METHOD AND DEVICE FOR THE TARGETED DELIVERY OF AN ACTIVE AGENT ONTO A FLOOR

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method and a device for the targeted release of an active agent onto soil or earth, in particular onto agricultural land, for the control of plant growth.

[0002] Soils, such as agricultural land and especially arable land, are primarily used for growing plants, for example, crops. However, it can happen that undesirable plant types, such as poisonous plants or weeds, also grow on agricultural land. Chemical and manual methods are known for controlling unwanted plant types. Chemical methods, which in particular involve the use of chemical herbicides, are generally undesirable due to the potential chemical contamination of the soil, groundwater, crops, and / or the environment with the herbicide. Furthermore, manual methods for removing unwanted plant types from agricultural land are very labor-intensive and, in particular, costly and time-consuming.

[0003] Furthermore, DE 10 2015 209891 A1 relates to a device for damaging weeds with a pressure conveying unit which is designed to convey a liquid under pressure, and a liquid delivery unit which is fluidically connected to the pressure conveying unit and is further designed to deliver the liquid under pressure to the weed in order to damage it.

[0004] FR 3 093 614 A1 relates to a collaborative device for controlling the treatment of an agricultural plot, intended to be mounted on an agricultural machine, comprising a set of detectors for weeds or leaf deficiencies or diseases, designed to decide on the control of the treatment equipment of the agricultural plot.

[0005] The IT UA20 164 822 A1 relates to a device for weeding soil by spraying a high-pressure working fluid, wherein the device can be used with a tractor or similar agricultural machine capable of moving forward on the soil in a forward direction, wherein the device comprises at least one tank for the working fluid, at least one high-pressure pump capable of pumping the working fluid at a working pressure of at least 400 bar, and at least one device for spraying the working fluid onto the soil to be weeded.

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to propose a method and a device which make it possible to specifically combat unwanted plant types on soils or areas, in particular agricultural (usable) areas, and to overcome disadvantages of conventional methods.

[0007] This problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

[0008] One aspect of the invention relates to a method for the targeted release of an active agent onto soil or earth, in particular onto agricultural (usable) land, wherein the method comprises the following steps: Moving an active ingredient delivery unit along a direction of movement across the ground, whereby activation of the active ingredient delivery unit results in the release of the active ingredient onto the ground within a limited area of ​​effect; comparing the instantaneous position of the active ingredient delivery unit with location information of a first type of plant occurring on the ground. In a first alternative, the method further comprises: activating the active ingredient delivery unit when the instantaneous position of the active ingredient delivery unit or the area of ​​effect of the active ingredient delivery unit substantially corresponds to the location information of the first type of plant, whereby the release of the active ingredient results in mechanical damage to vegetation located within the area of ​​effect. In a second alternative, the method further comprises: deactivating an activated active ingredient delivery unit when the instantaneous position of the active ingredient delivery unit or the area of ​​effect of the active ingredient delivery unit substantially corresponds to the location information of the first type of plant, whereby the release of the active ingredient results in mechanical damage to vegetation located within the area of ​​effect.The effective range of the active ingredient delivery unit essentially corresponds to the location information of the first plant type.

[0009] Advantageously, the method according to the invention enables unwanted plant growth, which in the first alternative corresponds to the first plant type and is present on the soil or agricultural land, to be selectively and specifically controlled by a physical, in particular mechanical, force effect caused by the active agent. Thus, the control of unwanted plant types can preferably be carried out without chemical methods, for example without the use of chemical herbicides, or by a reduced use of chemical herbicides.

[0010] In the second alternative, the first plant type can be desired vegetation, particularly crops intended for use and / or harvesting. Advantageously, the second alternative allows the active ingredient to be released onto areas between crops that may have undesired vegetation by deactivating the already activated delivery unit, rather than directly onto the crops themselves. Specifically, the delivery unit can be activated while moving along a certain direction and temporarily deactivated when vegetation of the first plant type (desired vegetation) is within its range of action.Advantageously, areas between crops, which are essentially arranged in a row in the direction of movement of the active ingredient delivery unit, can thus be cleared of unwanted plant growth, while the desired plant growth is not controlled by the active ingredient.

[0011] In particular, the active ingredient can be released in such a way that the aboveground part (above the soil or agricultural area) of the plant growth is damaged or destroyed. For example, aboveground leaves and / or flowers of the plant growth can be cut and / or shredded by the active ingredient, severing their connection to the underground part of the plant growth. In other words, the active ingredient has a cutting effect on the plant growth, thereby destroying it. Advantageously, the active ingredient can also be released in such a way that it penetrates the underground part of the plant growth, for example, roots, bulbs, and / or tubers.For example, by damaging and / or destroying the roots, bulbs, and / or tubers of the plant growth, these can be subjected to a biological decomposition process, leading to the death of the plant growth or preventing regrowth. Furthermore, the movement of the herbicide delivery unit can be designed to be essentially horizontal or essentially parallel to the agricultural area. Additionally, the herbicide can be released onto the ground during the movement phase of the delivery unit.

[0012] Within the scope of this disclosure, the term "soil" is understood to mean an area that has at least partial vegetation cover, such as agricultural land, parkland, golf course, railway line, or road. Furthermore, "agricultural land" is understood to mean a field or cultivated area for plants, or even a parcel of such cultivated land. The agricultural land can thus be arable land, grassland, or pasture. The plants can be, for example, crops whose fruit is used agriculturally, such as food, animal feed, or energy crops. Furthermore, the agricultural land can also include undesirable plants, such as weeds, unwanted plants, and grasses. The first type of plant can particularly refer to undesirable plants that can be controlled by the disclosed method.Both the plants and unwanted plants can be part of the agricultural area.

[0013] Furthermore, the term "limited effective area" means that the effective area is significantly smaller than the ground or agricultural area. Preferably, the limited effective area has a width of approximately 5 cm to 50 cm, more preferably 10 cm to 40 cm, and particularly preferably 10 cm to 30 cm transverse to the direction of movement. The length of the effective area in the direction of movement is determined, among other things, by the duration of activation of the active ingredient delivery unit and the speed at which the delivery unit is moved in the direction of movement. Accordingly, a sufficiently long activation of the delivery unit allows for treatment of the entire area of ​​the soil. Preferably, the speed of movement of the delivery unit relative to the ground in the direction of movement is greater than 0 km / h. Particularly preferably, the speed in the direction of movement is approximately...0.5 km / h to 20 km / h, preferably 2 km / h to 10 km / h, and particularly preferably 3 km / h to 6 km / h.

