Continuous Wave Simulations on the Propagation of Electromagnetic Fields Through the Human Head

Abstract

Characterizing the human head as a propagation medium is vital for the design of both on-body and implanted antennas and radio-frequency sensors. The following problem has been addressed: find the best radio-frequency path through the brain for a given receiver position - on the top of the sinus cavity. Two parameters, transmitter position and radiating frequency, should be optimized simultaneously such that 1) the propagation path through the brain is the longest; and 2) the received power is maximized. To solve this problem, we have performed a systematic and comprehensive study of the electromagnetic fields excited in the head by small on-body magnetic dipoles (small coil antennas). An anatomically accurate high-fidelity head mesh has been generated from the Visible Human Project data. The base radiator was constructed of two orthogonal magnetic dipoles in quadrature, which enables us to create a directive beam into the head. We have found at least one optimum solution. This solution implies that a distinct RF channel may be established in the brain at a certain frequency and transmitter location.