Recent developments in human assistive systems and wearable robots have led to a number of exciting ideas and innovations toward improvements in quality of life and rehabilitation services for the human subjects. Wearable robots including powered lifting devices that aid human operators in manipulating heavy loads and rehabilitation exoskeletons result in a physical contact between the operator and machine, thus creating a coupled dynamic system. The successful integration of such devices requires sound understanding of the coupled dynamic, estimation of human intention, and control of the coupled system. Challenges also span areas such as physiology, psychology, neuroscience, and medicine. The primary objectives of this invited session are to identify challenges and opportunities in the design and control of human assistive systems and wearable robots, and to promote a discussion among participants. The workshop will explore the long-term perspective of robotics research in the area of health care, biological systems, and rehabilitation, and at the same time will consider mid-term applications. Speakers who are actively working in this area will discuss potentials of the field, and the new opportunities and challenges.

• Exoskeleton robots and power-assisting devices
• Robot-assisted diagnostic and therapeutic procedures
• Haptic device design, control, and stability analysis
• Physiological and psychological analysis of human-robot interaction
• Sensors and actuators for wearable devices
• Human safety mechanisms
• Augmentation of motor and sensory functions
• Rehabilitation robotics