Design of split coil magnets for Magnetic Resonance Imaging

A novel method for the design of open configuration magnets for Magnetic Re sonance Imaging (MRI) has been recently set up, The method is based on an i nnovative approach to the genetic optimization algorithms, described in som e detail in an accompanying paper. The method has been applied to the design of open magnet configurations for MRT of parts of the human body, The configurations are optimally designed not only by taking into account field strength and homogeneity, but also lo oking for the most effective current density distribution in terms of super conductor performance, and looking for the most compact assembly. The need for optimal design in terms of superconductor performance is due to the sev ere working conditions in split coil configurations because of the field ma p in the windings, which presents values much higher than the central field .