How to Build a 3D Chatbot with ChatGPT & ElevenLabs

Introduction

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to create an AI-powered 3D chatbot using ChatGPT and ElevenLabs. This project involves developing a full-stack application, which consists of both frontend and backend components. We will use technologies such as React for the frontend and Node.js/Express for the backend. Additionally, we will include details on setting up your 3D avatar and integrating realistic animations, facial expressions, and lip-syncing features.

Project Overview

The project will be composed of two main repositories: one for the frontend (using React) and one for the backend (using Node.js/Express). Let's begin by cloning the frontend repository, installing dependencies, and running it locally.

Setting Up the Frontend

To set up the frontend:

Clone the frontend repository.
Install the dependencies using yarn and run the development server with yarn dev.
You should see an avatar on your screen, complete with blinking animations and various settings for adjusting its expressions and animations.

Creating a 3D Avatar

For our 3D avatar, we'll use Ready Player Me, which allows easy integration of avatars. Follow these steps:

Create a Ready Player Me account and design your avatar.
Download your avatar as a GLTF file.
Ensure that your avatar supports morph targets for animation.

Morph targets help animate facial expressions, which are integral for realism in your chatbot. To enable them:

You will need to modify the URL of the avatar model to include appropriate morph targets for Oculus and ARKit.

Asset Management with Mixamo

In addition to the avatar, you will use Mixamo to create animations:

Login or create an account on Mixamo.
Convert your downloaded GLB avatar file to FBX format using Blender.
Import various animations into Blender to combine them before exporting as a GLB file.

Working with Facial Expressions

When creating facial expressions:

Utilize the morph target feature by adjusting them within the setup mode.
Save the parameters of your desired expressions and integrate them into your avatar component.

Backend Development with OpenAI and ElevenLabs

To create an intelligent chatbot, you must set up the backend to communicate with OpenAI for generating responses and ElevenLabs for synthesizing voice:

Clone the backend repository and install its dependencies.
Set up environment variables to store your OpenAI and ElevenLabs API keys.
Create an Express API that handles chat requests and triggers responses from ChatGPT.

Within the backend code:

When user input is received, request responses from OpenAI's API.
Generate audio responses using ElevenLabs and create lip sync data for the avatar based on the output.

Testing Your Chatbot

Once everything is connected, test your chatbot’s functionality:

Send a sample message.
The avatar should animate, change expressions, and synthesize speech accordingly.

Keyword

3D Chatbot
ChatGPT
ElevenLabs
Avatar Creation
Morph Targets
Voice Synthesis
Animation
Lip Syncing
Full Stack Application

FAQ

Q: What technologies are used to build the 3D chatbot?
A: The 3D chatbot is built using React for the frontend and Node.js/Express for the backend, along with APIs from OpenAI and ElevenLabs.

Q: How do I create a 3D avatar?
A: You can create a 3D avatar using Ready Player Me, which provides an easy way to design and download avatars compatible with your application.

Q: What are morph targets used for?
A: Morph targets are used to animate facial expressions on the avatar, enabling realistic interaction with users.

Q: How does the chatbot generate audio responses?
A: The chatbot uses the ElevenLabs API to convert text responses from ChatGPT into speech audio.

Q: Can I customize facial expressions and animations?
A: Yes, you can customize facial expressions and include various animations by adjusting morph targets and integrating additional animations from Mixamo.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be well on your way to developing an engaging and lifelike 3D chatbot that impresses users with its interactivity and realism. Happy coding!