Scythe updates software for autonomous mower efficiency
Colorado-based autonomous solutions provider Scythe Robotics announced a new software feature for its all-electric M.52 autonomous mower. The new capability, Task Sequences, enables M.52 to move between designated Mow Zones entirely on its own, unlocking even more productivity and workflow continuity on the jobsite.
Designed to reduce downtime and boost operational efficiency, Task Sequences allow contractors to link multiple Mow Zones together using the Scythe mobile app. Once deployed, M.52 completes each Zone in order, driving autonomously from one to the next without manual repositioning by crew members. Contractors can customize settings – such as stripe direction, deck height, and blade speed – for each Zone, save Sequences for reuse, and access them across the crew, directly from the mobile app.
“Task Sequences mark an exciting evolution in how mowing crews deploy robotic mowing in the field,” said Michael Mayberry, senior director of customer success at Scythe. “By automating what was previously a manual step, this feature allows landscape contractors to accomplish more with less disruption, keeping both people and machines focused on delivering excellent results.”
Read more about implementation of autonomous mowers.
That increased efficiency is already being seen in the field. On one multi-zone property, M.52 completed 13 Mow Zones with just three manual touches, a sharp contrast to the 13 separate repositioning moves previously required. With Task Sequences handling the transitions, the crew gained hours of uninterrupted time to complete other tasks on-site, significantly boosting their productivity and reducing downtime.
In addition to connecting Mow Zones directly, the feature introduces Bridge Zones – defined pathways that allow M.52 to safely drive between Zones without mowing them. Whether Zones are adjacent or separated by landscape elements, contractors can map out custom Sequences that maintain mowing precision while ensuring safe, predictable routing. All settings are configurable in the Scythe mobile app and available to any crew member working at the property.
As part of Scythe’s commitment to safety and reliability, Task Sequences are built with additional safety measures. M.52 moves between Zones at a slower navigation speed, automatically raises its deck to avoid low obstacles, and emits a sonar ping to alert nearby pedestrians without startling them. M.52 also avoids No-Go Zones and will stop for any unexpected obstacles, just as it does while mowing.
The Task Sequences feature is currently being rolled out to Scythe pilot customers and will be available to all M.52 contractors later this mowing season. Scythe customers can prepare by downloading the latest version of the Scythe mobile app and working with their Account Manager to train field teams on the new workflow.