[0014] Advantageously, the limited area of ​​effect allows the first type of plant, or unwanted plant type, to be specifically targeted, thus preventing or minimizing major damage to desired plants in the soil or agricultural area.

[0015] The method provides that the active ingredient is dispensed by the dispensing unit in such a way that the pressure exerted by the active ingredient on the soil is at least 50 N / cm², preferably at least 100 N / cm², and particularly preferably at least 200 N / cm². For the aforementioned value, it is assumed that the active ingredient is dispensed unimpeded from the dispensing unit onto the soil. In other words, there are no obstacles between the dispensing unit and the soil that the active ingredient could encounter, so that the active ingredient comes into direct contact with the soil. Advantageously, at this pressure, sufficient damage to the vegetation affected by the active ingredient can be ensured. The aforementioned pressure value was determined by placing a scale beneath the dispensing unit, onto which the active ingredient was dispensed.The investigation was also conducted excluding crosswinds.

[0016] Preferably, the pressure is at least 310 N / cm² to ensure reliable underground control of plant growth in addition to aboveground control. In particular, roots or bulbs of the plant growth can be at least partially destroyed.

[0017] Advantageously, the proposed pressures allow for sufficient destruction / shredding of the plant growth to enable rapid decomposition and sustainable control of the first type of plant. The specified values ​​have proven particularly effective in controlling autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale). However, these values ​​are not limited to controlling autumn crocus and can also be applied to other (unwanted) plant types.

[0018] Preferably, the duration of the release of the active ingredient onto an area of ​​the vegetation or soil is less than 1 s (second), preferably less than 0.5 s.

[0019] The active ingredient delivery unit is preferably part of an agricultural delivery device, such as a sprayer. The delivery unit can be mounted on or attached to a mobile unit. The mobile unit can be a land vehicle or aircraft, a trailer, or an attachment. In particular, the mobile unit can be an agricultural machine, such as a tractor, a self-propelled or autonomous sprayer, or a self-propelled or autonomous robot. The delivery unit can also be mounted on a hydraulic system of the agricultural machine. It is also conceivable that the delivery unit is mounted on a loading platform of the agricultural machine.Alternatively, the active ingredient delivery unit or device can be attached to the agricultural machinery.

[0020] Preferably, the drug delivery unit has an opening or nozzle through which the drug is dispensed. Furthermore, the drug delivery unit can have a release unit, for example, a pneumatic, electric, or electromechanical valve, which, upon activation, allows the drug to exit or be dispensed through the drug delivery unit or opening / nozzle. In particular, the electric valves can activate a pilot control circuit to enable hydraulic or pneumatic activation of the valve. Furthermore, the drug delivery unit can be associated with a drug container in which the drug is provided. The drug can also be extracted from the drug container and supplied to the drug delivery unit by means of a pump. In particular, the pump can be designed such that the drug is pumped at a pressure of approximately...150 bar to 1200 bar is delivered via the drug delivery unit.

[0021] Advantageously, activating or deactivating the herbicide delivery unit, when its current position essentially corresponds to the location information of the first plant type, allows for the targeted control or sparing of the first plant type, thus ensuring the herbicide is applied sparingly. Location information can be understood as, in particular, a geographical location or a geographical area. Specifically, the herbicide delivery unit can be controlled such that, when moving across the ground or agricultural area, it is activated or deactivated as soon as the location information enters its effective range. Furthermore, it can be configured to deactivate or activate the herbicide delivery unit as soon as the corresponding location information leaves its effective range.In other words, it can be provided that the active ingredient delivery unit is activated or deactivated as long as the area of ​​effect and the location information overlap from a bird's-eye view of the agricultural area.

[0022] Furthermore, the method can provide for the pre-configuration of location information for the first plant type occurring on the soil or agricultural land. For example, one or more geographic coordinates corresponding to the location information of the first plant type can be provided. Preferably, the location information is provided by means of a map, such as a vector-based or raster-based map, which contains the location information in the form of geographic coordinates and / or areas. Alternatively, the location information can be provided by means of an optical analysis of the soil or agricultural land. For example, the soil or agricultural land can be optically surveyed from the air to create one or more images of the soil or agricultural land.One or more images can be evaluated using a computer, for example, with a suitably trained artificial intelligence (AI) model that recognizes the first plant type in the one or more images and provides corresponding location information. These maps can have an accuracy of a few centimeters, for example, 1 to 2 cm. When the treatment unit is moved, its current position can be continuously compared with the location information, preferably by means of a positioning unit, for example, a satellite-based navigation system such as GPS, GLONASS, or Galileo, in order to activate or deactivate the treatment unit accordingly.

[0023] Alternatively, the procedure can provide that, as the herbicide delivery unit moves along the direction of travel, an image acquisition unit captures at least sections of the area of ​​the ground or agricultural land lying in the direction of travel and identifies the first plant type with corresponding location information in the captured data. This location information can further be compared with the current position of the herbicide delivery unit, so that the herbicide delivery unit is activated or deactivated for the duration of its passage over the corresponding vegetation within the delivery area.

[0024] Preferably, both approaches can be combined. This advantageously allows for a comparison of the location information determined by the image acquisition unit with the previously provided location information.

[0025] Furthermore, the location information can also pertain to more than one plant type (the first plant type). In particular, the location information can relate to several different plant types that are to be controlled or not controlled. Preferably, in the first alternative, a different parameter can be defined for each plant type, according to which the active ingredient is released. Advantageously, this allows for individual control of different plant types. Furthermore, different parameters can be assigned to the location information, according to which the active ingredient is released. For example, the release of the active ingredient can be adjusted to be stronger or weaker depending on the size of the plant growth.

[0026] Preferably, the method provides that the active agent is dispensed as a directed liquid jet towards the ground or agricultural area. The liquid jet can consist mainly of a liquid but can also contain solid components, such as solid particles, which can produce an additional abrasive effect.

[0027] Particularly at the aforementioned pressure values ​​of at least 50 N / cm², preferably at least 100 N / cm², especially preferably 200 N / cm², and especially at least 310 N / cm², exerted by the liquid jet, the aboveground part (above the soil or agricultural area) of the vegetation can be damaged or destroyed. For example, aboveground leaves and / or flowers of the vegetation can be cut and / or shredded by the liquid jet, severing their connection to the underground part of the vegetation. In other words, the liquid jet exerts a cutting effect on the vegetation, thereby destroying it. Advantageously, the liquid jet can also penetrate the underground part of the vegetation, for example, roots, bulbs, and / or tubers.Damage and / or destruction of the roots, bulbs, and / or tubers of the plant growth can expose the roots, bulbs, and / or tubers to a biological decomposition process, which leads to the death of the plant growth or prevents its regrowth.

