover is attached to the disk drive base and a disk is rotably attached to the disk drive base. The top cover and the disk drive base together enclose the disk. A disk drive printed circuit board is also attached to the disk drive base. The disk drive printed circuit board includes a disk drive electrical connector. The disk drive electrical connector is configured to mate with the host electrical connector. The top cover includes a latching feature to retain the host electrical connector.

Abstract: The invention has an object to provide a circuit board assembly for a circuit board, the circuit board assembly having a contact and a housing. The housing includes a contact holding plate having a receiving passageway located in a surface of the contact holding plate disposed perpendicular to a surface of a circuit board, and a contact securing portion. The contact includes a press-fit into and held by the contact securing portion of the receiving passageway, and having a board insertion portion positioned perpendicular to the surface of the circuit board inserted into the receiving passageway from a side of the board insertion portion with respect to the contact holding plate, and a housing insertion section extending in parallel to the surface of the circuit board inserted into the receiving passageway from a side of the board insertion portion with respect to the contact holding plate.

Abstract: The power supply device includes a main bus-bar assembly, an assistant bus-bar assembly, and a plurality of connectors being electronically connected to the assistant bus-bar assembly. The main bus-bar assembly includes a first main bus-bar and a second main bus-bar attached to the first main bus-bar. The assistant bus-bar assembly includes a first assistant bus-bar and a second assistant bus-bar attached to the first assistant bus-bar. The first assistant bus-bar is electronically connected to the first main bus-bar, and the second assistant bus-bar is connected to the second main bus-bar. Each of the plurality of connector includes a first pin and a second pin. The first pin is engaged with the first assistant bus-bar, and the second pin is engaged with the second assistant bus-bar.

Abstract: A card edge connector (100) includes an insulative housing, a set of contacts (2) retained in the insulative housing and an ejector (3). The insulative housing has a central slot (12) and at least one tower portion (13). The tower portion includes a pair of outer walls (131) and a receiving slot (135) formed between the outer walls. Each outer wall has a ladder with a circular hole (1312) formed therein. The ejector has a pair of spindles (312) received in the circular holes and a pair of standoffs (313). Each standoff has a horizontal surface (3131) abutting against a corresponding horizontal resisting surface (1314) formed on the ladder so as to make centers of the spindle and the circular hole overlap when the ejector rotates inwardly.

Abstract: A receptacle may include a locking mechanism for retaining a plug in a mated condition. For example, the locking mechanism may engage with a hole formed in at least one prong of the plug. The locking mechanism may include at least one locking pin that moves to a retracted position during insertion of the plug into the receptacle, and that moves to an engaged position when the hole in the prong aligns with the locking pin. In some implementations, an electrical connection is not formed until the locking pin at least begins to engage with the hole in the prong. In some instances, an electrical contact may move into electrical connection with the prong as the locking pin engages with the hole in the prong. Furthermore, in some implementations, the receptacle may be included in a plug adapter for securely mating a plug with the plug adapter.

Abstract: A connector includes a cable tray configured to receive and retain a cable in a stable position and couple with a top cap configured to create an electrical connection with the cable as the top cap is manipulated in a predetermined manner while coupled with the cable tray. An upper surface of the cable tray is configured to receive the cable (e.g., while the cable is generally parallel with the longitudinal axis of the cable tray). The cable tray also includes a finger extending beyond the first end for some distance longitudinally. The finger includes a protrusion that protrudes to some extent in a transverse direction so that a cable-accommodating gap is defined between the protrusion and the first end. The protrusion is configured to bear against the cable and retain the cable in the stable position when the cable is inserted between the protrusion and the first end.

Abstract: An engaged protrusion is formed in a flat cable connected to a connector. The housing of the connector has an engaging protrusion rising in front of the position in which the engaged protruding portion is arranged when the flat cable is connected. A reinforced metal fitting has a reinforced protrusion raised along the engaging protrusion. The rear surface of the engaging protrusion is positioned to the rear of the rear surface of the reinforced protrusion. The rear surface of the reinforced protrusion is formed so as to extend upward and forward.

