DYNAMIC OPERATION CONTROL

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the application of biological and / or chemical substances or substance mixtures, in particular plant protection products, and / or nutrients outdoors. The present invention relates to a method, a computer system, a device, and a computer program product for dynamically adapting application parameters to variable air movements.

[0002] During the application of pesticides, it can happen that a portion of the pesticide is distributed uncontrollably due to wind. Drift refers to the portion of the pesticide that does not reach its intended target but is instead carried to other locations, for example, by wind. Such locations may be areas where pesticides are undesirable or prohibited. Examples include natural bodies of water, residential areas, ecological protection zones, and / or similar.

[0003] The same applies to plant nutrients that are applied to fields for fertilization during crop cultivation; here, too, the aim is to prevent the nutrient from entering natural waters, for example.

[0004] Likewise, when controlling unwanted vegetation on railway tracks, industrial facilities, roads, public spaces and the like, care must be taken to ensure that herbicides do not enter unwanted areas as a result of drift.

[0005] WO9712688A1 discloses a spray system for a spray vehicle, including a spray transport and drift model for predicting spray deposition. The model receives as input data about the spray system, the configuration of the spray vehicle, the airflow characteristics of the spray vehicle, the direction of travel, the travel speed, the weight, and / or vibration of the spray vehicle. Wind speed, turbulence, wind direction, and relative humidity can be input into the spray transport and drift model as environmental conditions. Furthermore, the orientation, height, and distance of the spray discharge from the nozzle tips, field conditions such as topography and vegetation in the spray target zones and surrounding areas, and the fluid properties of the spray mixture can influence spray transport and deposition.The spray system control system can use some or all of these factors to independently control the application rate and droplet size setpoints.

[0006] There is a need to use simple means to prevent the uncontrolled transport of biological and / or chemical substances or mixtures of substances as a result of wind into areas where they are unwanted or prohibited.

[0007] This object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent patent claims. Preferred embodiments can be found in the dependent patent claims, the present descriptions, and the drawings.

[0008] A first object of the present invention is a method comprising the steps: Applying a spray agent according to defined application parameters in a target area by means of a spray device, wherein the spray device comprises at least one spray nozzle, wherein the target area comprises at least one protection zone and / or borders on at least one protection zone and / or is located in the vicinity of at least one protection zone, wherein each existing protection zone is characterized by a minimum distance that must at least be maintained when applying the spray agent, during application: o Determining a direction of air movement, ∘ Determining a position of the at least one spray nozzle, ∘ For each existing protection zone: Determining a buffer zone corresponding to the protection zone, wherein the corresponding buffer zone extends from the at least one spray nozzle in the direction of the air movement, wherein the corresponding buffer zone has an extension in the direction of the air movement,which correlates with the minimum distance of the protection zone, ∘ Check whether there is an overlap between the at least one protection zone and the buffer zone corresponding to it, ∘ In case of an overlap: Adjust application parameters to prevent the overlap, Continue application using the adjusted application parameters. ,

[0009] Another object of the present invention is a spray device comprising: Means for moving the spray device in or over a target area, wherein the target area comprises at least one protection zone and / or borders at least one protection zone and / or is located in the vicinity of at least one protection zone, wherein each existing protection zone is characterized by a minimum distance that must at least be maintained during the application of the spray agent, at least one spray nozzle, means for dispensing spray agent via the at least one spray nozzle, means for determining the position of the at least one spray nozzle in the target area, a sensor for determining a direction of air movement, a control and computing unit, wherein the control and computing unit is configured to continuously determine the position of the at least one spray nozzle in the target area during the application of spray agent according to defined application parameters, and to continuously receive measurement data on the direction of the air movement,and to determine a corresponding buffer zone for each existing protection zone based on the position and the received measurement data, wherein the corresponding buffer zone extends from the at least one spray nozzle in the direction of the air movement, wherein the corresponding buffer zone has an extension in the direction of the air movement that correlates with the minimum distance of the protection zone, wherein the control and computing unit is configured to check whether there is an overlap between the at least one protection zone and the buffer zone corresponding to it, and in the event that at least one overlap exists, to change the application parameters so that there is no longer any overlap.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is a computer system comprising a receiving unit, a control and computing unit, and an output unit, wherein the control and computing unit is configured to cause the receiving unit to continuously determine a position of at least one spray nozzle on a spray device in a target area, wherein the target area comprises at least one protection zone and / or borders on at least one protection zone and / or is located in the vicinity of at least one protection zone, wherein the spray device moves in or over the target area and applies spray medium via the at least one spray nozzle according to defined application parameters, wherein each existing protection zone is characterized by a minimum distance that must at least be maintained when applying the spray medium, wherein the control and computing unit is configured to cause the receiving unit to continuously receive a direction of an air movement, wherein the control and computing unit is configured,to determine a corresponding buffer zone for each existing protection zone based on the position of the at least one spray nozzle and the direction of the air movement, wherein the corresponding buffer zone extends from the at least one spray nozzle in the direction of the air movement, wherein the corresponding buffer zone has an extent in the direction of the air movement that correlates with the minimum distance of the protection zone, wherein the control and computing unit is configured to check whether there is an overlap between the at least one protection zone and the buffer zone corresponding to it, and in the event that at least one overlap exists, to change the application parameters so that there is no longer any overlap, or to cause the output unit to output one or more signals that lead to a change in the application parameters so that there is no longer any overlap.

[0011] A further subject of the present invention is a computer program product comprising a computer program that can be loaded into a working memory of a computer system and causes the computer system to carry out the following steps: Determining a position of at least one spray nozzle on a spray device in a target area, wherein the target area comprises at least one protection zone and / or borders on at least one protection zone and / or is located in the vicinity of at least one protection zone, wherein the spray device moves in or above the target area and applies spray agent according to defined application parameters via the at least one spray nozzle, wherein each existing protection zone is characterized by a minimum distance that must at least be maintained when applying the spray agent, Receiving a direction of an air movement, for each existing protection zone: Determining a corresponding buffer zone based on the position of the at least one spray nozzle and the direction of the air movement, wherein the corresponding buffer zone extends from the at least one spray nozzle in the direction of the air movement,wherein the corresponding buffer zone has an extension in the direction of air movement that correlates with the minimum distance of the protection zone, checking whether there is an overlap between the at least one protection zone and the buffer zone corresponding to it, in the event that at least one overlap exists: issuing one or more signals that lead to a change in the application parameters so that there is no longer any overlap.

[0012] The invention is explained in more detail below, without distinguishing between the subject matter of the invention (method, computer system, device, computer program product). Rather, the following explanations are intended to apply analogously to all subject matter of the invention, regardless of the context in which they occur (method, computer system, device, computer program product).