[0028] Preferably, the active agent or liquid jet can be dispensed continuously for the duration that the delivery unit is activated. "Continuous" in this context means that the liquid jet, viewed on a flat surface, travels along a continuous area. For this purpose, the active agent or liquid jet can be dispensed uninterrupted for the duration that the delivery unit is activated. Alternatively, the active agent or liquid jet can be dispensed intermittently, whereby the impact surfaces of the active agent or liquid jet on the surface generated by each two successive dispensings at least partially overlap in order to create or travel along the continuous area. In other words, when the liquid jet is dispensed intermittently, the impact surfaces of the active agent or liquid jet are...the liquid jet of each two successive drug or liquid jet discharges is not spaced apart from each other.

[0029] Furthermore, the duration that the herbicide delivery unit remains active can be controlled based on the duration the first plant type is traversed by the herbicide delivery unit's effective range. In other words, the herbicide delivery unit can be deactivated as soon as no vegetation of the first plant type is present within its effective range. Advantageously, a buffer period can be provided, after which the herbicide delivery unit is deactivated. This buffer period can stipulate that a minimum traversal distance, during which no vegetation of the first plant type is present within the herbicide delivery unit's effective range, must be covered before the herbicide delivery unit is deactivated.

[0030] For the first alternative, it is provided that the active agent or liquid jet is released for at least 100 milliseconds (ms), preferably for at least 120 ms, or that the previously activated active agent delivery unit is deactivated only after at least 100 ms, preferably after at least 120 ms. Advantageously, a minimum activation duration of the active agent delivery unit and its simultaneous movement across the ground allow for a milling and / or cutting effect on the vegetation by the released active agent, in particular the liquid jet. Depending on the movement speed of the active agent delivery unit in the direction of movement (see above), corresponding minimum areas are thus determined onto which the active agent, in particular the liquid jet, is released.

[0031] Preferably, the active ingredient consists mainly of water. Furthermore, it can be provided that the active ingredient contains no chemical or non-biological herbicides. In other words, the active ingredient used is primarily, or preferably exclusively, water, for example, tap water or rainwater. This has the advantage of using a readily available active ingredient and is also well-suited to organic farming practices.

[0032] Preferably, the active ingredient, in particular the liquid, is not (actively) heated before dispensing. That is, the temperature of the active ingredient essentially corresponds to the temperature at the point of dispensing. In particular, the temperature of the active ingredient is less than 60°C, preferably less than 50°C, and most preferably less than 45°C. Advantageously, this eliminates the need for energy-intensive heating of the active ingredient.

[0033] Furthermore, alternatives to water can also be used, such as liquids to which the first type of plant is intolerant, for example, plant oils or urea solutions. In particular, autumn crocus is intolerant to nitrogen, so a urea solution as an active ingredient increases the effectiveness of control measures.

[0034] However, alternative agents are also conceivable, which include, for example, dry ice granules.

[0035] According to the invention, the liquid jet is point-like.

[0036] The shape of the liquid jet refers to its outline as it would be formed on an ideally flat agricultural surface when the velocity of the delivery unit is essentially 0 km / h. "Essentially point-like" means that the outline may also have a slightly oval shape. Advantageously, the chosen liquid jet shape allows the active ingredient or liquid to be concentrated or focused on a specific area.

[0037] The active ingredient delivery unit is designed to subject the liquid jet to an additional movement superimposed on the direction of movement.

[0038] Advantageously, the point-like jet or liquid jet can have a substantially point-like impact area on the agricultural area of ​​approximately 0.01 cm² to 3 cm², preferably of approximately 0.05 cm² to 2 cm², and particularly preferably of approximately 0.1 cm² to 1 cm², wherein the point-like liquid jet is preferably subjected to a rotating motion, so that the impact area of ​​the liquid jet on the agricultural area describes a substantially circular path (assuming that the agricultural area is considered a substantially horizontal plane). The diameter of the circular path essentially determines the effective area transverse to the direction of movement. Preferably, the rotation of the point-like liquid jet is adapted to the movement speed of the active agent delivery unit in such a way that a surface treatment of the soil is achieved. The nozzle orThe opening of the drug delivery unit can have a diameter of approximately 1.15 mm to create the point-shaped liquid jet.

[0039] Preferably, the linear jet or liquid jet produces an impact surface that is narrow and extends transversely to the direction of motion, with a width in the direction of motion between 0.3 cm and 1 cm. In other words, the longitudinal direction of the impact surface runs essentially transversely to the direction of motion. The length of the impact surface can correspond essentially to the width / length of the effective area transversely to the direction of motion. Assuming that the jet strikes a flat surface corresponding to the ground, the impact surface can be considered to be essentially rectangular. Alternatively, the longitudinal direction of the impact surface can run parallel to the direction of motion, and the liquid jet is moved back and forth transversely to the direction of motion within the effective area.

[0040] Furthermore, the planar liquid jet can have an impact area with a width in the direction of motion of approximately 1 cm to 5 cm. The length of the impact area can essentially correspond to the width / length of the effective area perpendicular to the direction of motion. Assuming that the jet strikes a flat surface corresponding to the ground, the impact area can be considered to be essentially rectangular.

[0041] Preferably, the method can provide that the active agent exits the active agent delivery unit at a velocity of approximately 100 m / s to 350 m / s, preferably of approximately 150 m / s to 300 m / s, and particularly preferably of approximately 200 m / s to 250 m / s.

[0042] The method provides that the active ingredient is dispensed by the active ingredient dispensing unit at approximately 5 l / min to 20 l / min, preferably at approximately 12 l / min to 17 l / min, and particularly preferably at approximately 13 l / min to 15 l / min.

[0043] Advantageously, the use of a liquid jet allows plant residues separated from and / or shredded from the vegetation to be transported or washed away by the liquid. Consequently, contamination of harvested crops by remaining residues of unwanted plants can be reduced. In particular, it has been observed that a satisfactory transport and / or flushing effect is achieved when a discharge of at least 0.16 l / m² (l / m²) of liquid, preferably at least 0.25 l / m², particularly preferably 0.4 l / m², and especially 0.45 l / m², is applied to the area treated during activation of the active ingredient delivery unit.

[0044] Preferably, the method can provide that the active ingredient is released from the active ingredient delivery unit at a delivery height relative to the soil or agricultural area, wherein the delivery height is approximately 10 cm to 50 cm, preferably approximately 15 cm to 35 cm, and particularly preferably approximately 20 cm to 30 cm.

