Communication breakdown: Gaze-based prediction of system error for AI-assisted robotic arm simulated in VR.

Neurological degenerative conditions can affect motor functions, making mobility daunting. Recent configurations of mobility devices that leverage artificial intelligence (AI) show its ability to handle complex information like user input. We create a virtual reality environment to measure participants’ reactions to correct and incorrect feedback from an AI-assistance system. Using gaze to evaluate these reactions, we investigate whether we can automatically predict an upcoming system error. Our results show that gaze reactions occur within 300 ms when the system highlights user input, but the delay extends to 1 second without highlighting. Subject dependent gaze behavior proved complicated for developing a generalizable model based on previous work using TCNs for online recognition of upcoming errors. Therefore, more adaptable models for individuals may be a better alternative for gaze-based accessibility systems.