Review on Virtual Reality Technology in Cultural Heritage Protection

Cultural heritage serves as a bridge between the past and the present, holding significant historical, cultural, and educational value. In the face of multiple threats, including natural disasters and human factors, traditional methods of cultural heritage preservation face limitations such as high costs, limited efficiency, and inadequate accessibility. Virtual reality (VR) technology, with its advantages in resilience, immersion, interactivity, and cost-effectiveness, provides innovative solutions for the protection and transmission of cultural heritage. This review summarizes the current state and research progress of VR technology in the field of cultural heritage preservation, focusing on key aspects such as digital acquisition, 3D modeling, interactive design, and virtual exhibition. The paper discusses in detail the research and explorations of VR technology in these areas. Furthermore, the application outcomes of VR technology in practical cultural heritage preservation projects, such as education, serious games, museums, and storytelling, are explored, highlighting its positive impact on enhancing user experience and fostering cultural understanding and communication. Finally, the paper introduces emerging trends in intelligence, interoperability, and adaptability, indicating that VR technology will offer even more innovative possibilities for cultural heritage preservation. Looking ahead, further exploration of new methods and approaches using VR technology in cultural heritage protection is needed to achieve broader societal participation and the dissemination of cultural values.