Improving the homogeneity of Halbach arrays by optimizing magnet combinations using a genetic algorithm

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to test the effectiveness of using a genetic algorithm to find the optimal combination of permutations of permanent magnets in a Halbach magnet array in order to achieve the best magnetic field homogeneity in this work area. The test took place on a simple Halbach magnet array of 32 cubic permanent magnets. The magnetization of these magnets was preliminary assessed. Our calculations demonstrate that it is possible to achieve homogeneity of the magnetic field within the working area comparable to that of ideal identical magnetic blocks. Therefore, our study shows that combinatorics can be used to optimize homogeneity without selecting magnetic blocks, which can significantly reduce the cost of manufacturing the final structure.