This master’s thesis portrays the process of designing and creating a 3D model and placing it into a virtual space. We demonstrate the procedures and methods of computer design with 3D modelling programs as well as setting up a virtual-reality environment for cultural heritage. The theoretical part focuses on the demonstration of various interactive technologies that are available on the market today, their functioning, how they surround us and how they are used in different areas of our everyday lives.
Rome Reborn and Inception, two major cultural heritage projects, are also presented. They strive to achieve a better learning and exploration experience through virtual reality. Their main aim is to provide access to historical sightsregardless of the user's location.
The practical part demonstrates processes of making 3D models so that they are correctly prepared for furtherupgrades within a game engine. The first section focuses on looking for the most suitable modelling workflow that simplifiesthe work process and avoids unwanted difficulties at later stages when creating a virtual environment. Processes for creating materials, interactive elements and light setups are shown within a virtual-reality creation program.
The final part contains digital images of our Roman Domus3D model, as well as a characterisation of the modelling quality, realism of materialsand lighting along with an analysis of a VR walk and the effects ofinteractive elements. An additional .exe program, a virtual walk through the rooms using a mouse and keyboard, also constitutes a part of this thesis.
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