International Journal of Science, Engineering and TechnologyAuthors: Prasanjeet Malla, Soumya Ranjan Pradhan, Nilesh Yadav, Pankaj Mali, Dr. Nithya A.
Abstract: Virtual reality (VR) technologies offer very effective and appealing means for the conservation and display of cultural heritage through engaging and interactive experiences. This article introduces the creative and technical aspects of the Virtual Reality Museum, a project implemented in Unity 3D with the help of the XR Interaction Toolkit. The system allows VR device-free access through the XR Device Simulator, and combines software architecture elements such as gesture-controlled movement, user- identification-enabled information panels, audio- visual exhibits, and an admin workflow for content management. Monument 3D models of very high fidelity were conceived with the Blender and photogrammetry suite of tools and then further developed for real-time rendering. The framework via the prototype expands the cultural heritage portfolio and indulges the user in interactive learning while opening up the horizon to the addition of more than one exhibit as per the scaling facility. The core contributions of the paper comprise the following: (i) the VR design and innovations that are adaptable to cultural scenarios, (ii) the scripting of modular functionalities (such as InfoPanelController and ProximityHotspot) for the realization of a seamless flow of contextual interactions, experiments demonstrating the efficacy of controlled movement stably occurring in Play Mode, and, further, the suggestive evidence of learning efficacy through the mere presence of multimedia. The authors plan to make widespread exhibit deployment, publishing via WebXR to make it more accessible, adding gesture and voice interactivity, and the combination of cloud-based content management with AI. The design of the system in its entirety demonstrates the potential of VR to become a practical means of the preservation of culture and understanding through the bridge created by technical, educational, and heritage preserving fields.