Abstract: A test socket may include a socket frame, a plate, a socket pin and a link. The socket frame may have a slot configured to accept an object. The plate may be free to move in the slot along an inserting direction of the object to support a lower surface of the object. The socket pin may be movably arranged in a direction substantially perpendicular to the inserting direction of the object. The socket pin may selectively make contact with a tab of the object. A link may be pivotally connected to the socket pin and the plate. Thus, the socket pin of the test socket may avoid dragging along the tab of the object during insertion, and accordingly, the tab of the object may avoid damage.

Abstract: An electrical connector assembly may include a connector body for receiving a power cable and having at least one T-end having a bore therein. An adapter is configured to be received within the bore in the at least one T-end, wherein the adapter comprises a conductive core coupled to the power cable. A sacrificial cap is configured to engage a portion of the adapter extending from the at least one T-end. The sacrificial cap comprises a sacrificial conductor that is coupled to the conductive core of the adapter and configured to be cut through to confirm that the electrical connector assembly has been de-energized.

Abstract: A lock device includes a helical gear driven and rotated by a motor. The helical gear is connected to a hook stopper control member, which is moved to a projected position when the helical gear is rotated in a clockwise direction, and a lid latch, which is moved to a retracted position when the helical gear rotated in a clockwise direction. A coil spring constantly urges the lid latch to a projected position.

Abstract: A fastening device is described that is arranged on a plug assembly having a connector plug and a base housing, having a fastening element for fastening the connector plug to the base housing, the connector plug having a plug housing with a screw shaft. The fastening element has a first fastening region and a second fastening region, wherein the first fastening region of the fastening element can be fixed to the screw shaft of the plug housing, and the second fastening region of the fastening element can be fixed to an outer surface of the base housing.

Abstract: A power line connector apparatus and a method of coupling a first power line connector to a second power line connector are provided. Embodiments include a first power line connector comprising an outer casing that includes a groove that forms a recessed space annularly around the outer casing, the groove opening radially outward from the outer casing; a second power line connector comprising an electrical contact housing including a rib that forms a recessed space annularly along the inner walls of the electrical contact housing; and a resilient retaining ring located at least partially within the recessed space of the groove, the ring compressing against the inner walls of the electrical contact housing as the first connector is inserted into the electrical contact housing of the second connector, the ring uncompressing within the recessed space of the rib as the first connector is fully inserted into the housing.

Abstract: An electrical outlet assembly includes a housing that has a back panel and a perimeter wall coupled to and extending from a perimeter edge of the back panel. The perimeter wall has a distal edge relative to the back panel. The distal edge of the perimeter wall defines an outlet opening into the interior of the housing. An electrical outlet is positioned within the interior of the housing. An electrical cord is electrically coupled to the electrical outlet. The electrical cord extends from the housing so that a medial section of the electrical cord is positioned outside of the interior of the housing. A fastener is coupled to the housing. The fastener couples the housing to the ladder. A plurality of straps is coupled to the medial section of the electrical cord. Each of the straps is configured for coupling the electrical cord to the ladder.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided fir coupling a plurality of electrical conductors, such as wires. A connector is provided including a plurality of bores or channels formed into a preferably unitary connector body, wherein at least a portion of one or more of the bores or channels intersects at least a portion of another of the bores or channels. The bores or channels are preferably formed along bore axes, which may be coplanar. A method according to the present invention includes inserting an insulated electrical conductor into a connector body and rotating a conductive rotational member threaded into a bore or channel formed in a connector body so as to electrically contact the conductive portion of the insulated conductor and at least one other electrically conductive surface.

Abstract: The present application relates to a checkable plug-in connection comprising a plug having at least one latching element, a verification element which is secured to the plug via a connection element so as to be prevented from being removed, and a mating plug which can be connected to the plug and comprises at least one counter-latching element. The plug-in connection is configured so as to be able to pass from a pre-connection configuration, in which the verification element is prevented from being removed from the plug by the connection element and in which the plug and mating plug are separate from one another, into an end connection configuration, in which the counter-latching element is engaged with the at least one latching element and in which the plug and mating plug are prevented from being pulled apart.

Abstract: Wire-free, unibody jumpers that may be used with crimp terminals. These jumpers may connect two or more adjacent or nearby crimp terminal openings in a plug housing. One example may provide a jumper that is formed from a single piece of metal or other conductive material. In this example, a form may be stamped from a sheet of metal or other conductive material. A jumper may be made by folding or bending the stamped form. The jumper may then be inserted into two or more adjacent or nearby crimp terminal openings in a crimp terminal plug housing. In various examples, the folding or bending of the stamped form may be done in various ways.

