A magical XR experience with an umbrella device to make people grow fond of the rain.
National Tsing Hua University LumiSound XRLab
About
Mahōo is an XR experience exploring the link between nature and emotions, inspired by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and mixed feelings about rain. Using a custom umbrella-like device and VR, it reimagines rain as a source of vitality, promoting mental health awareness and a deeper connection with the environment.
The Project title "Mahōo" is a combination of the English word "magic" and the Taiwanese word for "rain" (hōo), while also being a homophone of the Japanese word for "magic"
This fusion of languages and meanings reflects the essence of the experience—blending magic and rain to create a unique and immersive journey.
（まほう）.
Five to Eight minute experience experience
Participants begin on a dim, rain-soaked street. Picking up the umbrella and stepping into a puddle transports them to a vibrant fantasy realm with a playful gnome-like guide. Using the umbrella—appearing as a giant flower in VR—they gather clouds, summon rain, make flowers bloom, and dance joyfully. Returning to the rainy street,, they find the once-gloomy street now lined with blooming flowers, symbolizing rain’s power to nurture life.
Three Innovation Features
XR Experience with an Interactive Umbrella Device
Mahōo utilizes a WEMOS LOLIN D32 ESP32 board, powered by a 3.7V lithium battery, to collect real-time bending data via a flex sensor on the umbrella’s frame. The data is transmitted via WebSocket to Unity, synchronizing the physical umbrella with its virtual counterpart, a blooming flower. The handle integrates off-the-shelf modules, 3D-printed parts, and a modified transparent umbrella, with ultra-fine enameled wires minimizing visual distraction and enhancing immersion.
Narrative Driven by Interactions with Virtual Character
Mahōo’s story unfolds through interactions with a playful gnome, guiding players to spin the umbrella to gather clouds, open and close it to summon rain, make flowers bloom, and dance in the downpour. Each task deepens the narrative, turning raindrops into symbols of life and magic. Future plans include optimizing motion detection for two-way interaction, enhancing immersion. By blending interactive storytelling with engaging design, Mahōo encourages participants to reconnect with nature while celebrating rain as a life-giving, magical force.
Multisensory Experiences and Fantasy Elements to Help People Embrace the Rain
Through multisensory experiences and fantasy elements, Mahōo transforms rain into a source of wonder. The playful umbrella design lets users control the rain in a virtual world, enhanced by chiming sounds, vivid visuals, and interactive feedback. By reshaping perceptions, it helps children who fear gloomy weather see rain as an opportunity for exploration and growth, rather than discomfort. Mahōo reimagines rainy days, shifting them from symbols of melancholy to emblems of life and vitality.
Feedback from experiencers
“A heartwarming tale of childlike wonder and humanistic insight, filled with warmth and delicate finesse—leaving you deeply moved.”
——Professor of Art and Technology
“Participants can intuitively and authentically experience and control the sensations of different stages of rainfall.”
——Professor of Computer Science
“Waving the umbrella feels like casting a spell—effects change instantly, making it super fun!”
——Graduate Student from National Tsing Hua University
“This device makes rain fun! Interacting with the gnome shows that rain isn’t so bad—it’s a vital part of our world and a great experience.”
——Graduate Student from National Tsing Hua University
CHUEH-FU YU
Team Leader
Graduate student at NTHU GIAT, passionate about tech-art and anthropology, dedicated to blending new media with interdisciplinary knowledge. Also skilled in visual design, VR creation, and field research.
Our Team
BO-YU TSENG
JEN-FANG CHEN
Team Member
Team Member
Graduate student at GIAT, National Tsing Hua University. Skilled in tailoring, pattern making, 3D modeling, and installation design. Bo-Yu explores innovative possibilities by experimenting with various materials.
Chen is a set and sound designer specializing in theatre, dance, and various types of performances. Recently, actively engaged in sound art and contemporary music composition.
YI-CHUN KO
Supervisor
Director of LumiSound XRLab; passionate about sound, virtual art, and interdisciplinary research; dedicated to crafting immersive experiences that inspire creativity and connection.
Contact us
Location
Graduate Institute of Art and Technology, College of Arts, National Tsing Hua University
No.521, Nanda Rd., East Dist., Hsinchu City 30014, Taiwan (Nanda Campus Second Student Activity Center 3F)
Contact Information
Call: +886 0978215112
Email: mahooxr@gmail.com
Business Hours
Monday to Friday
9:00 am to 5:00 pm
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