A novel geometrical configuration to form a magnetic field perpendicular to an aperture, created by an asymmetric current distribution, within a single layer, and using a continuous ideal current line, named the uni-layer magnet, will be presented. The idea is compared to existing concepts in superconducting magnets, namely, the cosθ sector magnet, stress managed cosθ and canted cosθ. The uni-layer magnet allows for a design with a continuous unit length (no layer jump), and an increased minimum bending radius of the conductor in relation to traditional cosθ and canted cosθ designs. The specific characteristics of the uni-layer design are especially advantageous for strain-sensitive and prone to winding degradation high-temperature superconductors, in very high field accelerator magnet applications, in which, high efficiency in the use of conductor, and a small aperture are required. The advantages with regard to the design and fabrication of uni-layer magnets in relation to other concepts are also discussed.
