Method for controlling a water jet propulsion device

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for controlling a water jet propulsion device for the propulsion of a marine vessel, the water jet propulsion device comprising: a conduit extending between an inlet and an outlet; an impeller in the conduit; and a mechanical power provider arranged to deliver power to the impeller; the method comprising receiving a plurality of thrust commands, and controlling a thrust level of the water jet propulsion device in dependence the thrust commands, wherein controlling the thrust level comprises adjusting a position of a deflector arranged to deflect water flowing out of the outlet, characterised by coordinating the adjustment of the position of the deflector with a level of engagement of a clutch, arranged to adjust the delivery of power from the power provider to the impeller, so that the thrust level is substantially continuous in a thrust command domain.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.