Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program

Abstract

An information processing apparatus includes an acquisition unit (251) that acquires, from an electronic device, first data including identification information of the electronic device, a generation unit (252) that generates transaction data including the first data, and an identification unit (253) that identifies, based on a type of the generated transaction data, among a plurality of blockchains, a blockchain in which the generated transaction data is to be recorded.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to information processing equipment, information processing methods, and procedures. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, services utilizing blockchain have been developed. Blockchain prevents tampering with recorded data and can reliably store recorded data through mutual monitoring among nodes of multiple business operators. Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for verifying the validity of control data to be controlled by verifying whether the control data of the verification object is control data learned using new learning data.

[0003] Reference List

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: WO2019 / 058684A Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] For example, in the aforementioned traditional technologies, there is a need to record and utilize data from Internet of Things (IoT) devices in various types of blockchains, such as public, consortium, and private types.

[0008] Therefore, this disclosure provides information processing devices, information processing methods, and programs that can ensure the authenticity of data recorded in various types of blockchains.

[0009] Solution to the problem

[0010] To address the aforementioned issues, the information processing apparatus according to this disclosure includes: an acquisition unit that acquires first data including identification information of an electronic device from an electronic device; a generation unit that generates transaction data including the first data; and an identification unit that, based on the type of the generated transaction data, identifies the blockchain in which the generated transaction data will be recorded among multiple blockchains.

[0011] Furthermore, the information processing method according to this disclosure, executed by a computer, includes: acquiring first data including identification information of an electronic device from an electronic device; generating transaction data including the first data; and identifying, based on the type of the generated transaction data, a blockchain among multiple blockchains that will record the generated transaction data.

[0012] Furthermore, the procedure according to this disclosure enables a computer to: acquire first data including identification information of an electronic device from an electronic device; generate transaction data including the first data; and, based on the type of the generated transaction data, identify the blockchain in which the generated transaction data will be recorded among multiple blockchains. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a diagram used to describe an overview of blockchain;

[0014] Figure 2 This is a diagram used to describe an overview of blockchain;

[0015] Figure 3 This is a diagram used to describe an overview of blockchain;

[0016] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an information processing system according to a first embodiment;

[0017] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example configuration of the first electronic device and the second electronic device according to the first embodiment;

[0018] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of transaction data according to the first embodiment;

[0019] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating another example of transaction data according to the first embodiment;

[0020] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed by a second electronic device according to a first embodiment;

[0021] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a server for managing an electronic device according to the first embodiment;

[0022] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating an example of management data for a server according to the first embodiment;

[0023] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an example of excluding transaction data from an electronic device according to a first embodiment;

[0024] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating an example configuration of the verification apparatus according to the first embodiment;

[0025] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed by the verification apparatus according to the first embodiment;

[0026] Figure 14This is a diagram illustrating an example configuration of the first electronic device and the second electronic device according to the second embodiment;

[0027] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed by a second electronic device according to a second embodiment;

[0028] Figure 16 This is a hardware configuration diagram illustrating an example of a computer that implements the functions of an information processing device. Detailed Implementation

[0029] In the following, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that in each of the following embodiments, the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0030] (First embodiment)

[0031] [Overview of Blockchain]

[0032] In the information processing system according to this embodiment, a blockchain is used, which is a distributed P2P database distributed across a peer-to-peer (P2P) network. A P2P network is also known as a peer-to-peer distributed file system. Therefore, before describing embodiments of this disclosure, an overview of the blockchain will first be described. Figures 1 to 3 This is a diagram used to describe an overview of blockchain.

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown, a blockchain is a chain of data consisting of multiple blocks. Each block can store one or more pieces of data, serving as transaction data (transaction data 1 to transaction data n in the diagram). Furthermore, examples of transaction data include various types of data, such as data indicating the content of a transaction (e.g., the value of the cryptocurrency in the transaction) and data indicating the public key addresses of participants in the peer-to-peer (P2P) network that generated the transaction.

[0034] For example, a blockchain includes the hash of the previous block and a value called a nonce. For instance, the hash of the previous block is information used to determine whether a block is a "correct block" that is correctly consecutive to the previous block. For instance, the nonce is information used to prevent spoofing in authentication using hashes and to prevent tampering. Examples of nonces include data indicating strings, numeric strings, or combinations thereof.

[0035] Furthermore, in blockchain, fraud is prevented by assigning electronic signatures using cryptographic keys to transaction data. Additionally, the data for each transaction is published and shared across all blockchain networks. Note that each piece of transaction data can be encrypted using a cryptographic key. Each piece of transaction data is published and shared across all P2P networks. Note that, depending on the type of P2P database, there may be situations where records are not necessarily maintained identically across all P2P networks.

[0036] New blocks are added to the blockchain in a P2P network using techniques such as Proof-of-Work (PoW) or Proof-of-Stake (PoS). PoW is a technique where the participant in a P2P network who solves a mathematical problem the fastest generates the new block. Similarly, PoS is a technique used to generate new blocks by the fastest solver of a mathematical problem, the difficulty of which varies depending on the amount of cryptocurrency held, the holding period, and other factors affecting the participant's assets. Note that the method for adding new blocks to the blockchain in a P2P network according to this embodiment is not particularly limited.

[0037] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of blockchain data records in a P2P network. Figure 2 The example shown illustrates the state of target data (e.g., coins in Bitcoin) included in transaction data, recorded by participant A in a blockchain system. Participant A attaches a digital signature generated using participant A's private key to the target data to be recorded in the blockchain. For example, by performing a digital signature on the data to be recorded in the blockchain using participant A's private key, it is ensured that the data belongs to participant A, that the holder of the data is participant A, etc. Furthermore, participant A in a P2P network can use participant A's public key, etc., to encrypt the data to be recorded in the blockchain. Note that, needless to say, it is not necessary to perform a digital signature using a private key or encryption using a public key when recording data in the blockchain.