[0045] In other words, the nozzle or opening from which the active ingredient exits the active ingredient delivery unit is located approximately 10 cm to 50 cm, preferably approximately 15 cm to 35 cm, and particularly preferably approximately 20 cm to 30 cm above the agricultural area.

[0046] Preferably, the method can further include the following step: setting the dispensing height, preferably before the moving step, and wherein the dispensing height is preferably maintained substantially during the moving step.

[0047] Advantageously, maintaining the same application rate allows for compensation of uneven ground on agricultural land, ensuring consistent control of plant growth.

[0048] Preferably, the method can provide for the use of a plurality of individual active agent delivery units, which have overlapping areas of effect. Advantageously, the overall area of ​​effect can be increased by using a plurality of active agent delivery units. Preferably, the plurality of active agent delivery units can be arranged side by side transversely to the direction of movement. In particular, the plurality of active agent delivery units can be arranged transversely to the direction of movement at the same height.

[0049] Advantageously, the delivery height for each individual active ingredient delivery unit can be individually adjustable, and the delivery height of each active ingredient delivery unit can be essentially maintained during the movement step, preferably independently of the other active ingredient delivery units. Preferably, more than one and / or a maximum of 20 active ingredient delivery units can be used per meter of working width transverse to the direction of movement. Furthermore, a working width of at least one meter can be provided. The working width can also preferably be a maximum of 12 m. However, the invention is not limited to this working width, and larger working widths can also be provided.

[0050] Another aspect of the invention relates to a device for the targeted release of an active agent onto soil or earth, in particular onto agricultural (usable) land, comprising: an active ingredient delivery unit designed to be moved across the ground along a direction of movement, wherein the active ingredient delivery unit is activatable and, by activating the active ingredient delivery unit, the active ingredient is released onto the ground in a limited area of ​​effect, and wherein the active ingredient delivery unit is designed such that the release of the active ingredient causes mechanical damage to vegetation located within the area of ​​effect.

[0051] Advantageously, the device according to the invention enables unwanted plant growth, corresponding to the first type of plant and present on the soil or agricultural land, to be selectively and specifically controlled by a physical, in particular mechanical, force effect caused by the active agent. Thus, the control of unwanted plant types can preferably be carried out without chemical methods, for example without the use of chemical herbicides, or with a reduced use of chemical herbicides.

[0052] In particular, the active ingredient can be dispensed by the delivery unit in such a way that the aboveground part (above the soil or agricultural area) of the plant growth is damaged or destroyed. For example, aboveground leaves and / or flowers of the plant growth can be cut and / or shredded by the active ingredient, severing their connection to the underground part of the plant growth. In other words, the active ingredient exerts a cutting effect on the plant growth, thereby destroying it. Advantageously, the active ingredient can also be dispensed in such a way that it penetrates the underground part of the plant growth, for example, roots, bulbs, and / or tubers.For example, by damaging and / or destroying the roots, bulbs, and / or tubers of the plant growth, it can be ensured that the roots, bulbs, and / or tubers are subjected to a biological decomposition process, which leads to the death of the plant growth or prevents regrowth. Furthermore, it can be stipulated that the movement of the active ingredient delivery unit is essentially horizontal and / or parallel to the agricultural area.

[0053] Preferably, the limited effective area has a width of approximately 5 cm to 50 cm, more preferably 10 cm to 40 cm, and particularly preferably 10 cm to 30 cm transverse to the direction of movement. The length of the effective area in the direction of movement, on the other hand, is determined by the duration of activation of the active agent delivery unit and the speed at which the delivery unit is moved in the direction of movement. Preferably, the speed of movement of the delivery unit relative to the ground in the direction of movement is greater than 0 km / h. Preferably, the speed in the direction of movement is approximately 0.5 km / h to 20 km / h, more preferably 2 km / h to 10 km / h, and particularly preferably 3 km / h to 6 km / h.

[0054] Advantageously, the limited area of ​​effect allows the first type of plant to be targeted and major damage to desired plants on the agricultural land to be prevented or minimized.

[0055] The active ingredient is dispensed by the dispensing unit in such a way that the pressure exerted by the active ingredient on the ground is at least 50 N / cm², preferably at least 100 N / cm², and particularly preferably at least 200 N / cm². For the aforementioned value, it is assumed that the active ingredient is dispensed unimpeded from the dispensing unit onto the ground. In other words, there are no obstacles between the dispensing unit and the ground that the active ingredient could encounter, so that the active ingredient comes into direct contact with the ground. Advantageously, at this pressure, sufficient damage to the vegetation affected by the active ingredient can be ensured. The aforementioned pressure value was determined by placing a scale beneath the dispensing unit, onto which the active ingredient was dispensed. The determination was furthermore carried out excluding crosswinds.

[0056] Preferably, the pressure is at least 310 N / cm². Advantageously, at this pressure, reliable underground control of plant growth can be achieved in addition to aboveground control. In particular, roots or bulbs of the plant growth can be at least partially destroyed.

[0057] Advantageously, the proposed pressures allow for sufficient destruction / shredding of the plant growth to enable rapid decomposition and sustainable control of the first type of plant. The specified values ​​have proven particularly effective in controlling autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale). However, these values ​​are not limited to controlling autumn crocus and can also be applied to other (unwanted) plant types.

[0058] Preferably, the duration of the release of the active ingredient onto an area of ​​the vegetation or soil is less than 1 s (second), preferably less than 0.5 s.

[0059] The device or active ingredient delivery unit according to the invention is preferably part of an agricultural active ingredient delivery device, such as a spraying device. The device or active ingredient delivery unit according to the invention can, in particular, be arranged on or attached to a mobile unit. The mobile unit can be designed as a land vehicle or aircraft and / or trailer and / or mounted implement. The mobile unit can, in particular, be an agricultural machine, e.g., a tractor, a self-propelled or autonomous field sprayer, or a self-propelled or autonomous robot. The active ingredient delivery unit or active ingredient delivery device can also be mounted on a hydraulic device of the agricultural machine. It is also conceivable that the active ingredient delivery unit or active ingredient delivery device can be mounted on a hydraulic device of the agricultural machine.The active ingredient delivery device is mounted on the loading platform of the agricultural machine. Alternatively, the active ingredient delivery unit or device can be attached to the agricultural machine.