[0013] If steps are mentioned in a particular order in this description or in the claims, this does not necessarily mean that the invention is limited to that order. Rather, it is conceivable that the steps may be performed in a different order or even in parallel; unless a step builds on another step, which absolutely requires that the subsequent step be performed (which will become clear in individual cases). The specified sequences thus represent preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0014] Some aspects of the present invention are explained with reference to drawings for clarity, without intending to limit the invention to the features and combinations of features shown in the drawings.

[0015] The present invention provides means by which, during the application of a spray in a target area, the application parameters are automated and continuously (dynamically) adapted to changing air movements in order to prevent drift into other areas.

[0016] The "target area" (English: target area ) is the area where the spray is / will be applied. The target area can, for example, be a field used for growing crops. In such a case, the spray is preferably a plant protection product and / or nutrients for the crops.

[0017] The term "plant protection product" refers to a product used to protect plants or plant products from pests or to prevent their effects, to destroy undesirable plants or parts of plants, to inhibit or prevent undesirable plant growth, and / or to influence plant life processes in a manner other than nutrients (e.g., growth regulators). Growth regulators are used, for example, to increase the stability of cereals by shortening the stalk length (stalk shorteners or, more accurately, internode shorteners), improve the rooting of cuttings, reduce plant height by compression in horticulture, or prevent the germination of potatoes. Other examples of plant protection products are herbicides, fungicides, and pesticides (e.g., insecticides).

[0018] "Nutrients" are those inorganic and organic compounds from which plants can obtain the elements that make up their bodies. Depending on the plant's location, nutrients are taken from the air, water, and / or soil. These nutrients are often not present in the optimal form and quantity for optimal utilization. Either they are not naturally present in sufficient quantities, or they are displaced in the soil, for example, through leaching, or removed from it in significant quantities by crops. Only the addition of plant nutrients through fertilization makes it possible to replace these nutrient withdrawals. Fertilization therefore improves plant nutrition, promotes plant growth, increases yield, improves the quality of the crop, and ultimately maintains and promotes soil fertility. In this description, the term "nutrients" is used synonymously with the term "fertilizer."

[0019] The target area can also be an industrial facility, railway tracks, roads, paths, squares, and / or similar areas that need to be cleared of unwanted vegetation. In such a case, the spray is preferably a herbicide.

[0020] Generally, the spray is a biological substance and / or a chemical substance or a mixture of such substances. The spray is used to produce a defined effect in the target area (prevent or promote plant growth, prevent the spread of pests, and / or the like). However, there are usually areas in, on, and / or around the target area where this effect is undesirable. The aim is to prevent the spray from reaching these areas when applied in the target area. Such areas are referred to in this description as protection zones (EN: non-target areas ) designated.

[0021] A "protection zone" is an area within the target area and / or an area adjacent to the target area and / or an area in the vicinity of the target area into which the spray should not reach. The term "neighborhood" includes all areas into which spray can be transported as a result of air movements (primarily wind) when the spray is applied in the target area. Typically, this is an area less than one kilometer from the target area, preferably no more than 100 meters.

[0022] A protection zone can be, for example, a path or road onto which no spray should reach. A protection zone can be, for example, a body of water (stream, pond, lake, river, sea) into which no spray should reach. A protection zone can be, for example, a flower strip or a green belt intended to promote local biodiversity. A protection zone can be, for example, an adjacent field. A protection zone can be, for example, a forest, a meadow, a pasture, an ecological conservation area, or a residential area. A protection zone can be a bush or hedge, or can include several bushes and / or hedges. A protection zone can be a habitat for non-target organisms, where the term "non-target organisms" indicates that the spray is not intended to spray the non-target organisms.A protection zone can also be an area in which a person and / or an animal or a group of people and / or animals are located. A protection zone does not have to be static, but can be dynamic; for example, it can be an object or a living being that moves in or over a target area or moves past a target area. The protection zone can comprise the object or living being as well as a defined area around the object or living being. It is conceivable that one or more sensors (e.g. motion sensors, cameras and / or the like) automatically and continuously detect an object and / or a living being and determine a defined protection zone around the object or living being.

[0023] Preferably, both the target area and existing (static) protection zones in, on, and / or around the target area are entered into a digital map or can be entered into a digital map by a user (e.g., drawn on a computer using a mouse). Such a digital map is a representation of a portion of the Earth's surface. The term "digital" means that the map can be processed by a machine, usually a computer system. "Processing" refers to the well-known methods of electronic data processing (EDP).

[0024] In the case of dynamic protection zones, the protection zones can be continuously and automatically determined and included in a digital map as described above, and the map can be updated in case of changes in the size and / or position and / or shape of a protection zone.

[0025] For each of these protection zones, a minimum distance is defined that must / should be maintained when applying a (defined) spray. This minimum distance may be required by law or / and authorities and / or be part of best practices (English: best practices ) and / or arise from another requirement.

[0026] Fig. 1 shows, by way of example, a schematic view of a target area (TA) with a first adjacent protection zone (PA1), a second adjacent protection zone (PA2) and a third adjacent protection zone (PA3).

[0027] When applying a spray, a first minimum distance ( D 1 ) must be maintained. When applying a spray, a second minimum distance ( D2 ) must be observed. When applying a spray, a third minimum distance ( D 3 ) must be complied with. In this example, the following applies: D 3 < D 1 < D 2 .

[0028] Typically, compliance with the minimum distance is intended to ensure that spray applied in the target area does not enter a protection zone, for example due to wind. However, static compliance with the minimum distance, regardless of wind direction and any resulting drift, can effectively reduce the target area; in the case of a field used for growing crops, this can result in a reduction in the area under cultivation. Furthermore, due to the minimum distance, not all areas of a target area can be treated with a spray - there is a risk of pests spreading and / or a risk that pests will develop resistance to the spray and / or other, usually more complex measures must be taken to also treat areas that lie within the minimum distance.It is also conceivable that, in the case of crop cultivation, non-treatment or inadequate treatment of parts of the target area could result in yield losses. These disadvantages are overcome by the present invention. With the present invention, during the application of spray, those areas into which spray may reach due to changing air movements are continuously and automatically identified, and the application parameters are adjusted to prevent spray from being transported into protected zones.

[0029] A spraying device is used to apply a spray agent to a target area. Such a spraying device typically has means for moving the spraying device in or over the target area. The spraying device can be, for example, a motor-driven agricultural machine, a manned or unmanned aerial vehicle (e.g., a drone), or a robot. The movement of the spraying device in or over the field can be autonomous or controlled by a human.

