Optimization method for permanent-magnet structures

A nonlinear optimization method useful for designing permanent-magnet structures is presented. The method determines an optimal arrangement of magnetic material so that the magnitude of the remanence is spatially uniform and the field generated by the magnet satisfies a set of prescribed linear constraints. In addition, it is shown how to impose auxiliary conditions on the remanence in order to simplify a magnet's fabrication. A uniform magnitude of the remanence is necessary if a magnet is to be constructed out of a single type of magnetic material.