Abstract: A method of training a conditional Generative Adversarial Network (cGAN) is disclosed. The cGAN has a generator and a discriminator. The method comprises obtaining a collection of images of components, each image having a physical parameter value relating to the component associated therewith, for each one of the collection of images of components, embedding a plurality of graphical encodings into the image that encode the associated physical parameter value, and training the cGAN using the collection of images of components with their embedded plurality of graphical encodings.

Abstract: A method of training a conditional Generative Adversarial Network (cGAN) is disclosed. The cGAN has a generator and a discriminator. The method comprises obtaining a collection of images of components having a plurality of input parameter values defining component design properties and a plurality of output parameter values defining component performance attributes. For each image, it is determined whether the image represents a feasible design or an infeasible design. The images are then categorised into categories representing feasible designs into a plurality of feasible categories using a Pareto front ranking process, in which each one of the component performance attributes is defines a corresponding objective function, and the images representing infeasible designs are categorised into an infeasible category. The cGAN is then using the images and their categorisation.

Abstract: Described is a leaf seal for sealing between a static component and a relatively rotating component having an axis of rotation, the leaf seal defining axially separated higher pressure upstream and lower pressure downstream areas within the static component when in use, the leaf seal comprising: a plurality of leaf elements having: a root end for attachment to the static component; a free end for wiping contact with the rotating component; an upstream edge extending from the root end to the free end; and, a downstream edge extending from the root end to the free end, wherein the leaf element width between the upstream edge and downstream edge at the root end is a, and width between the upstream edge and the downstream edge at the free end is b, where b<0.5?.