[0030] The spray device typically has at least one container for holding a spray agent. It is conceivable that multiple containers may be present, for example, for holding different spray agents and / or for holding (different) spray agent concentrate(s) and diluent(s) (usually water).

[0031] The spraying device comprises at least one spray nozzle. The term "spray nozzle" refers to one or more openings from which spray medium can emerge and be applied to the target area. The term "spray nozzle" is not intended to be restrictive; it is also intended to include, for example, a rotating spray disc.

[0032] The spraying device preferably comprises a plurality of spray nozzles. The term "plurality" means at least two, preferably at least three. Typically, at least 10 spray nozzles are present. Conveying means (e.g., one or more pumps) convey spray from one or more containers toward the at least one spray nozzle. The spray is applied in / over the target area via the at least one spray nozzle.

[0033] When spray medium emerges from the at least one spray nozzle, the spray medium wets a defined area in the target region. The size and shape of the wetted area is determined by the application parameters. The application parameters are those parameters that determine the spraying result. The application parameters include the type and shape of the at least one spray nozzle, the number of spray nozzles used, the arrangement of the spray nozzles, the spray pressure, the type of spray medium, the movement speed of the spray device, and / or the like. The size and shape of the wetted area can be determined empirically. The area wetted with spray medium is also referred to in this description as the "wetting area." A synonymous term is the term "spray zone." The area wetted when the spray device is at a standstill (the spray device is not moving) is also referred to in this description as the standstill wetting area.The wetting area and the standstill wetting area are preferably the wetted areas that result during an application when there is no wind.

[0034] The spray device can comprise at least one spray bar. Such a spray bar typically has a plurality of spray nozzles, which are usually mounted on the spray bar at a defined distance from one another so that the spray medium discharged from the plurality of spray nozzles wets an area in the target region as evenly as possible. The spray bar is typically arranged transversely (preferably perpendicularly) to the direction of movement of the spray device, so that when the spray device moves in a straight line along a defined path, it sweeps over an area whose surface area (in a vertical arrangement) corresponds to the product of the width of the spray bar and the length of the defined path.

[0035] If spray is applied during this linear movement, it wets an area whose surface area corresponds to the product of the spray width and the length of the defined distance.

[0036] Fig. 2 shows, by way of example and schematically, an embodiment of the spraying device according to the invention (a) in a plan view and (b) in a side view. The spraying device (1) comprises a tractor (10) which is connected to a spray boom (12) via a linkage (11). The spray boom (12) has a plurality of spray nozzles arranged at a constant distance from one another. Spray medium SM leaves the spraying device via the spray nozzles. If the spraying device moves forward (in the direction of arrow P), the spray width is SW.

[0037] The spray device in Fig. 2 further comprises a GPS receiver (13). The term "GPS receiver" should generally be understood as a component of a satellite navigation system. Global Positioning System GPS (German: Global Positioning System), officially NAVSTAR GPS, is an example of a global satellite navigation system for positioning; other examples are GLONASS, Galileo, and Beidou. The satellites of such a satellite navigation system communicate their precise position and time via radio codes. To determine a position, a receiver (the "GPS receiver") must receive the signals from at least four satellites simultaneously. The receiver measures the pseudo-signal propagation times and uses these to determine the current position.

[0038] In Fig. 2 the GPS receiver (13) is attached to the tractor (10). However, it can also be attached to the boom (11), the spray boom (12) and / or near one of the spray nozzles and / or to another component of the spraying device. It is also conceivable that several GPS receivers (or other position-determining units) are present. The aim of the invention is to determine a buffer zone for each existing protection zone, which extends from the at least one spray nozzle in the direction of a determined air movement. Therefore, the position of the at least one spray nozzle is preferably determined. If several spray nozzles are present, the position of each existing spray nozzle is preferably determined. If the GPS receiver is attached near a spray nozzle, the position of the spray nozzle can be equated with the position of the GPS receiver.The term "proximity" means that the distance between the spray nozzle and the GPS receiver is preferably smaller than the accuracy of the GPS receiver in determining its position. If the GPS receiver is mounted on the spray device at a distance from at least one spray nozzle that is greater than the accuracy of the GPS receiver in determining its position, the position of the spray nozzle can be determined, for example, from the position of the GPS receiver, the distance between the GPS receiver and the spray nozzle, and the direction of movement of the spray device, assuming the arrangement of the spray nozzle on the spray device is known.

[0039] However, it should be clarified that a GPS receiver is not necessarily required to determine the position of the at least one spray nozzle and / or the spray device; the position can also be determined in other ways, e.g., via GSM positioning and / or distance sensors and / or the like.

[0040] The spray device in Fig. 2 further comprises an air movement sensor (14). The air movement sensor can (as in Fig. 2 shown) on the tractor (10), on the boom (11) and / or on the spray boom (12). The closer the air movement sensor is mounted to the at least one spray nozzle, the more accurately the air movement at the spray nozzle can be determined. It is conceivable that several air movement sensors are present. However, the spraying device does not necessarily have to include an air movement sensor. It is also conceivable that one or more air movement sensors are stationary in the target area or in the vicinity of the target area.

[0041] According to the invention, during the application of spray, the direction of air movement is continuously detected using one or more air movement sensors. An air movement sensor measures the direction in which air moves relative to the air movement sensor. It is also conceivable for the air movement sensor to measure not only the direction of air movement but also the speed of the air moving relative to the air movement sensor. Such an air movement sensor can be, for example, a wind vane (anemoscope) and / or an anemometer.

[0042] When applying a spray in a target area, air movements can transport parts of the spray into one or more protection zones where the spray is undesirable. Such air movements are usually wind. "Wind" refers to the movement of air in the Earth's atmosphere. It is also conceivable that the air movement is a headwind or a combination of wind and headwind. The headwind is the "headwind" caused by the movement of a vehicle or aircraft. It is therefore as fast as the speed of the vehicle / aircraft and opposite to the direction of movement (by 180°).

[0043] The at least one air movement sensor continuously determines the direction of air movement relative to the air movement sensor and optionally also the air movement speed relative to the air movement sensor and transmits the measured values ​​to a control and processing unit, for example via radio signal or via a cable connection.

[0044] The control and computing unit can be part of the spraying device or independent of it.

[0045] The control and computing unit also continuously obtains data on the position of the spraying device and / or the at least one spray nozzle, e.g. from a GPS receiver.

[0046] Optionally, the movement speed of the spraying device can also be recorded and transmitted to the control and processing unit; for this purpose, the spraying device can be equipped with a speedometer; however, speed determination using the GPS receiver (or another positioning system) in combination with a timer is also conceivable.

