DIGITAL DESIGN ELEMENTS FOR CULTURAL SYMBOL TRANSLATION IN CHONGQING’S INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE

Abstract

As modern urban development accelerates, cultural heritage faces the risk of disappearing. This study focuses on Chongqing, a key birthplace of China's modern industrial civilization, to urgently protect and revitalize its industrial heritage while driving urban economic growth. Chongqing's industrial heritage, with physical relics and intangible spirits, holds unique values. The research explores how digital technologies can turn these heritage elements into innovative cultural symbols, bridging historical memory and urban development. Using a mixed-methods approach, it maps Chongqing's industrial heritage symbols and their meanings. Digital reconstruction methods like 3D scanning and AR/VR are used to create interactive designs. Findings show digital visualization boosts public engagement, with AR enhancing cultural identity (p < 0.05). Icon designs balance history and modern design. However, challenges exist, such as a 43% cognitive bias between experts and communities in interpreting symbols, and tourists' shallow associations with "industrial memory." Community participation varies, linked to a 20% digital skills training gap. Data security worries and high blockchain costs call for a "government-industry alliance" governance. Digital heritage maintenance costs need innovative financing like "digital heritage carbon credits." In conclusion, digital reconstruction preserves Chongqing's industrial culture and spurs economic growth through cultural products and tourism. The study proposes a "Chongqing model" with a semantic decoding system, intergenerational collaboration, and hybrid financing, integrating authenticity, innovation, and community participation. These insights offer guidance for other industrial cities seeking to balance heritage conservation and urban development.