Extending 3D-GIS District Models and BIM-Based Building Models into Computer Gaming Environment for Better Workflow of Cultural Heritage Conservation

Research on cultural heritage conservation has shifted from emphasizing the digital information process with the advantages of precision and visualization in the early stage to focusing on the development of realistic and highly experiential gamified interactive environments. As game technology provides a highly interactive experience, effective communication, and an integrated environment, it brings new application opportunities for the future development of the reconstruction of historical blocks and cultural spaces. This study takes the old city blocks and historic buildings in Taiwan as examples, applies ArcGIS and SketchUp as the information modeling software, uses the Unity3D game engine as the development platform, and carries out the integration and interactive presentation of the scene information model through the two-stage process of information modeling and programming integration. The historical building information model and 3D-GIS attribute data are integrated, and the visibility and interaction of the information model of the old city blocks are enhanced. Using game technology to optimize the digital integration process of cultural asset not only simplifies the integration of multiple information models and provides two-way updates, but also effectively enhances the interaction and display application capabilities of historic district and building space information. The development tasks that were completed in this research are (1) integrate historical building models and 3D-GIS attribute data; (2) get all the necessary visual information; (3) update historical buildings and historic district models and data at any time; (4) provide virtual reality simulation function and environmental interaction experience.

Automated summary

Research on cultural heritage conservation has shifted towards developing gamified interactive environments, focusing on real experiences and highly interactive communication. Using game technology enhances visibility and interaction of historical block information models, simplifying integration and providing virtual reality simulation functions for historic district and building spaces.