Method for assisting a distribution process by means of a distribution tool on a utility vehicle

A method for assisting a distribution process by a distribution tool attached to a utility vehicle, comprising:

• adjusting via a control unit a position of a lower edge of the distribution tool by changing a lifting position of the distribution tool for the purpose of specifying a layer thickness of a material being distributed to be achieved during the distribution process;
• determining via the control unit by a sensor attached to the distribution tool a first distance between the lower edge and a surface region of the material being distributed upstream of the lower edge with respect to a travel direction of the utility vehicle;
• utilizing via the control unit the first distance as a basis for adjusting in at least a partially automated manner the lifting position of the distribution tool in accordance with the layer thickness of the material being distributed to be achieved when the first distance has a value greater than or equal to zero;
• estimating via the control unit a second distance from the lower edge of the distribution tool to the surface region of the material based on the position of the lower edge resulting from the lifting position of the distribution tool;
• and
• utilizing via the control unit the second distance for adjusting in at least a partially automated manner the lifting position of the distribution tool when the first distance has a value of less than zero and the surface region is upstream of the travel direction of the utility vehicle.