Digital Protection and Utilization of Architectural Heritage Using Knowledge Visualization

Architectural heritage is a lively carrier of historical development, as well as providing a valuable resource for human society. Recently, however, the longevity of architectural heritage has been influenced and even threatened by natural and human factors. Furthermore, the future remains uncertain. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a comprehensive method, namely, digital protection and utilization based on knowledge visualization (DPUKV), to protect and utilize architectural heritage. The most important problem to solve involves transforming digital protection data into a digital inheritance culture. We constructed a technical framework of knowledge acquisition, knowledge reconstruction, knowledge innovation, and knowledge management using qualitative and vertical methods to form hierarchical digital resources of architectural heritage. In particular, the knowledge reconstruction converted tacit knowledge of architectural heritage into explicit knowledge via visualization technology, providing research materials for more scholars. In knowledge innovation, architectural heritage culture was excavated and inherited through knowledge graphs, digital displays, and cultural creation with virtual reality, augmented reality, etc. Furthermore, this method was validated over four years via architectural heritage in China as case studies. In this paper, the buildings of Qinglian Temple in Shanxi, China, are discussed in detail as a case study. The results indicated that this method was effective for preserving architectural heritage and is suitable for other cultural heritage. It is also helpful to improve the public’s protection of and interest in cultural heritage, especially architectural heritage.