Safety of Wireless Power Transfer
James C. Lin
Abstract
Wireless power transfer (WPT) systems are developed to provide electric power either directly or via battery-charging. The optimism on WPT technology is driven by the ubiquity of cellphones, laptops, and mobile communication devices. Aside from not having to plug in a cellphone or laptop, WPT battery charging offers the potential for mobile devices to get electrical power the same way they get data through harvesting ambient electromagnetic radiation. The dream is a truly wireless mobility scenario with tether-free electric power for cellphones, laptops, appliances, and transportation systems. Beyond wireless communication, the electromagnetic power required for large-scale commercial WPT implementation is substantial. A key facet of the system design and research should include consideration of health effects and safety of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation.