Completely Wireless Epee
There are a number of wireless scoring systems on the market. None of them are perfect since there are always compromises to be made during the design and development process. However, one thing the majority suffer from is high cost, putting them beyond the reach of individuals and many clubs.
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My objective was to produce the lowest cost solution for wireless epee fencing, whilst keeping as many of the features you expect from a modern electronic scoring system as possible.
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After many years of design and development the result is the Plugin. As the name suggests, the device plugs directly into the epee socket, eliminating the need for body wires and spools.​​​​
Plugins
The Plugin achieves as close to 100% guard and piste hit detection as can be realistically measured, whilst maintaining tolerance to high levels of sweat. The two Plugins communicate with each other to decide which is awarded the hit. The result is displayed on both Plugins at the same time with internal LEDs and a buzzer, eliminating the need for central display unit.
The Plugins meet the FIE timing requirements for epee.
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No setup or calibration is required. Simply turn on the Plugins, insert directly into the epees, touch guards and then fence. When you have finished, remove the Plugins and they will automatically turn off.
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The Plugins have a rechargeable Li-Ion battery, which is enough for over 10 hours or 2500 hits. The cases have a 3D printed core and two outer plates CNC machined from solid Polycarbonate, which ensures they can withstand multiple direct hits.
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There is no realistic limit to the number of Plugin sets that can be operated at the same time. To date, 12 sets have been used at the same time without any issues.
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The Plugin can also be used in the new CWF Socketed plastic epee. Please refer to the Completely Wireless Plastic page for details of this exciting new product.
Multiple pairs of Plugins can be linked together allowing for team fencing. In this version of team fencing, all members of one team fence all members of the other team at the same time, not sequentially as with traditional team fencing. This adds an exciting new aspect to fencing and is greatly enjoyed by fencers of all ages. When used with metal epees, the fencing area is restricted for safety reasons. When used with plastic epees, the fencing area can be as large as you like.​​
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Like all wireless systems, the Plugin has some disadvantages. Firstly, it is currently only available for epee. Secondly, hits to uninsulated parts of the mask (ie chipped paint) may not register since they are detected as guard hits. It was not possible to resolve this problem without effecting the guard/piste hit performance, and since guard/piste hit performance is more important for epee, this issue remains.​​​​​​
​Repeater Relay
The Repeater Relay duplicates the results shown on the Plugins. It can either be handheld by the referee/coach, or connected to your existing wired scoring box.​​​​
Sets
The Plugins and Repeater Relay are available in sets, which include a storage case. There is a socket on the side of the case to check for wear and tear on the pins. Each set includes three spare Plugin pins.
CWES2-2​
This set comprises two Plugins and a storage case. The Repeater Relay can be purchased at a later date and added to the set.
CWES2-3​
This set comprises two Plugins, a Repeater Relay and a storage case.