Drawing inspiration from butterfly biomechanics research—specifically irregular wing flapping and the ‘flap-stretch’ mechanism—I endeavoured to replicate the dynamic nuances of butterfly flight in VR with 1:1 accuracy. A complex control logic was devised.

While this design theoretically approximates butterfly flight most closely, user testing encountered obstacles: participants found it laborious to learn, experienced arm fatigue within minutes, and focused entirely on ‘maintaining flight’, rendering them unable to properly observe the virtual environment or experience the butterfly's sensory world.

I have deeply integrated this flight logic with visual design: using head movements to steer direction and arm rhythms to generate forward momentum. Approaching flowers triggers special effects like energy particles and flowing light.

Hands, ears, and eyes synchronise in unison, transforming flight from mechanical “movement” into a breathing experience. User testing confirms this approach: learning becomes more intuitive, allowing focus to shift towards observing surroundings and interacting with flowers, while clearly embodying the sensation of “being a butterfly”.

Tactile: The controllers no longer vibrate continuously, but deliver ‘short, crisp, springy vibrations’ when the hands swing downwards, perfectly synchronised with the visual flapping of wings and the sensation of exerting physical force;
Auditory: Replacing ambient wind sounds with wing-flapping audio—each downward swing of the hands is met with a precise ‘flap’ sound at the ears, perfectly synchronised with the motion.

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