The Vallauri Institute of Fossano at the 2026 Rome Maker Faire
Date of the event:
Students from the Vallauri Institute of Fossano took part in the Rome Maker Faire, an international event dedicated to innovation held from 23 to 25 October 2026, presenting three projects developed in the school's workshops. The initiative involved the Mechanics and Mechatronics course of the institute, based in Fossano, in the Province of Cuneo.[1]
The projects presented
The institute was represented by three students, two from the Mechanics-Energy course and one from Mechanics-Mechatronics, accompanied by teachers Alberto Garnero and Gerardo Mazzotta. Among the works on display was Sunbike, a pedal-assisted tricycle fitted with a solar-powered system: the vehicle's canopy holds a photovoltaic panel connected to an electronic system that manages the battery. The project was developed by reusing parts from old bicycles, aiming to combine sustainable mobility with the circular economy.[1]
Alongside Sunbike, the group also brought to Rome an exoskeleton for upper-limb rehabilitation and a radio-controlled car, both built in the institute's workshops. The process, which involved students from the design of technical solutions to the assembly of the mechanical and electronic parts, made use of technologies such as 3D printing and material reuse.[1]
Visibility and feedback
The Vallauri stand drew the attention of visitors, universities, companies and research institutes. Sunbike was featured in an interview broadcast in prime time by TG1 as part of a report on the event. Headteacher Paolo Cortese said the students staffed the stand throughout all three days of the fair, explaining their projects and talking with visitors, and stressed the importance of being able to engage with international companies and researchers.[1]
Some organisations present at the fair expressed interest in exploring the projects further and considering possible future collaborations.[1]
Sources
- Il Vallauri di Fossano alla Maker Faire di Roma: Sunbike conquista anche il TG1 — Cuneo24, 7 November 2026