Particle trajectory calculations using finite element electromagnetic field maps

A scheme is presented whereby particle trajectories are calculated using fourth-order Runge-Kutta integration and an interpolative lookup algorithm that tracks the particle across a finite-element mesh. The program calculates 3-D trajectories in 2-D axisymmetric electric and/or magnetic fields modeled up to a fifth order as well as time-varying fields. This particle tracking algorithm is being integrated with an existing finite-element CAD package, which will enable a user to display particle trajectories as superpositions on a finite-element mesh. Results of the original application are presented along with some preliminary results from its integration with the CAD system