Safety of Wireless Power Transfer

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.