[0060] Preferably, the drug delivery unit has an opening or nozzle through which the drug is dispensed. Furthermore, the drug delivery unit can have a release unit, for example, a pneumatic, electric, or electromechanical valve, which, when activated, allows the drug to exit or be dispensed through the drug delivery unit or opening / nozzle. In particular, the electric valves can activate a pilot circuit to enable hydraulic or pneumatic activation of the (drug) valve. The drug delivery unit can also be associated with a drug container in which the drug is stored. The drug can also be pumped from the drug container to the drug delivery unit.

[0061] The device has a control unit designed to: The system compares the current position of the herbicide delivery unit with location information of a first plant type occurring on the soil or agricultural area. The system then activates the herbicide delivery unit if its current position substantially corresponds to the location information of the first plant type, or deactivates an activated herbicide delivery unit if its current position substantially corresponds to the location information of the first plant type. In the first alternative, the first plant type corresponds to an undesirable plant type, and in the second alternative, to a desired plant type. Accordingly, the second alternative ensures that desired plants, such as crops, are not affected by the herbicide and that the herbicide is only released onto sections / areas between desired plants.

[0062] Advantageously, activating the herbicide delivery unit when its current position essentially corresponds to the location information of the first plant type allows for targeted control of that plant type and thus the economical use of the herbicide. In other words, the herbicide is not released over a large area. Location information can be understood as, in particular, a geographical location or a geographical area. Specifically, the herbicide delivery unit can be controlled such that, when moving the unit across the ground or agricultural area, it is activated as soon as the location information enters its effective range. Furthermore, it can be configured to deactivate the herbicide delivery unit as soon as the corresponding location information leaves its effective range.In other words, it can be provided that the active ingredient delivery unit is activated as long as the area of ​​effect and the location information overlap when viewed from a bird's-eye perspective of the agricultural area.

[0063] Furthermore, it can be provided that the location information of the first plant type occurring on the soil or agricultural land is generated in advance and then stored in the control unit. For example, one or more geographic coordinates can be provided corresponding to the location information of the first plant type. Preferably, the location information is provided using a map, such as a vector-based or raster-based map, which contains the location information in the form of geographic coordinates and / or areas. Alternatively, the location information can be provided using an optical analysis of the soil or agricultural land. For example, the soil or agricultural land can be optically surveyed from the air to create one or more images of the agricultural area.One or more images can be evaluated using a computer, for example, with a suitably trained artificial intelligence (AI) model that recognizes the first plant type in the one or more images and provides corresponding location information. These maps can have an accuracy of a few centimeters, for example, 1 to 2 cm. When the treatment unit is moved, the control unit can continuously compare its current position with the location information, preferably using a positioning unit such as a satellite-based navigation system like GPS, GLONASS, or Galileo, in order to activate or deactivate the treatment unit accordingly.

[0064] Alternatively, the procedure can provide that, as the herbicide delivery unit moves along the direction of travel, an image acquisition unit captures at least sections of the area of ​​the ground or agricultural land in the direction of travel and identifies the first plant type with corresponding location information in the captured data. This location information can further be compared with the current position of the herbicide delivery unit, so that the herbicide delivery unit is activated for the duration that it passes over the corresponding vegetation within its effective range.

[0065] Preferably, both approaches can be combined. This advantageously allows for a comparison of the location information determined by the image acquisition unit with the previously provided location information.

[0066] Furthermore, the location information can also pertain to more than one plant type (the first plant type). In particular, the location information can pertain to several different plant types that are to be controlled. Preferably, a different parameter can be defined for each plant type, according to which the active ingredient is released. Advantageously, this allows for individual control of different plant types. Furthermore, different parameters can be assigned to the location information to determine the release of the active ingredient. For example, the release of the active ingredient can be adjusted to be stronger or weaker depending on the size of the plant growth.

[0067] Preferably, the active agent delivery unit can be designed to deliver the active agent as a directed jet, in particular a liquid jet, towards the ground or agricultural area. The liquid jet can consist mainly of a liquid but can also contain solid components, for example, solid particles, which can produce an additional abrasive effect.

[0068] Advantageously, the directed jet allows for targeted application of the active ingredient. In particular, the active ingredient is primarily dispensed vertically downwards towards the agricultural area by the delivery unit.

[0069] Preferably, the active ingredient consists mainly of water. Furthermore, it can be provided that the active ingredient contains no chemical or non-biological herbicides. In other words, the active ingredient used is primarily, or preferably exclusively, water, for example, tap water or rainwater. This has the advantage of using a readily available active ingredient and is also well-suited to organic farming practices.

[0070] According to the invention, the liquid jet is point-like.

[0071] The shape of the liquid jet refers to its outline as it forms on an ideally flat agricultural surface. "Essentially point-like" means that the outline may also have a slightly oval shape. Advantageously, the chosen liquid jet shape allows the energy of the jet to be concentrated on a narrowly defined area, thus enabling high intensities. Advantageously, the delivery unit can be designed to subject the liquid jet to an additional motion superimposed on its direction of movement.

[0072] Advantageously, the point-like liquid jet can have a substantially point-like impact area on the agricultural area of ​​approximately 0.01 cm² to 3 cm², preferably of approximately 0.05 cm² to 2 cm², and particularly preferably of approximately 0.1 cm² to 1 cm², wherein the point-like liquid jet is preferably subjected to a rotating motion, so that the impact area of ​​the liquid jet on the agricultural area describes a substantially circular path (assuming that the agricultural area is considered to be a substantially horizontal plane). The diameter of the circular path essentially determines the effective area transverse to the direction of movement. Preferably, the rotation of the point-like liquid jet is adapted to the movement speed of the active agent delivery unit such that a surface treatment of the soil is achieved. The nozzle or...The opening of the drug delivery unit can have a diameter of approximately 1.15 mm to create the point-shaped liquid jet.

[0073] Preferably, the linear jet of liquid produces an impact surface that runs narrowly perpendicular to the direction of movement, with a width between 0.3 cm and 1 cm.

[0074] Furthermore, the planar liquid jet can have an impact area with a width in the direction of movement of approximately 1 cm to 5 cm. In other words, the longitudinal direction of the impact area runs essentially perpendicular to the direction of movement. Alternatively, the longitudinal direction of the impact area can run parallel to the direction of movement, and the liquid jet is moved back and forth perpendicular to the direction of movement within the area of ​​effect.

[0075] Preferably, the drug delivery device can be designed such that the drug exits the drug delivery unit at a speed of approximately 100 m / s to 350 m / s, preferably of approximately 150 m / s to 300 m / s, and particularly preferably of approximately 200 m / s to 250 m / s.

[0076] The drug delivery device is designed to deliver the drug at a flow rate of approximately 5 l / min to 20 l / min, preferably at approximately 12 l / min to 17 l / min, and particularly preferably at approximately 13 l / min to 15 l / min.

