Construction of UE4 model and virtual experience technology for Qiang ethnic architectural environment based on...

Area of Science:

• Computer Science
• Virtual Reality
• Cultural Heritage Preservation

Background:

• Modernization poses challenges to the protection and inheritance of traditional Qiang ethnic architecture.
• Virtual environments offer a novel approach to showcasing and experiencing cultural heritage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize the A* algorithm for enhanced path planning in virtual environments.
• To improve the virtual display and cultural inheritance of Qiang ethnic architecture.

Main Methods:

• Adaptive strategies, including reverse optimization and reward value diffusion, were used to optimize the A* algorithm.
• Unreal Engine 4 (UE4) was employed for high-precision modeling and rendering of the Qiang architectural environment.

Main Results:

• The improved A* algorithm demonstrated significantly lower mean response times (0.35s–0.50s) compared to other algorithms.
• Navigation accuracy reached 95.3%–96.3% with minimal error, alongside reduced rendering time and memory usage.
• The optimized algorithm enhances user engagement, interest, and immersion in virtual environments.

Conclusions:

• The improved A* algorithm offers efficient path planning and navigation for virtual cultural heritage applications.
• This technology provides robust support for the virtual display and preservation of the Qiang ethnic architectural environment.
• Enhanced user immersion and reduced waiting times contribute to a more engaging virtual cultural experience.