Automatic optimization strategy for the design of circular multipolar magnets

This paper presents an optimization procedure for the design of circular ma gnets of multipolar symmetry in the presence of an iron screen. The procedu re is based on the combined use of field calculations and optimization tech niques and can be applied when the field is generated either by a distribut ion of currents or of magnetic materials. The numerical optimization techni que uses the positions and/or orientations of the field generating elements as parameters (currents or permanent magnets). The technique has proved to be very effective in obtaining a good uniformity of field in a large fract ion of the magnet volume. It should reduce the subsequent shimming operatio ns. The method is almost completely automatic and simpler than other standa rd methods normally used to design new magnet geometries which are based on field calculation programs and 'manual' optimization procedures.