[0077] Preferably, the device can be configured to release the active agent from the active agent delivery unit at a delivery height relative to the agricultural area, wherein the delivery height is approximately 10 cm to 50 cm, preferably approximately 15 cm to 35 cm, and particularly preferably approximately 20 cm to 30 cm.

[0078] In other words, the nozzle or opening from which the active ingredient exits the active ingredient delivery unit is located approximately 10 cm to 50 cm, preferably approximately 15 cm to 35 cm, and particularly preferably approximately 20 cm to 30 cm above the ground or the agricultural area.

[0079] Preferably, the device is designed to adjust the delivery height. Furthermore, the device can include a guide mechanism associated with the active ingredient delivery unit, which keeps the delivery height essentially constant while the active ingredient delivery unit is moved across the agricultural area. Advantageously, maintaining the delivery height compensates for unevenness in the agricultural area, thus ensuring consistent weed control.

[0080] Preferably, the device can have a plurality of individual active agent delivery units, which preferably have overlapping effective areas. However, the effective areas of the active agent delivery units can also be adjacent to or separated from one another and thus not overlap. Advantageously, the overall effective area can be increased by using a plurality of active agent delivery units. Preferably, the plurality of active agent delivery units can be arranged side by side transversely to the direction of movement. In particular, the plurality of active agent delivery units can be arranged transversely to the direction of movement at the same height.

[0081] Advantageously, the dispensing height for each individual active ingredient delivery unit can be individually adjustable, and the dispensing height of each active ingredient delivery unit can be essentially maintained during movement of the active ingredient delivery units, preferably independently of the other active ingredient delivery units. Preferably, more than one and a maximum of 20 active ingredient delivery units can be used per meter of working width transverse to the direction of movement.

[0082] Furthermore, the device can be designed to exhibit features of the aforementioned aspect, in particular the second alternative.

[0083] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the drawing. To this end, we show Figure 1 a device arranged on a mobile unit for the targeted delivery of an active agent onto a floor; Figure 2 a schematic representation of a method for the targeted delivery of an active agent onto a soil; Figure 3 a map with location information for a first type of plant; Figure 4 an enlarged view of the Fig 5 ; Figure 5 an impact surface of a point-like jet, in particular a liquid jet; Figure 6 an impact surface of a linear jet, in particular a liquid jet; and Figure 7 an impact surface of a planar jet, especially a liquid jet.

[0084] Figure 1 Figure 10 shows a tractor 10 as a mobile unit, on the front of which a movable carrier unit 12 is arranged. Furthermore, a plurality of active agent delivery units 14 are arranged on the movable carrier unit 12 (in the direction of view of the Figure 1The system consists of multiple delivery units 14 (one after the other) that can be moved across a surface or agricultural area 15 by means of the tractor 10. Each delivery unit 14 can be individually controlled or activated by a control unit 22 to release an active agent in the form of a jet 16, in particular a liquid jet, onto the surface or agricultural area 15. The jet 16 delivers the active agent to the agricultural area 15 within a limited area of ​​effect. Furthermore, a reservoir 20 is arranged at the rear of the tractor 10, in which the active agent, preferably a liquid, for example water, is stored. A first pump unit 17, also located at the rear of the tractor 10, can pump the active agent from the reservoir 20 to a second pump unit 18. The second pump unit 18 can pump the active agent to the delivery units 14 at a sufficiently high pressure.In particular, the second pump unit 18 can be configured such that the active agent is dispensed via the active agent delivery unit 14 at a pressure of approximately 150 bar to 1200 bar. Furthermore, the storage tank 20, the first pump unit 17, the second pump unit 18, and the active agent delivery unit 14 are connected to each other by corresponding hydraulic lines 19. Each active agent delivery unit 14 can have a nozzle or opening through which the active agent is dispensed in the direction of the ground or the agricultural area 15. The active agent delivery unit 14 can also have an electric or electromechanical valve 21, which can be activated or controlled by the control unit 22, so that the active agent can be dispensed by means of the active agent delivery unit 14.Furthermore, a return valve (not shown) can be provided between the second pump unit 18 and the valve 21, which can return the active agent to the reservoir 20. In particular, the return valve can be controlled so that it is open when the active agent delivery unit 14 is not activated and closed when the active agent delivery unit 14 is activated. Advantageously, the pressure in the hydraulic circuit between pump 18 and valve 21 can thus be reduced when the active agent delivery unit 14 is not activated.

[0085] It is intended that the active agent is dispensed by the dispensing unit 14 in such a way that the pressure exerted by the active agent on the soil 15 is at least 50 N / cm², preferably at least 100 N / cm², and particularly preferably at least 200 N / cm². For the aforementioned value, it is assumed that the active agent is dispensed unimpeded from the dispensing unit 14 onto the soil 15. In other words, there are no obstacles between the dispensing unit 14 and the soil 15 that the active agent could encounter, so that the active agent comes into direct contact with the soil. Advantageously, at this pressure, sufficient damage to the vegetation affected by the active agent can be ensured. The aforementioned pressure value was determined by placing a scale beneath the dispensing unit, onto which the active agent was dispensed.The investigation was also carried out excluding crosswinds.

[0086] Preferably, the pressure is at least 310 N / cm². Advantageously, at this pressure, reliable underground control of plant growth can be achieved in addition to aboveground control. In particular, roots or bulbs of the plant growth can be at least partially destroyed.

[0087] Advantageously, the proposed pressures allow for sufficient destruction / shredding of the plant growth to enable rapid decomposition and sustainable control of the first type of plant. The specified values ​​have proven particularly effective in controlling autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale). However, these values ​​are not limited to controlling autumn crocus and can also be applied to other (unwanted) plant types.

[0088] Preferably, the duration of the release of the active ingredient onto an area of ​​the vegetation or soil is less than 1 s (second), preferably less than 0.5 s.

[0089] Furthermore, the movable carrier unit 12 can have an adjustment mechanism 30 with which the height of the carrier unit 12 above the ground or the agricultural area 15 can be adjusted. In particular, the adjustment mechanism 30 can be used to simultaneously adjust the height of all active ingredient delivery units 14. Each active ingredient delivery unit 14 can also have a separate height adjustment, so that the height of each active ingredient delivery unit 14 above the agricultural area 15 can be set separately. By adjusting the height, the delivery height of the active ingredient, i.e., the distance between the nozzle or opening from which the active ingredient is released and the agricultural area 15, is set.

[0090] Preferably, the delivery height can be approximately 10 cm to 50 cm, more preferably approximately 15 cm to 35 cm, and most preferably approximately 20 cm to 30 cm.

