Research on the Display of Material Cultural Heritage with the Use of VR Animation: A Case Study of the Carved Stone Generals in Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum

In order to meet most viewers desire for realizing “a visit from a long distance” and accomplish the breakthrough of limitations in traditional cultural relics display, the carved stone generals in Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum are taken as the subject of this case study, aiming to carry out research on strengths of VR animation in terms of material cultural heritage display. Combined with the literature and pictures, the Maya and Zbrush digitally restored the carved stone generals in Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum. UE4 realizes the construction of the scene and the output of the final effect. Compared with the traditional cultural relics display, the biggest advantage of VR animation display is that it is not restricted by the region, and can be viewed on the VR device anytime and anywhere. At the same time, the results of the questionnaire survey show that most viewers are satisfied with the display results of VR animation in the material heritage, and the true restoration of the scene construction and good interactive functions are the key points to increase the viewer's experience.