Challenge _by Firms

Smart Poles in Digital Access Networks _By FIBERCOP

22/09/2025 - 09/01/2026

BACKGROUND

Utility poles are a widespread infrastructure that covers the entire national territory and are used when burying cables is too costly or not feasible due to topographical reasons.
The poles deteriorate over time, leading to service disruptions and safety risks. FiberCop, which manages Italy’s leading digital network infrastructure, is focused on expanding and optimizing its ultra-broadband network, already covering over 95% of active lines and connecting 40% of homes via FTTH. The current challenge is to develop innovative, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions to monitor, reinforce, or replace the poles supporting the fiber network. Students are invited to propose smart technologies and efficient management models to improve the network’s resilience and minimize environmental impact.

CHALLENGE

The goal of the challenge is to:

  • Develop a low-cost IoT system for monitoring the health status of wooden poles, using low-power wireless sensors;
  • Include specific sensors such as humidity sensors, accelerometers, and acoustic sensors to detect rot, instability, and internal degradation;
  • Transmit the collected data via low-energy technologies to a cloud platform;
  • Analyze the data using algorithms to identify variations and critical anomaly signals, improving the timeliness of maintenance interventions;
  • Ensure energy autonomy;
  • Improve pole safety to prevent service disruptions and reduce structural risks.

Clik here for the syllabus!

Download the pdf to discover if your degree programme recognizes you curricular or extra curricular credits for this challenge.

Active challenge


Challenge _by Students

Inclusion by Technology _By Politecnico di Torino and Hackability

23/02/2026 - 06/06/2026

BACKGROUND Innovation and technology offer effective solutions to the challenges of contemporary society. In Italy, the ageing population requires a radical rethink of products and services through an accessible approach [...]


Challenge _by Firms

AI for Business: Innovating for Tomorrow_By Reply

22/09/2025 - 09/01/2026

BACKGROUND Artificial Intelligence is transforming industries and creating new opportunities. Through large language models, multi-modal generation, natural language processing, and data synthesis, AI is revolutionizing all sectors: from enhancing customer [...]


Challenge _by Firms

Engineer a Kinetic installation for an Airport _By LEVA

22/09/2025 - 09/01/2026

BACKGROUND Leva is an engineering company that designs complex mechatronic systems to connect people, brands, and spaces, fostering engagement and exploration in immersive environments. By combining innovative engineering, new entertainment [...]