I doubt that this concept is new. It seems likely that fighters through the ages were trained with similar combinations. By standing just out of hitting distance, they can safely make blade contact and work on technique. Drilling with period-weight blades may also develop better control for competing with epee blades. While I agree with the use of epee blades for several, I also would not discourage novices from using foil blades.
New fencers lack control.
It may also be worth the compromise to allow epee-style underarm protectors, or plastrons under the doublets. This would reduce the bulk of a full jacket under the doublet, be less expensive, and still provide adequate padding for chest and the upper sword arm. It is a detailed look at the three main fencing manuals published in England and attempts to recreate some idea of the overall style of swordplay during this period. The authors' goal is to encourage stage combat styles that are much more historically based than many portrayals to-date.