Computer optimization of electron gun designs

Computer optimization is applied to three dimensional design of electron guns. The resulting designs exhibit improved performance with significantly reduced design cost compared to manual design. Design tables update geometric parameters in a solid modeling program, including dimensions for points defining spline surfaces. Algorithms then modified the geometry and other parameters based on goal functions defining the desired performance. Optimal designs were achieved by automatic execution of the optimization loop. Results for confined flow Pierce guns, sheet beam guns, and multiple beam guns will be described.