MetaAim

What it does

MetaAim is a VR-compatible bow grip that allows equipped archers to train at home without needing a range. Designed to replicate the feeling of real shooting, this project makes practice more accessible through an immersive virtual experience.

Your inspiration

I practiced archery at a regional competition level for 4 years. It was a true passion and gave me balance. I had to stop due to distance (40 km to the range) and a busy study schedule. I still had my equipment, but without a target, space, or safe conditions, I couldn’t train anymore. Frustrated, I was inspired by cycling home-trainers and games like Wii Sports to design a solution. MetaAim was born from this gap: a VR bow grip that lets archers continue practicing from home—so no one has to give up their passion because of logistics

How it works

MetaAim limbs attach to an archer’s handle using a universal mounting system (ILF type), compatible with most handle models. An elastic band connects the two limbs, simulating the bowstring. Its tension is adjustable via a dial, allowing archers to customize resistance. A bearing located on the lower limb captures the draw movement and sends data to a microcontroller, which transmits it directly to the VR software. No hand controllers are needed; movements are automatically tracked. The user shoots standing, holding their own handle with accessories (sight, stabilizer…), preserving the weight, gestures, and feel of real archery. The system is designed for quick assembly and disassembly, easing transport and fitting various bows. This device also enables training at home without a physical target, making archery accessible in limited spaces.

Design process

I approached MetaAim as a technical and sports-focused design object, meant to integrate with the archer’s real equipment. The need identified: enabling realistic training at home, without target or arrow. I started with research into existing simulators and the limitations faced by urban archers. Three prototypes shaped the process. The first explored the feasibility of an elastic-based system. The second introduced adjustable tension to adapt resistance. The final version consists of two universal limbs (ILF-compatible), designed to fit most risers, with a compact built-in adjustment mechanism. Feedback from archers helped refine the ergonomics and motion accuracy. The physical model is now complete. Next steps involve integrating electronics, developing the VR environment, and designing an intuitive user interface.

How it is different

MetaAim stands out by allowing archers to train at home using their actual riser, thanks to interchangeable limbs that follow the ILF universal mounting standard. Unlike VR games or archery simulators that use controllers or simplified equipment, MetaAim provides a realistic draw feeling via an adjustable elastic tension system, with haptic feedback and audio cues. This ensures a precise, immersive experience for archers who want to train their form and technique—not just play a game. The modular design respects the weight and balance of a real bow, enabling users to keep their stabilizers, sights, or clickers in place. Designed with input from active archers, MetaAim is not just a concept: it’s a thoughtful training solution for those who can’t easily access a practice range due to distance or lack of space. Born from personal experience and frustrations, it aims to bridge the gap between physical archery and digital practice—without compromising on realism

Future plans

The next steps for MetaAim involve completing the development of the virtual reality software and integrating the electronics to accurately capture the bow’s movements. I also aim to design an intuitive user interface that allows easy customization of settings and performance tracking. Once the physical prototype is finalized, user testing with archers will be conducted to gather feedback and improve comfort, accuracy, and overall experience. In the long term, the goal is to commercialize MetaAim as an accessible training solution, especially for urban or remote archers, and to promote a new practice blending sport and immersive technology.

Awards