Abstract: A fixing structure fixing a power input connector on a bracket is provided. The power input connector includes a socket body. The fixing structure includes a first fixing element and a second fixing element. The first fixing element has a first coupling portion and an opening, and is connected to the bracket. The second fixing element has a second coupling portion coupled to the first coupling portion. An accommodation is formed between the first fixing element and the second fixing element for accommodating the power input connector, the socket body passes through and protrudes out of the opening. The first fixing element provides a first supporting force to balance a first force pulling the power input connector away from the bracket. The second fixing element provides a second supporting force to balance a second force pressing the power input connector towards the bracket.

Abstract: A fixing structure used for fixing a power input connector on a bracket is provided. The power input connector includes a socket body and a notch part. The fixing structure includes first and second fixing elements. The first fixing element has a first coupling portion and an opening. The second fixing element has a second coupling portion coupled to the first coupling portion, and a supporting portion connected with the notch part to fix the power input connector. The first fixing element covers the second fixing element and the power input connector, and the socket body is exposed from the opening. First and second fixing elements are fixed on the bracket to provide a first supporting force to balance a first force pulling the power input connector away from the bracket, and a second supporting force to balance a second force pressing the power input connector towards the bracket.

Abstract: Disclosed is type THHN cable having a reduced surface coefficient of friction, and the method of manufacture thereof, in which the central conductor core and insulating layer are surrounded by a nylon sheath. A high viscosity, high molecular weight silicone based pulling lubricant for THHN cable, or alternatively, erucamide or stearyl erucamide for small THHN gauge wire, is incorporated, by alternate methods, with the nylon material from which the outer sheath is extruded, and is effective to reduce the required pulling force on the cable during installation.

Abstract: An electrical connector includes at least one leadframe assembly, including a leadframe housing that carries a plurality of electrical contacts, and an external component, such as an electrically conductive plate, configured to be attached to the leadframe housing. The leadframe assembly includes an attachment system that includes an alignment assembly configured to align the electrically conductive plate with the leadframe housing as the plate is attached to the housing, and an attachment assembly that can be mated to attach the plate to the leadframe housing. The attachment assembly can be provided without creating any openings in the plate.

Abstract: An apparatus comprises an assembly and a SIM-card tray configured to move, at least partially, into and out of the assembly to thereby selectively electrically connect and disconnect a SIM card that is disposed in the SIM-card tray to and from at least one electrical connector. A biasing member automatically urges movement of the SIM-card tray with respect to at least one of moving the SIM-card tray into the assembly and out of the assembly. By one approach this biasing member comprises a spring. By one approach this spring can serve to both automatically urge movement of the SIM-card tray into the assembly and out of the assembly. These teachings will accommodate a SIM-card tray configured to accommodate a micro-SIM card. These teachings will also accommodate a personal communication device having the aforementioned components.

Abstract: A floor runner with electrical and/or electronic or data outlets provides a low-profile, unobtrusive power and/or data source along a floor or other support surface. The electrical floor runner may be a one-piece unit of substantially any desired length, and typically includes a power cord with plug or connector at one end for coupling to a wall outlet or the like, and a power/data block at the other end for receiving power and/or data couplers for other devices, such as computers and electronics, lighting, etc. A middle portion is a strong, low-profile region that houses and protects electrical wiring held internally, and that is minimally intrusive for use in walking areas. Optionally, the floor runner may be modular so that its overall length or configuration (e.g., straight or angled) can be changed as desired.

Abstract: An audio jack connector adapted for soldering on a circuit board and engaging with an audio plug connector includes an insulating housing and a plurality of terminals. The insulating housing has a main body, and an insertion portion connecting with one side of the main body. The insertion portion defines an insertion hole for receiving the audio plug connector therein. The main body defines a plurality of terminal grooves with bottoms thereof passing through a bottom surface of the main body. The insulating housing defines a plurality of mouths communicating between the insertion hole and the terminal grooves. The terminals are disposed in the terminal grooves. Each terminal has a contact portion projecting into the insertion hole through the mouth to electrically contact with the audio plug connector, and a soldering portion received in the bottom of the terminal groove to be soldered on the circuit board.

