some device or smt...

ok, could someone please explain, even in simple english words, what the hell this is:
разработка фиксатора уколов для фехтования на рапирах
i got this picture form a google search
http://expo.tatar.ru/file/%D1%84%D0%B5%D1%85%D1%82.jpg
but not being a fencer, have no idea what the thing does!
also while im at it, this sentence fails to make sense to me
Это государственная поддержка молодых компаний, нужны научные гранды
presumably the fledgling companies are in need of this научные гранды, but the translation of гранды makes no contextual sense. am i missing smt?
thanks all!

фиксатор уколов is something like a 'sting/stab detector' of some sort, although I'm not sure.

Quote:

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Это государственная поддержка молодых компаний, нужны научные гранды

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It doesn't make much sense. It looks like there are two different sentences that are independent from each other:
1. It's a state support of immature companies.
2. Scientific grants are needed. (And the word грант is written with 'т', not 'd'). Possibly, a mistake in original.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Ramil

фиксатор уколов is something like a 'sting/stab detector' of some sort, although I'm not sure.

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Yes, it's a device that cofirms a successful hit (stab) in foil fencing. The picture you provided shows a new wireless mobile "фиксатор". As far as I know old "wired" devices are still used in the professional fencing - a wire goes to the device on the referee table (fencers look like they are on the leash).

fencing sensors, you learn something new everyday with russian :D
thanks for clearing that up guys!