[0047] The control and computing unit is configured to continuously and automatically create one or more buffer zones based on the received data (position of the spraying device / at least one spray nozzle, direction of air movement, optional speed of air movement, optional speed of movement of the spraying device). buffer zones ). Each of these buffer zones corresponds to a protection zone. Each of these buffer zones extends from the at least one spray nozzle in the direction in which the air surrounding the spray nozzle moves relative to the spray nozzle.

[0048] The buffer zones can have different extensions in the direction of air movement. This extension correlates with the minimum distance of the protection zone belonging to the buffer zone. The greater the minimum distance of a protection zone, the greater the extension of the buffer zone in the direction of air movement. This is illustrated schematically in Fig. 3, Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 shown.

[0049] Fig. 3, Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 show exemplary and schematic illustrations of different buffer zones depending on the wind direction.

[0050] In Fig. 3 the spray device (1) is made of Fig. 2 shown in a reduced form. It moves in the direction of arrow P. The arrow W indicates the direction in which the wind is moving; it is directed opposite to the direction of movement of the spray device (180°). Three surfaces extend from the spray boom of the spray device (1) in the direction in which the wind is moving. The surfaces have different surface areas and different extensions in the direction of the wind. Since the surfaces overlap, they are shown a second time to the right of the spray device in a fanned-out form for clarity. The surfaces are designated PB3, PB1, and PB2. Each of the surfaces defines a buffer zone. In Fig. 3 applies: PB3 <PB1< PB2. Jede der Pufferzonen korrespondiert mit einer Schutzzone. Dabei bedeutet der Begriff "korrespondieren" vorzugsweise, dass die Größe der Pufferzone mit dem Mindestabstand der Schutzzone korreliert.

[0051] In Fig. 4 the situation has changed in relation to Fig. 3 in such a way that the wind direction, represented by the arrow W, has changed. The direction of movement of the wind and the direction of movement of the spray device form an angle β of approximately 135°. The three buffer zones extend from the spray boom of the spray device (1) in the direction in which the wind is moving. The buffer zones each have the shape of a parallelogram. In Fig. 3 applies: PB3 <PB1< PB2.

[0052] In this example, the area is calculated A Z a buffer zone for a protection zone Z by the following formula: A Z = k ⋅ SW ⋅ D Z ⋅ sin α

[0053] This is SW the spray width, DZ is the minimum distance that must / should be maintained from the protection zone Z, and α is the angle between the direction of air movement and the direction of extension of the spray boom. Typically, the spray boom is positioned perpendicular to the direction of movement of the spray device, i.e., the following usually applies: α = β - 90°, where β is the angle between the direction of wind movement and the direction of movement of the spray device. The parameter k is a factor that may depend on the spray agent used and / or the spray nozzle used and / or the application parameters and / or the wind speed and / or the speed of movement of the spray device. The relationships described are shown again as examples and schematically in Fig. 5 for a buffer zone. The three Fig. 5 The arrows shown indicate different wind directions. The parameter SW specifies the spray width. This is independent of the wind direction. The parameter D represents the minimum distance of the protection zone corresponding to the buffer zone. The product k·D is also independent of wind direction. As the wind direction changes, the angle α between the spray width and the wind direction changes, and thus also the orientation of the buffer zone and the surface area of ​​the buffer zone. It is conceivable that the surface area correlates with the wind speed; it is conceivable that the surface area increases as the wind speed increases.

[0054] The Fig. 3, Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 Buffer zones shown represent a concrete embodiment of the present invention. In the Fig. 3, Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 In the examples shown, a buffer zone was determined for all spray nozzles (for each existing protection zone). Preferably, separate buffer zones are determined for groups of spray nozzles or for individual spray nozzles. This is shown schematically in Fig. 6 , Fig. 7 , Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 shown.

[0055] Fig. 6 shows a schematic example of the definition of a buffer zone for a protection zone. For the protection zone, a minimum distance D which must be observed when applying a spray. Fig. 6 In the example shown, a buffer zone is determined for a single spray nozzle. The position of the spray nozzle S is marked with an x. A wetting area WA is determined for the spray nozzle S. Such a wetting area can, for example, be the standstill wetting area, i.e. the area that the spray nozzle would wet with spray medium when the spray device is at a standstill. In this example, the wetting area WA is a circle around the spray nozzle S. In the next step, the wind direction is determined. In this example, this is indicated by the arrow W. In the next step, the wetting area WA is shifted in the wind direction. In this example, the wetting area is shifted by the amount of the minimum distance of the corresponding protection zone. The shift is in Fig. 6 represented by the dashed arrows and the resulting displaced area WA'. During the displacement, the wetting area WA sweeps over an area PB. This area PB represents the buffer zone for the spray nozzle S.

[0056] In Fig. 6 A circular wetting surface was defined with the spray nozzle as the center of the circle. Any other shape is also conceivable, and it is conceivable to arrange the wetting surface differently in relation to the position of the spray nozzle. Fig. 7, Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 show further examples of wetting surfaces and the resulting buffer zones. The choice (definition) of the wetting surface can, for example, be based on the wetting surface actually resulting from an application (which can be determined empirically). It is conceivable that a shape of the wetting surface and an arrangement of the wetting surface in relation to the at least one spray nozzle is selected (constructed) that is as close to reality as possible (approximation). It is also conceivable to choose a shape that can be created and moved quickly and easily using a computer in order to keep computational effort to a minimum and to have a solution available that reacts quickly to changing conditions. This is because with every movement of the spray device and / or a change in air movement, new buffer zones should be immediately calculated based on the changed conditions in order to prevent drift.A preferred form of a wetting surface, which is both close to reality and allows for rapid calculation of buffer zones and rapid determination of overlaps between buffer zones and protection zones, is a polygon. In . Fig. 7 A trapezoid was chosen for the shape of the wetting surface - the resulting shape of the buffer zone is a hexagon. It is also conceivable to choose a square, a rectangle, a parallelogram, a triangle, a pentagon, generally an n-gon (where n is an integer greater than three), an ellipsoid, or another shape for the wetting surface. The wetting surface does not necessarily have to be two-dimensional; a one-dimensional shape is also conceivable, as in Fig. 8 shown. Fig. 8 shows, as another example, the construction of a buffer zone starting from a straight line WA as the wetting area. The resulting buffer zone has the shape of a rectangle (as in Fig. 8 shown), or the shape of a parallelogram in the case where the wind direction is oblique (not at an angle of 90° or 0°) to the line WA. It is also conceivable to choose a curved wetting surface.