[0091] Furthermore, the movable carrier unit 12 has an associated guide device 24 for each active ingredient delivery unit 14, each guide device having a wheel 26 that contacts the agricultural area 15. Each guide device 24 also has a parallelogram-shaped frame 28 that mechanically connects the wheel 26 to the movable carrier unit 12. The parallelogram-shaped frame 28 is movably mounted on the movable carrier unit 12 to transfer uneven ground to the respective associated active ingredient delivery unit 14. In particular, the frame 28 allows the active ingredient delivery unit 14 to move vertically (essentially perpendicular to the ground 15) relative to the carrier unit 12. Advantageously, this allows the active ingredient delivery unit 14 to be moved across the agricultural area 15 at a substantially constant delivery height.Furthermore, the movable carrier unit 12 can have a main wheel 32, which supports the movable carrier unit 12 against the agricultural area 15. Alternatively, the carrier unit 12 can have a distance sensor with which the distance to the ground is preferably determined without contact. Based on the determined distance, the delivery height of the active ingredient delivery unit 14 can be kept constant or adjusted during movement by means of a suitable actuating device, e.g., an actuator.

[0092] Referring to Figure 2 The use of the drug delivery unit 14 is explained below. Figure 2 Figure 15 shows a bird's-eye view of a schematically represented agricultural area. Furthermore, the boxes arranged perpendicular to the direction of movement B represent the limited effective area 34 of a respective active ingredient delivery unit 14. Figure 4Thus, twelve drug delivery units 14 are shown. Preferably, the limited effective area 34 has a width of approximately 5 cm to 50 cm, more preferably 10 cm to 40 cm, and particularly preferably 10 cm to 30 cm transverse to the direction of movement B. The length of the effective area 34 in the direction of movement B is determined, among other things, by the duration of the activation of the drug delivery unit 14 and the speed at which the drug delivery unit 14 is moved in the direction of movement B. Preferably, the speed of movement of the drug delivery unit 14 relative to the ground in the direction of movement is greater than 0 km / h. Preferably, the speed of movement in the direction of movement is approximately 0.5 km / h to 20 km / h, more preferably 2 km / h to 10 km / h, and particularly preferably 3 km / h to 6 km / h.

[0093] Furthermore, in Figure 2Location information 36 is recorded, marking the occurrence of a first plant type to be controlled with the herbicide. While the carrier unit 12 or the herbicide delivery units 14 are moving across the agricultural area 15 along the direction of movement B, the control unit 22 compares the instantaneous position information of the herbicide delivery units 14 with the location information 36. The instantaneous position information can be acquired via an antenna 23, which can receive a position determination signal, e.g., GPS. Preferably, the antenna 23 is arranged horizontally at the same height as the herbicide delivery units 14 to simplify the position determination of the herbicide delivery units 14.If the effective area 36 of an active ingredient delivery unit 14 substantially corresponds to the location information 36, the control unit 22 activates the corresponding active ingredient delivery unit 14 to release the active ingredient onto the agricultural area 15 via the directed jet or liquid jet 16. The active ingredient is released by the active ingredient delivery unit 14 in such a way that it causes mechanical damage to the vegetation present in the effective area 36. In other words, the active ingredient mechanically combats the vegetation within the effective area 36 of the corresponding active ingredient delivery unit 14, i.e., by shredding / cutting / shredding the vegetation. Light boxes 36 indicate that the respective active ingredient delivery unit 14 is deactivated, i.e., not releasing any active ingredient, and dark boxes 36 indicate that the active ingredient delivery unit 14 is activated, i.e., the active ingredient is being released.As in . Figure 2 As shown, the active ingredient delivery units 14 are arranged side by side transversely to the direction of movement B in order to increase the overall effective area accordingly. The effective areas of adjacent active ingredient delivery units 14 can overlap. After the location information 36 has preferably passed directly over the effective area 34, the control unit 22 deactivates the corresponding active ingredient delivery unit 14. Alternatively, the first plant type can correspond to a desired plant type that is not to be controlled. For this purpose, the control unit 22 can deactivate an activated active ingredient delivery unit 14 to prevent active ingredient delivery to the desired plant type.

[0094] In the Figures 3 and 4A schematic vector-based map is shown, which can be stored in control unit 22. This vector-based map contains location information regarding the first plant type, i.e., the plant type to be controlled by the herbicide. This location information can represent individual geographic coordinates and / or areas or regions where the herbicide is to be applied (see in particular [reference]). Figure 4 , which the in Figure 3 (marked section enlarged).

[0095] As mentioned at the outset, the active agent delivery unit 14 is designed to deliver a directed jet or liquid jet 16 in the direction of the agricultural area 15. Upon impact with the agricultural area 15, which is assumed to be an idealized plane, the liquid jet 16 creates a corresponding impact surface 40.

[0096] In Figure 5The impact area 40 of a point-like liquid jet is shown in an idealized form. The impact area of ​​the point-like liquid jet can be approximately 0.01 cm² to 3 cm², preferably approximately 0.05 cm² to 2 cm², and particularly preferably approximately 0.1 cm² to 1 cm². Furthermore, the impact area 40 can be substantially point-like. The active agent delivery unit 14 can also be arranged to rotate on the movable carrier unit 12 such that the impact area 40 moves along a substantially circular path 42 (circular if the active agent delivery unit 14 is not moving). The diameter of the circle formed by the circular path 42 corresponds to the width of the limited effective area 34 transverse to the direction of movement B.

[0097] In Figure 6The impact surface 40 of a linear liquid jet, which can be generated by the drug delivery unit 14, is also depicted. The longitudinal direction of the impact surface 40 is essentially perpendicular to the direction of movement B. Furthermore, the impact surface 40 has a width between 0.3 cm and 1 cm. The impact surface has an essentially rectangular shape.

[0098] Furthermore, it Figure 7 The impact surface 40 of a planar liquid jet 16, which can be generated by the active agent delivery unit 14, is represented. The longitudinal direction of the impact surface 40 is essentially transverse to the direction of movement B. Furthermore, the impact surface 40 has a width between 1 cm and 5 cm. The impact surface has an essentially rectangular shape.

[0099] The in the Figure 6 and 7 The examples shown do not represent embodiments of the invention.

[0100] Furthermore, it can be provided that the active agent exits the active agent delivery unit at a speed of approximately 100 m / s to 350 m / s, preferably of approximately 150 m / s to 300 m / s, and particularly preferably of approximately 200 m / s to 250 m / s.