Abstract: Electrical connector including a plurality of mating conductors. Each of the mating conductors extends between an engagement portion and an interior portion. The engagement portions of the mating conductors are configured to engage contacts of the mating connector. The engagement portions are located proximate to one another at a first nodal region. The interior portions are located proximate to one another at a second nodal region. The electrical connector also includes a first open-ended conductor electrically connected to the engagement portion of a first mating conductor of the plurality of mating conductors and extending from the first nodal region. The electrical connector also includes a second open-ended conductor electrically connected to the interior portion of a second mating conductor of the plurality of mating conductors and extending from the second nodal region. The first open-ended conductor is capacitively coupled to the second open-ended conductor.

Abstract: A female terminal includes an electric contact portion that has a cylindrical box portion and an elastic contact spring disposed in the inner part of the box portion. An abutment portion of the metal plate is disposed on the upper wall portion of the box portion, and an indent is formed, from the outside of the box portion, at the upper wall portion having the abutment portion disposed thereon. A projection portion is provided at the inside of the box portion, and an apex of the projection portion is made to be a contact portion with respect to the male terminal.

Abstract: A multi-contact terminal fitting (T) has a plurality of resilient contact pieces (40) that extend from a rectangular tubular base (25) and can be brought into contact with an outer peripheral surface of a flat plate-shaped tab (11). The resilient contact pieces (40) extending from parts of the base (25) that have relatively high rigidity are narrow and those extending from less rigid parts of the base (25) are wider.

Abstract: A solid wire terminal (200) provides at least six locations of contact with respect to the electrical engagement of a conductive solid wire (232) with the solid wire terminal (200). The terminal (200) includes an electrical receptacle (202) having elongated upper arms (208) connected by an upper bridge (214), and elongated lower arms (216) connected by a lower bridge (222). The arms (208, 216) include half cylinder sections (224, 226) with inner surfaces (228, 230) which contact the conductive solid wire (232) when inserted between the upper bridge (214) and lower bridge (222). The solid wire terminal (200) is thus electrically connected to the conductive solid wire (232) along a longitudinal axis of the solid wire (232).

Abstract: A crimping apparatus includes an anvil for supporting a metal terminal including a base plate portion for mounting an electric wire thereon and a pair of crimping piece portions extending upwardly respectively from opposite side edges of the base plate portion and a crimper which includes a groove portion being opposed to a supporting portion of the anvil. An inner surface of the groove portion of the anvil and a terminal support face of the supporting portion of the crimper cooperate to press the crimping piece portions for crimping the crimping piece portions to the electric wire mounted on the metal terminal. A width of the groove portion of the crimper is not more than 1.0 mm. The terminal support surface of the anvil is formed into a concavely curved surface in which a depth of the concavely curved surface is not smaller than 0.06 mm and is not larger than 0.17 mm in a cross-section of the anvil perpendicular to an axis direction of the electric wire.

Abstract: A terminal fitting (10) includes a wire barrel (12) to be crimped and connected to a core (61) at an end portion of a wire (60). An insulation barrel (13) is located behind the wire barrel (12) and is to be crimped and connected to an insulation coating (62) at the end portion of the wire (60). The inner surface of the insulation barrel (13) is formed with a close-contact portion (18) to be held in close contact with the insulation coating (62) and a recessed groove (19) spaced from the insulation coating (62) and extending over the entire circumference. The recessed groove (19) has an opening (21) that is open at the front end of the insulation barrel (13) and a waterproof material (40) flows into the recessed groove (19) through the opening (21). The waterproof material (40) adheres to the outer surface of the core (61).

Abstract: A vessel propulsion apparatus includes a second shaft that is inserted in a first driven gear and in a second driven gear, that is connected to a dog clutch, and that is arranged to undergo a thrust. The vessel propulsion apparatus includes a first bearing disposed between the first driven gear and the second shaft, a second bearing disposed between the second driven gear and the second shaft, and a case to which a thrust applied to the second shaft is transmitted via the first bearing and the first driven gear or via the second bearing and the second driven gear. The vessel propulsion apparatus includes an adjusting member disposed between the second shaft and at least one of the first driven gear and the second driven gear and arranged to apply a preload onto the first bearing and the second bearing.