Shape design optimization of the excitation arrangement and superconducting bulks used in magnetic bearings

The paper deals with the design optimization of high temperature superconducting magnetic bearings (SMB). The proposed approach allows a multiobjective optimal design with respect to the geometry of the excitation arrangement and the superconducting bulk, in terms of both levitation force and material cost. This method can be also applied for the optimization of other superconductor-permanent magnet configurations.