[0057] Figur 9 shows, by way of example and schematically, the construction of buffer zones for an arrangement of spray nozzles. In the present example, four spray nozzles S1, S2, S3 and S4 are arranged along a straight line at a constant distance from one another. For each spray nozzle, a wetting area in the shape of a rectangle is defined. The wetting areas are designated WA1, WA2, WA3 and WA4. Each wetting area is shifted by the amount of the minimum distance D in the wind direction (indicated by the arrow W); this results in the areas WA1', WA2', WA3' and WA4'. During the shift, the areas WA1, WA2, WA3 and WA4 each sweep out an area, which is each equated to a buffer zone. In this example, the buffer zones have the shape of a hexagon and are designated PB1, PB2, PB3 and PB4. In this example, the buffer zones overlap (PB1 with PB2, PB2 with PB1 and PB3, PB3 with PB3 and PB4, PB4 with PB3).However, such an overlap is not mandatory. In the case of . Fig. 9 In the example shown, a buffer zone was determined for each spray nozzle. It is also conceivable to construct a buffer zone for a group of spray nozzles. This is shown schematically in Fig. 10 shown. Figur 10 shows an example and schematically the construction of buffer zones for a group of spray nozzles. In this example, four spray nozzles S1, S2, S3 and S4 are arranged along a straight line. A common wetting area WA12 is defined for the spray nozzles S1 and S2. A common wetting area WA34 is defined for the spray nozzles S3 and S4. The wetting areas WA12 and WA34 are each offset in the wind direction by the amount of the minimum distance Dshifted. During the shift, the wetting surfaces WA12 and WA34 each sweep over an area that is designated as a buffer zone. The resulting buffer zone for the spray nozzles S1 and S2 is designated by reference symbol PB12; the resulting buffer zone for the spray nozzles S3 and S4 is designated by reference symbol PB34.

[0058] In the Fig. 6 , Fig. 7 , Fig. 8 , Fig. 9 und Fig. 10 In the examples shown, the wetting surfaces were reduced by the amount of the minimum distance D It is also conceivable that the wetting areas are shifted by the amount p · D be postponed, whereby D the minimum distance of the corresponding protection zone is still and p is a parameter that correlates, for example, with the wind speed and / or the speed of movement of the spray device and / or another application parameter.

[0059] In the Fig. 6 , Fig. 7 , Fig. 8 , Fig. 9 und Fig. 10 In the examples shown, the wetting areas were defined for the construction of the buffer zones and these were increased by the amount of the minimum distance D shifted in the wind direction. It is also conceivable to define and create buffer zones independently of a wetting area. This is shown schematically in Fig. 11 shown.

[0060] Fig. 11 shows an example of the design of a buffer zone for two spray nozzles arranged at a distance from each other. The spray nozzles are designated S1 and S2. In a first step, the wind direction is determined. This is then Fig. 11 indicated by the arrow W. In a further step, buffer zones are created that extend from the spray nozzles in the direction of the wind. The buffer zones are designated PB1 and PB2. In this example, the buffer zones have the shape of an (isosceles) triangle, with the height of the triangle (the height between the equal-length sides) corresponding to the minimum distance D Here, too, other shapes for the buffer zones are conceivable, such as a rectangle, a trapezoid, and many others. In a preferred embodiment, the shape of the buffer zone is mirror-symmetrical, with the mirror symmetry axis running along the wind direction and having a length corresponding to the minimum distance D In a preferred embodiment, the buffer zone has the shape of a polygon, with at least one side (edge) of the polygon running along the wind direction and having a length corresponding to the minimum distance Dcorresponds.

[0061] Since a spray device moves during the application of a spray agent, the position of the spray device and thus also the position of at least one spray nozzle and thus also the position of each buffer zone changes continuously.

[0062] Furthermore, the direction and / or speed of the air surrounding the spray device can also change continuously. If the direction of the air movement changes, the orientation of the buffer zone and possibly also the surface area of ​​the buffer zone changes. The buffer zone always extends from the at least one spray nozzle in the direction of the air movement. As the previous examples show, the term "extend" means that the buffer zone has at least one side or a height that is oriented parallel to the direction of the air movement. Typically, this side has a length that corresponds to the minimum distance Dcorresponds to or at least correlates with the corresponding protection zone.

[0063] The present invention takes into account the fact that the buffer zones can change continuously. The buffer zones are therefore recalculated continuously and automatically. "Continuously" (synonym: continuous) in this context means a new calculation at least every 10 seconds, preferably at least every 5 seconds. It is conceivable that the frequency of the recalculation is linked to the movement speed of the spray device and / or to the speed of the air movement, preferably in such a way that the frequency of the recalculation increases when the movement speed and / or the speed of the air movement increases. It is conceivable that the recalculation is linked to the speed of acquisition and / or determination of the data used to calculate the buffer zones. It is conceivable that a recalculation is performed whenever new data has been acquired and / or transmitted.

[0064] For each newly calculated buffer zone, a check is performed (also automatically and continuously) to determine whether the buffer zone overlaps with the corresponding protection zone. Such an overlap poses a risk of spray entering the protection zone.

[0065] Fig. 12 shows an example and schematically the spray device (1) from Fig. 2 located in the target area (TA) from Fig. 1 The direction of movement is indicated by arrow P. The wind is directed opposite to the direction of movement of the spray device (1) (represented by arrow W). Three buffer zones (PB1, PB2, PB3) extend from the spray boom of the spray device (1) in the direction in which the wind is moving. The surface areas of the buffer zones correlate with the minimum distances to the protection zones (PA1, PA2, PA3). Each buffer zone has two sides oriented parallel to the wind direction and whose lengths preferably correspond to the minimum distances to the protection zones (PA1, PA2, PA3). The minimum distances are Fig. 1 For the sake of clarity, they are listed in Fig. 12 Not shown. In the present example, there is an overlap between buffer zone PB2 and protection zone PA3. However, since buffer zone PB2 does not correspond with protection zone PA3, this overlap is uncritical. In the present example, there is no overlap between a buffer zone and the corresponding protection zone: PB1 does not overlap with PA1, PB2 does not overlap with PA2, and PB3 does not overlap with PA3.

