Interruptibility Estimation Based on Head Motion and PC Operation

Frequent and uncontrolled interruptions by information systems that do not reflect the user’s state can result in fragmented working times and decreased intellectual productivity. To avoid adverse interruptions, interruptibility estimation methods based on PC operation information have been proposed. However, workers who use PCs to accomplish their primary tasks occasionally engage in paperwork. Occasional paperwork activities, which are not reflected in the PC’s operation information, can cause estimation errors. This study focuses on using the position of the head, posture, temporal motion, and continuity of the head position and posture while a worker is at his or her desk as indices to reflect engagement in the task at hand. Based on an analysis of the relationship between the head-related parameters and interruptibility, an interruptibility estimation algorithm is proposed using four head-related indices that reflect interruptibility during PC and non-PC work. Experiments indicate that estimation accuracy improves as a result of incorporating these indices in the algorithm.