A new method for the optimal design of the electromagnetic devices is presented. The method utilizes artificial neural networks (ANNs) in a design environment which encompasses numerical computations and expert's input for generating a variety of ANN training data. Results of two implementation examples are provided. The optimal design is obtained quickly (in a matter of milliseconds) once the ANNs are trained with a variety of geometrical topologies. The procedure explained in this paper can be used to provide good initial designs for use with iterative search techniques (currently used) to reduce searching time. This aspect is highly desirable to increase the effectiveness of the optimal design procedure.