[0066] Fig. 13 shows an example and schematically the spray device (1) from Fig. 2 located in the target area (TA) from Fig. 1 Compared to Fig. 12 the situation has changed as follows: The spraying device is moving in a different direction (shown by arrow P). The wind is moving in a different direction (shown by arrow W). Buffer zone PB3 overlaps with protection zone PA2. This is not critical because buffer zone PB3 does not correspond with protection zone PA2. Buffer zone PB1 overlaps with protection zone PA2. This is not critical because buffer zone PB1 does not correspond with protection zone PA2. Buffer zone PB2 overlaps with protection zone PA1. This is not critical because buffer zone PB2 does not correspond with protection zone PA1. There is an overlap between buffer zone PB1 and protection zone PA1. This is critical because buffer zone PB1 and protection zone PA1 correspond with each other. There is an overlap between buffer zone PB2 and protection zone PA2.This is critical because the buffer zone PB2 and the protection zone PA2 correspond with each other.

[0067] An overlap of a buffer zone with a corresponding protection zone should / must be prevented, as this could allow spray to enter the protection zone.

[0068] Measures are therefore taken to prevent overlap or to reduce the risk of spraying into a protected zone. Such a measure usually involves changing one or more application parameters.

[0069] Such a measure could, for example, consist in interrupting the spraying process, i.e. no more spray is applied.

[0070] Such a measure can consist of closing one or more spray nozzles. These spray nozzles will no longer discharge any spray agent. A closed spray nozzle either has no buffer zone or has a buffer zone that extends less downwind than an open one. By closing the spray nozzles or closing a valve upstream of a spray nozzle, an overlap between the buffer zone and the protection zone can be prevented.

[0071] Such a measure may consist of changing the nozzle opening of one or more spray nozzles and / or changing the pressure in front of the nozzle opening in order to change the distribution of the emerging spray and / or the droplet size of the emerging spray and / or the speed at which the spray emerges so that the spray moves more quickly to the ground and is less susceptible to wind.

[0072] Such a measure can involve changing one or more spray nozzles. Often, several spray nozzles are attached to a spray head, e.g., in the form of a revolver. The spray nozzles on the spray head can have different spray characteristics; for example, it is conceivable that there is a standard nozzle and one or more special spray nozzles, such as drift-reducing nozzles.

[0073] Another measure may be to reduce the speed of movement of the spray device.

[0074] Another measure may be to change the spraying agent. Different spraying agents may have different minimum distances to be maintained from protection zones. Accordingly, different spraying agents may have buffer zones of varying sizes. It is therefore conceivable that overlap can be prevented by choosing a spraying agent with a smaller buffer zone.

[0075] Fig. 14 and Fig. 15 show an example and schematically a change in application parameters to prevent an overlap of one or more buffer zones with a corresponding protection zone. In Fig. 14 and Fig. 15 the spray device (1) is made of Fig. 2 which are located in the target area (TA) from Fig. 1 The spray device moves in the direction shown by arrow P. The wind moves in the direction shown by arrow W. The spray device has five spray nozzles or five groups of spray nozzles attached to a spray boom (the spray nozzles are in Fig. 14 and Fig. 15 not explicitly shown). A buffer zone has been determined for each spray nozzle or group of spray nozzles (see Fig. 14 ). The buffer zones are in the form of parallelograms and extend from the spray nozzles (or groups of spray nozzles) in the wind direction. Each parallelogram has two sides oriented parallel to the wind direction. The length of these sides preferably correlates with the minimum distance that must / should be maintained from the protection zone PA; more preferably, the length of the sides is equal to the minimum distance. The buffer zones are provided with the reference symbols (a), (b), (c), (d) and (e). The buffer zones (d) and (e) overlap with the corresponding protection zone PA (see Fig. 14 ). To prevent this overlap, the application parameters can be changed in such a way that the spray nozzles with buffer zones (d) and (e) are switched off. Switching off the spray nozzles results in no more spray being applied via these spray nozzles. Accordingly, the buffer zones for these spray nozzles are no longer required. This is Fig. 15 shown; due to the shutdown of the spray nozzles, buffer zones (d) and (e) have been eliminated; only buffer zones (a), (b), and (c) remain. These do not overlap with the corresponding protection zone PA. Drift into the protection zone PA is prevented.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, in addition to the air movement-dependent buffer zones, an air movement-independent buffer zone is determined. This is preferably determined for bodies of water in, on, and / or near a target area, or the filter strips adjacent to the bodies of water. When cultivating crops, a grass strip is usually planted between the crop field and the body of water. This can act as a filter for pesticides and / or fertilizers and is also referred to in this description as a filter strip. vegetatedfilter strip Precipitation on the field can absorb pesticides and / or fertilizers. The filter strip can prevent the runoff water enriched with pesticides and / or fertilizers from carrying undesirable substances into the water body by filtering out the undesirable substances. The application of sprays in such a filter strip is intended to be prevented. This is achieved by the buffer zone, which is independent of air movements (especially winds).

[0077] The construction of a buffer zone for a filter strip is shown schematically in Fig. 16 shown. Fig. 16 (a), Fig. 16 (b), Fig. 16 (c) und Fig 16 (d) show four different examples of air movement-independent buffer zones. In all cases, four spray nozzles S1, S2, S3, and S4 are present, the position of which is marked by an x. In the case of Fig. 16 (a) There is a separate buffer zone for each spray nozzle (PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4). Each buffer zone is shaped like a circle with the position of the spray nozzle as the center point. The radius of the circle is preferably at least equal to the width of the filter strip. The filter strip usually has a defined width. B. The width B preferably the distance between the outer field boundary and the outer water boundary. The width B of the filter strip can vary along the length of the filter strip. In the case of Fig. 16 (b), Fig. 16 (c) und Fig. 16 (d) There is a single buffer zone for all four spray nozzles. In the case of Fig. 16 (b) The buffer zone has the shape of two semicircles arranged at a distance from each other, mirror-inverted, with the loose ends of the semicircles connected by straight lines. The positions of the spray nozzles S1 and S4 preferably correspond to the centers of the two semicircles. The radii of the semicircles preferably correspond at least to the width of the filter strip. The buffer zone PB in Fig. 16 (b) has the form of an envelope of the circles in Fig. 16 (a) . In the case of Fig. 16 (c) the shape of the envelope is Fig. 16 (b) approximated by an octagon; in the case of Fig. 16 (d) the shape of the envelope is Fig. 16 (b) approximated by a rectangle. Other shapes, especially other polygons, are also conceivable. The shape and size of a buffer zone for filter strips can, for example, be selected so that the distance of the position of at least one spray nozzle to the outer edges is never less than a specified value but is simultaneously kept small. The specified value can, for example, be the width B of the filter strip or a value correlating with it.

