Digital Heritage Preservation of Religious Artifacts through 3D Modeling and VR

Thesis Abstract

The deterioration and potential loss of religious artifacts due to environmental, human, and technological factors have underscored the urgent need for effective digital preservation strategies within cultural heritage sectors. This study investigates the application of 3D modeling and virtual reality (VR) technologies as innovative solutions for safeguarding and publicly exhibiting religious artifacts, thereby enhancing both preservation and educational engagement. The primary aim is to develop a comprehensive digital framework that captures the morphological and contextual features of religious artifacts and enables immersive virtual experiences for diverse stakeholders, including researchers, educators, and the general public. Specific objectives include evaluating the technological feasibility of high-resolution 3D scanning, designing an interactive VR environment, assessing user perceptions of digital replicas, and establishing a sustainable digital preservation protocol. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study integrates quantitative approaches—such as descriptive statistics, paired-sample t-tests, and regression analysis—to analyze digital fidelity and user experience data, with qualitative methods—including thematic analysis of interview transcripts and focus group discussions—to explore stakeholder perceptions and cultural implications. The population encompasses curators, archaeologists, digital technologists, and artifact visitors across five major religious heritage sites with a combined population of approximately 250 individuals. A stratified random sampling technique selects a sample of 100 participants, ensuring representative diversity across stakeholder groups. Data collection instruments include standardized digital fidelity assessment rubrics, structured questionnaires, semi-structured interview guides, and observation checklists, all validated through expert reviews and pilot testing. The digital artifacts are captured using state-of-the-art laser scanning and photogrammetry, processed via software such as Autodesk ReCap and MeshLab to generate detailed 3D models, which are subsequently integrated into a VR environment developed with Unity 3D engine. Data analysis involves descriptive statistics to summarize digital quality and user feedback, regression analysis to determine factors influencing user engagement, and thematic coding to interpret qualitative insights. The study leverages relevant theoretical frameworks, including the Memory and Heritage Preservation Theory and the Technological Acceptance Model (TAM), to explain attitudes toward digital cultural artifacts and adoption factors of VR technologies. It is anticipated that high-fidelity 3D models will significantly enhance viewers’ perceptions of authenticity and engagement, with VR experiences fostering increased awareness of cultural significance and conservation needs. The findings are expected to demonstrate that integrating 3D modeling with VR not only preserves artifacts digitally but also broadens access and educational outreach, especially in regions where physical access is limited. This research contributes to knowledge by producing a replicable digital preservation framework adaptable across various cultural and religious contexts, advancing understanding of user interaction with digitized heritage and informing best practices for integrating emerging technologies in conservation strategies. The study concludes that technological integration holds substantial potential for safeguarding religious heritage, recommending policy incentives for digital preservation initiatives, capacity building among heritage professionals, and further research into long-term digital storage and replication fidelity. Additional suggestions include exploring augmented reality applications for on-site cultural engagement and extending digital preservation models to lesser-known or endangered artifacts, thereby promoting sustainable and inclusive heritage management.