US Patent 6889654 Electronic throttle control for watercraft

A watercraft has an engine that is controlled by an electronic control unit and the engine is controlled by an electronic throttle. The electronic throttle is actuated by a motor that is controlled by and electronic control unit. The ECU operates the electronic throttle according to a torque request from an operator. The electronic throttle is also periodically and/or at predetermined time intervals actuated to ensure proper operation of the throttle valve.