[0078] Fig. 17 and Fig. 18 show two different situations when applying a spray in a target area near a filter strip. The target area TA is separated from a (further) protection zone PA by the filter strip FS. In the target area TA, there is a spray device with an arrangement of four spray nozzles. Only the positions of the four spray nozzles are marked by crosses x. The spray nozzles are assigned a single air movement-independent buffer zone PB. The arrangement of the four spray nozzles and the buffer zone corresponds to that of Fig. 16 (b) . In addition, there is another buffer zone for each of the spray nozzles (PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4). These additional buffer zones correspond to the protection zone PA, which in this example is a body of water. The arrow W indicates the wind direction. The buffer zones PB1, PB2, PB3 and PB4 extend from the spray nozzles in the direction of the wind; their extension in the direction of the wind preferably corresponds to the minimum distance of the protection zone PA. There is an overlap of the buffer zones PB1, PB2, PB3 and PB4 with the corresponding protection zone PA. Measures must therefore be taken to prevent drift in the protection zone PA. In this case, this measure could consist, for example, of closing all spray nozzles so that no spray escapes. Fig. 18 shows the same arrangement as Fig. 17 , with the difference that the wind now comes from the opposite direction and the buffer zones PB1, PB2, PB3 and PB4 are accordingly also opposite to the previous one (in Fig. 17 shown) direction. The orientation of the buffer zone PB has not changed; it is independent of the wind direction. There is no overlap between the buffer zones PB1, PB2, PB3 and PB4 and the corresponding protection zone PA. Spray could therefore be applied at this position in the target area TA, as the risk of drift in the protection zone PA is low. However, applying spray at this position in the target area could lead to spray entering the filter strip. The overlap of the buffer zone PB with the filter strip and the protection zone PA indicates this risk. If the buffer zones PB overlap with the filter strip and / or the protection zone PA, measures can be taken to prevent such overlap.

[0079] Preferably, a spraying process in a target area is recorded. During such a recording, data is captured and stored. The data that is captured and stored preferably includes, for each position of the spraying device in the target area, the prevailing wind direction and the spray nozzles that dispense spray at that position. Further data that can be captured and stored includes the speed of movement of the spraying device (present at each position of the spraying device), application parameters (which spray is dispensed in what quantity and how), distances to protection zones, the size and shape of buffer zones, and / or the like.

[0080] By recording and storing the data, the spraying process can be documented, making it possible, for example, to demonstrate to an authority that, as a result of the dynamic drift control according to the present invention, the risk of drift in a protection zone was effectively minimized at any time during an application process.

[0081] Furthermore, the user of the spraying device can, for example, see which quantities of spray were applied to which locations in the target area. If no spray was applied in an area due to a risk of spray drift, or less spray was applied than intended, the user can decide whether to apply spray to this area at a later time, for example when wind conditions have changed, or whether to take alternative measures. It is also conceivable that the areas where no spray was applied, or where too little spray was applied, could be automatically flown to by one or more drones and / or visited by one or more robots in order to take measures in these areas to compensate for the lack of spray application or the insufficient application.

[0082] It is also conceivable that, based on the collected and stored data, the consequences of non-application and / or insufficient application will be examined in order to adapt future application processes accordingly. It is conceivable that areas where too little or no spray was applied will not be sprayed in the future because spraying is no longer worthwhile. It is also conceivable that an area where too little or no spray was applied will be treated with more spray and / or a different spray in a subsequent application.

[0083] It is also conceivable that an optimized route for spraying the agent is determined on the basis of the recorded and stored data, whereby the optimization can be carried out with regard to various target variables, such as short application time, short distances, small size of sub-areas in which no application takes place and / or the like.

[0084] It is also conceivable that an optimized route is determined based on one or more wind sensors before and / or during the application process. For example, if the wind is favorable at the start of the application process, allowing application close to a protection zone without the risk of drift, the computer system according to the invention can suggest a route in which application near the protection zone is carried out first. It is also conceivable to adapt the route to changing wind conditions during the application process in order to spray the largest possible portion of the target area.

[0085] Fig. 19 schematically shows an embodiment of the computer system according to the invention. The computer system (20) comprises a receiving unit (21), a control and computing unit (22), and an output unit (23).

[0086] The computer system (20) can be operated via the receiving unit (21), i.e. commands and / or information can be entered via one or more input means (e.g. keyboard, mouse, microphone, touchscreen and / or the like). Furthermore, the receiving unit (21) receives information on the position of one or more spray devices and / or spray nozzles from one or more positioning units (13) via one or more networks or directly, by cable and / or radio. Furthermore, the receiving unit (21) receives information on the direction of one or more air movements (e.g. wind) and optionally on the speed of the air movement(s) from one or more air movement sensors (14) via one or more networks or directly, by cable and / or radio.

[0087] The control and computing unit (22) is configured to determine buffer zones based on the data as described in the present description and to check whether one or more buffer zones overlap with one or more corresponding protection zones. In the event of an overlap, the control and computing unit (22) is configured to cause the output unit (23) to output one or more signals that lead to a change in application parameters. It is conceivable that the signals are transmitted directly to components (SK) for dispensing spray agent (e.g. valve, pump and / or the like) and / or to a separate control unit (30) for dispensing spray agent, which in turn then controls the components (SK).

[0088] Information can also be output to a user of the computer system via the output unit (23) (e.g. via a monitor, a printer, a loudspeaker and / or the like).

[0089] The computer system (20) can be connected to a data storage device (40) for storing information on application processes (e.g., for documentation purposes). The data storage device (40) can be a component of the computer system (20) and / or connected to it via one or more networks.

[0090] It is conceivable that there is more than one receiving unit, more than one control and computing unit, more than one output unit and more than one data storage unit.

[0091] The computer system (20) can be part of the spray device according to the invention or independent of it.

[0092] The computer system (20) is configured by the computer program product according to the invention to carry out the tasks described in this description.

Claims

1. Method comprising the steps of: - applying a spray product (SM) in accordance with defined application parameters in a target area (TA) by means of a spray apparatus (1), wherein the spray apparatus (1) comprises at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4), wherein the target area (TA) comprises at least one non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3), and / or borders at least one non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) and / or is located in a vicinity of at least one non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3), wherein each non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) present is characterized by a minimum distance (D, D1, D2, D3) which at least must be observed when applying the spray product, - during the application: o determining a direction (W) of an air movement, o determining a position of the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4), o for each non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) present: ascertaining a buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) corresponding to the non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3), wherein the corresponding buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) extends from the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4) in the direction (W) of the air movement, wherein the corresponding buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) has an extent in the direction (W) of the air movement that correlates with the minimum distance (D, D1, D2, D3), o checking whether there is an overlap between the at least one non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) and its corresponding buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4), o in the event of an overlap: adapting application parameters to prevent the overlap, - continuing the application using the adapted application parameters.