[0101] Furthermore, the active ingredient can be dispensed through the active ingredient dispensing unit 14 at a flow rate of approximately 5 l / min to 20 l / min, preferably at approximately 12 l / min to 17 l / min, and particularly preferably at approximately 13 l / min to 15 l / min. Moreover, the nozzle or opening of the active ingredient dispensing unit 14, from which the active ingredient emerges, is inclined essentially perpendicular to the agricultural area 15. Reference symbol list

[0102] 10 Mobile unit / tractor 12 Movable carrier unit 14 Agent delivery units 15 Agricultural area / soil 16 Agent jet / liquid jet 17 First pump unit 18 Second pump unit 19 Hydraulic line 20 Storage container 22 Control unit 23 Antenna 24 Guidance device 26 Wheel 28 Frame construction 30 Adjustment mechanism 32 Main wheel 34 Limited effective area 36 Location information 40 Impact area 42 Circular path B Direction of movement

Claims

1. A method for targeted delivery of an active agent to vegetation on the soil (15), in particular on an agricultural area, wherein the method has the following steps: Moving an active agent delivery unit (14) along a direction of movement (B) over the soil (15), wherein, by activating the active agent delivery unit (14), the active agent is delivered as a punctiform stream of liquid in a limited effective range (34); Comparing a current position of the active agent delivery unit (14) with location information (36) of a first plant type occurring on the soil; and Activating the active agent delivery unit (14) or deactivating an activated active agent delivery unit (14) when the current position of the active agent delivery unit (14) corresponds to the location information (36) of the first plant type, wherein delivery of the punctiform stream of liquid causes mechanical damage to vegetation located within the effective range (34), characterized in that the active agent delivery unit (14) subjects the punctiform stream of liquid to a movement that is additionally overlaid on the direction of movement (B) and delivers the stream of liquid such that the pressure caused by the punctiform stream of liquid on the soil (15) is at least 50 N / cm2 and the stream of liquid is delivered for at least 100 ms and with a flow rate of 5 l / min to 20 l / min.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the active agent has a liquid, in particular water, and preferably contains no chemical herbicides and / or no biological herbicides.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the active agent is delivered as a stream of liquid directed in the direction of the soil (15).

4. The method according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the pressure caused by the stream of liquid on the soil is at least 100 N / cm2, preferably at least 200 N / cm2.

5. The method according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the punctiform stream of liquid (16) has an impact area (40) of approx. 0.01 cm2 to 3 cm2, preferably approx. 0.05 cm2 to 2 cm2, and particularly preferably approx. 0.1 cm2 to 1 cm2, and wherein the punctiform stream of liquid (16) is preferably subjected to a rotating movement.

6. The method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the active agent exits the active agent delivery unit (14) at a speed of approx. 100 m / s to 350 m / s, preferably approx. 150 m / s to 300 m / s, and particularly preferably approx. 200 m / s to 250 m / s; and / or wherein the active agent is delivered by the active agent delivery unit (14) at 12 l / min to 17 l / min, preferably 13 l / min to 15 l / min; and / or wherein the active agent is delivered from the active agent delivery unit (14) at a delivery height in relation to the soil (15) and the delivery height is approx. 10 cm to 50 cm, preferably approx. 15 cm to 35 cm, and particularly preferably approx. 20 cm to 30 cm, and wherein the method optionally has the step of: Setting the delivery height, preferably before the moving step, and wherein the delivery height is substantially maintained, preferably during the moving step.

7. The method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the active agent delivery unit (14) has a plurality of individual active agent delivery units (14), which have overlapping effective ranges (34).

8. A device for targeted delivery of an active agent to vegetation on the soil, in particular on an agricultural area (15), having: an active agent delivery unit (14) which is configured to be moved over the soil (15) along a direction of movement (B), wherein the active agent delivery unit (14) is activatable and, by activating the active agent delivery unit (14), the active agent is delivered as a punctiform stream of liquid in a limited effective range (34), and wherein the active agent delivery unit (14) is designed such that delivery of the stream of liquid causes mechanical damage to vegetation located within the effective range (34), and a control unit (22) which is configured: to compare a current position of the active agent delivery unit (14) with location information (36) of a first plant type occurring on the soil (15), and to activate the active agent delivery unit (14) when the current position of the active agent delivery unit (14) substantially corresponds to the location information (36) of the first plant type, or to deactivate an activated active agent delivery unit (14) when the current position of the active agent delivery unit (14) substantially corresponds to the location information (36) of the first plant type, wherein the device is characterized in that the active agent delivery unit (14) is designed to subject the punctiform stream of liquid to a movement that is additionally overlaid on the direction of movement (B), to deliver the punctiform stream of liquid for at least 100 ms and with a flow rate of 5 l / min to 20 l / min, and further to deliver the punctiform stream of liquid such that the pressure caused by the punctiform stream of liquid on the soil (15) is at least 50 N / cm2.

9. The device according to claim 8, wherein the active agent delivery unit (14) is designed to deliver the active agent as a stream of liquid directed in the direction of the soil; and / or wherein the stream of liquid is delivered by the active agent delivery unit such that the pressure caused by the stream of liquid on the soil is at least 100 N / cm2 preferably at least 200 N / cm2.

10. The device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the punctiform stream of liquid (16) has an impact area (40) of approx. 0.01 cm2 to 3 cm2, preferably approx. 0.05 cm2 to 2 cm2, and particularly preferably approx. 0.1 cm2 to 1 cm2, and wherein preferably the active agent delivery unit (14) is configured to subject the punctiform stream (16) to a substantially rotating movement.

11. The device according to one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the active agent exits the active agent delivery unit (14) at a speed of approx. 100 m / s to 350 m / s, preferably approx. 150 m / s to 300 m / s, and particularly preferably approx. 200 m / s to 250 m / s; and / or wherein the active agent delivery unit (14) is designed to deliver the active agent with a flow rate of 12 l / min to 17 l / min, preferably 13 l / min to 15 l / min; and / or wherein the device has a plurality of individual active agent delivery units (14), which have overlapping effective ranges (34).

12. The device according to one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the active agent delivery unit (14) is designed to deliver the active agent from the active agent delivery unit (14) at a delivery height in relation to the agricultural area (15), and wherein the delivery height is approx. 10 cm to 50 cm, preferably approx. 15 cm to 35 cm, and particularly preferably approx. 20 cm to 30 cm.

13. The device according to claim 12, wherein the delivery height can be set, and / or the device has a guide apparatus (24) that is associated with the active agent delivery unit (14) and keeps the delivery height substantially constant while the active agent delivery unit (14) moves over the soil (15).