2. Method according to Claim 1, wherein the spray apparatus (1) comprises a plurality of spray nozzles (S, S1, S2, S3, S4), wherein separate buffer zones (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) are ascertained for groups of spray nozzles (S, S1, S2, S3, S4) and / or for individual nozzles.

3. Method according to either of Claims 1 and 2, wherein, in addition to the direction (W) of the air movement, an air movement velocity is determined and the extent of the buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) in the direction of the air movement (W) correlates with the air movement velocity.

4. Method according to any of Claims 1 to 3, wherein the buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) has the form of a polygon.

5. Method according to any of Claims 1 to 4, wherein the step of ascertaining a buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) corresponding to the non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) comprises the following substeps: - ascertaining a wetting area (WA, WA1, WA2, WA3, WA4) - displacing the wetting area (WA, WA1, WA2, WA3, WA4) in the direction (W) of the air movement by a defined amount - ascertaining an area which is swept during the displacement - setting the area as the buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4).

6. Method according to Claim 5, wherein the wetting area (WA, WA1, WA2, WA3, WA4) has a circular, elliptical, polygonal or linear form.

7. Method according to Claim 5, wherein the wetting area (WA, WA1, WA2, WA3, WA4) corresponds to a standstill wetting area.

8. Method according to any of Claims 1 to 7, wherein the air movement is wind.

9. Method according to any of Claims 1 to 8, wherein at least one air movement-independent buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) is ascertained, the extent of which, starting from the position of the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4), corresponds at least to the width (B) of a filter strip, wherein, during the application, a check is made as to whether the one air movement-independent buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) overlaps with the filter strip and / or with a non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) bordering the filter strip and, in the event of an overlap, the application parameters are altered.

10. Method according to any of Claims 1 to 9, wherein the application parameters are selected from the group: type and form of the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4), number of spray nozzles (S, S1, S2, S3, S4) used, arrangement of the spray nozzles (S, S1, S2, S3, S4), spray pressure, exit velocity of the spray product (SM) from the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4), type of spray product (SM) and / or movement velocity of the spray apparatus (1).

11. Method according to any of Claims 1 to 9, wherein the step of adapting application parameters to prevent the overlap implies one or more of the following measures: - stopping or interrupting the application - stopping the exit of spray product (SM) from one or more spray nozzles (S, S1, S2, S3, S4) - altering the opening of the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4) - altering the spray pressure of the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4) - using a different spray nozzle or a plurality of different spray nozzles - changing the movement velocity of the spray apparatus (1) - changing the movement direction (P) of the spray apparatus (1) - changing the spray product (SM).

12. Spray apparatus (1) comprising: - means for moving the spray apparatus (1) in or over a target area (TA), wherein the target area (TA) comprises at least one non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3), and / or borders at least one non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) and / or is located in a vicinity of at least one non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3), - at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4), - means for delivering spray product (SM) via the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4), - means for determining the position of the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4) in the target area, (TA), - a sensor (14) for ascertaining a direction (W) of an air movement, - a control and processing unit (22), wherein the control and processing unit (22) is configured to continually determine the position of the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4) in the target area (TA) during the application of spray product (SM) in accordance with defined application parameters, to continually receive measurement data relating to the direction (W) of the air movement, characterized in that - each non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) present is characterized by a minimum distance (D, D1, D2, D3) which at least must be observed when applying the spray product, the control and processing unit (22) is further configured to ascertain, on the basis of the position and the received measurement data for each non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) present, a corresponding buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4), wherein the corresponding buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) extends from the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4) in the direction (W) of the air movement, wherein the corresponding buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) has an extent in the direction (W) of the air movement that correlates with the minimum distance (D, D1, D2, D3), and the control and processing unit (22) is further configured to check whether there is an overlap between the at least one non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) and its corresponding buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4), and, in the event that there is at least one overlap, to alter the application parameters in such a way that there is no longer any overlap.

13. Computer system (20) comprising • a receiving unit (21) • a control and processing unit (22) and • an output unit (23) - wherein the control and processing unit (22) is configured to cause the receiving unit (21) to continually ascertain a position of at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4) on a spray apparatus (1) in a target area (TA), wherein the target area (TA) comprises at least one non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3), and / or borders at least one non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) and / or is located in a vicinity of at least one non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3), wherein the spray apparatus (1) moves in or over the target area (TA) and applies spray product (SM) in accordance with defined application parameters via the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4), - wherein the control and processing unit (22) is configured to cause the receiving unit (21) to continually receive a direction (W) of an air movement, characterized in that - each non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) present is characterized by a minimum distance (D, D1, D2, D3) which at least must be observed when applying the spray product, - the control and processing unit (22) is configured to ascertain, on the basis of the position of the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4) and the direction (W) of the air movement for each non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) present, a corresponding buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4), wherein the corresponding buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) extends from the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4) in the direction (W) of the air movement, wherein the corresponding buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) has an extent in the direction (W) of the air movement that correlates with the minimum distance (D, D1, D2, D3), and - the control and processing unit (22) is configured to check whether there is an overlap between the at least one non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) and its corresponding buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4), and, in the event that there is at least one overlap, to alter the application parameters in such a way that there is no longer any overlap, or to cause the output unit (23) to output one or more signals which lead to a change in the application parameters, so that there is no longer any overlap.

14. Computer program product comprising a computer program which can be loaded into a main memory of a computer system (20) according to Claim 13 and there causes the computer system (20) to execute the following steps: - ascertaining a position of at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4) on a spray apparatus (1) in a target area (TA), wherein the target area (TA) comprises at least one non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3), and / or borders at least one non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) and / or is located in a vicinity of at least one non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3), wherein the spray apparatus (1) moves in or over the target area (TA) and applies spray product (SM) in accordance with defined application parameters via the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4), wherein each non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) present is characterized by a minimum distance (D, D1, D2, D3) which at least must be observed when applying the spray product, - receiving a direction (W) of an air movement, - for each non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) present: ascertaining a corresponding buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) on the basis of the position of the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4) and the direction (W) of the air movement, wherein the corresponding buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) extends from the at least one spray nozzle (S, S1, S2, S3, S4) in the direction (W) of the air movement, wherein the corresponding buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) has an extent in the direction (W) of the air movement that correlates with the minimum distance (D, D1, D2, D3), - checking whether there is an overlap between the at least one non-target zone (PA, PA1, PA2, PA3) and its corresponding buffer zone (PB, PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4), - in the event that there is at least one overlap: outputting one or more signals which lead to an alteration of the application parameters, so that there is no longer any overlap.