[0038] When a digital signature is executed, participant A broadcasts transaction data, including the digitally signed data, on the P2P network. This ensures that participant A is the holder of the digitally signed data. The transaction data broadcast on the P2P network is then recorded in the blockchain by being included in blocks created by any participant in the P2P network.

[0039] Note that the methods for recording data in a blockchain within a P2P network are not limited to those described above. For example, sidechain technology can also be used to record data in a blockchain within a P2P network.

[0040] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of retrieving data from a blockchain in a P2P network. Figure 3The example shown illustrates how data can be retrieved from a blockchain. Each participant in a P2P network can retrieve data, for example, by referring to blockchain data stored in a recording medium corresponding to each participant, which is recorded in the blockchain data by the participants of the P2P network and stored in the blockchain.

[0041] Note that, depending on the type of blockchain, there may be situations where records are not necessarily kept identically across all P2P networks. Data recorded by P2P network participants in the blockchain is shared among some participants of the P2P network, and some participants can retrieve the recorded data by referring to the blockchain stored in the corresponding recording medium.

[0042] Furthermore, for example, when using a private key to digitally sign data recorded on the blockchain, a participant who has obtained the recorded data can verify the validity of the obtained recorded data using the public key corresponding to the private key. Additionally, for example, when using a public key to encrypt data recorded on the blockchain, a participant who has obtained the recorded data can decrypt the obtained recorded data using the private key corresponding to the public key.

[0043] [Overview of the information processing system according to the first embodiment]

[0044] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an information processing system according to a first embodiment. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the information processing system 1 includes a first electronic device 100 and a second electronic device 200. Although this embodiment will describe the information processing system 1 as including multiple first electronic devices 100 and multiple second electronic devices 200, the present invention is not limited thereto. The combination and number of the first electronic devices 100 and the second electronic devices 200 can be appropriately varied in the information processing system 1. In this embodiment, the second electronic device 200 is an example of an information processing device. For example, as shown by arrow 1R, a path for transmitting data is preset for the first electronic device 100 and the second electronic device 200, and multiple paths, including detour paths, can be set.

[0045] Examples of the first electronic device 100 include IoT devices that do not have the function of requesting the node device 700 to record transaction data. Examples of the second electronic device 200 include IoT devices that have the function of requesting the node device 700 to record transaction data. As IoT devices, for example, sensors, washing machines, dryers, microwave ovens, dishwashers, refrigerators, ovens, rice cookers, cooking appliances, gas appliances, fire alarms, thermostats, air conditioners, set-top boxes, video players, video recorders, audio devices, lighting devices, water heaters, electric kettles, vacuum cleaners, fans, air purifiers, security cameras, locks, door / snap opener / close devices, sprinklers, toilets, thermometers, scales, blood pressure monitors, etc., can be used.

[0046] For example, the first electronic device 100 and the second electronic device 200 are configured to communicate via a network or directly without a network. The first electronic device 100 exchanges data with at least one of a pre-configured first electronic device 100 and a pre-configured second electronic device 200. The second electronic device 200 exchanges data with at least one of a pre-configured first electronic device 100 and a pre-configured second electronic device 200. The second electronic device 200 has the function of exchanging data with node devices 700 of blockchain networks 600A and 600B.

[0047] Blockchain network 600A holds a public-type first blockchain 500A and includes multiple node devices 700. The public-type first blockchain 500A is a blockchain without a governing entity. Blockchain network 600B holds a consortium-type second blockchain 500B and includes multiple node devices 700. The consortium-type second blockchain 500B is a blockchain with a governing entity. Blockchain network 600B has higher processing power than blockchain network 600A.

[0048] Although the scenario described in this embodiment involves the second electronic device 200 transmitting data to the node devices 700 of blockchain networks 600A and 600B, the information processing system 1 is not limited thereto. For example, the information processing system 1 may be configured such that each of the plurality of second electronic devices 200 transmits data to the node device 700.

[0049] In this embodiment, the scenario where the information processing system 1 switches the data recording destination to a single first blockchain 500A and a single second blockchain 500B will be described; however, the number and type of blockchains are not limited. The first blockchain 500A and the second blockchain 500B can have a one-to-many relationship. For example, the information processing system 1 can record data in multiple first blockchains 500A and second blockchains 500B. Furthermore, the information processing system 1 can have the function of recording data in private type blockchains.

[0050] Node device 700 performs various processes, such as block generation and blockchain sharing. Node device 700 includes, for example, a communication unit implemented by a network interface card (NIC), communication circuitry, etc. Node device 700 connects to a network via wired or wireless means and transmits and receives information from another device, such as second electronic device 200, via the network. Each node device 700 transmits information with another node device 700 on the blockchain. Node device 700 communicates with terminal devices 800, etc., using block data.

[0051] Node device 700 includes a control unit, such as a central processing unit (CPU) or microprocessor unit (MPU), and performs various types of information processing. Node device 700 includes storage units, such as those implemented with semiconductor storage elements like random access memory (RAM) and flash memory, or storage devices such as hard disks and optical disks. Each node device 700 stores the blockchain in a storage unit.

[0052] Node device 700, in response to a request from an external electronic device, extracts relevant information and transmits the extracted information to the requesting source. For example, when receiving specified information for specified information from an external electronic device, node device 700 extracts the relevant information from the blockchain stored in the storage unit and transmits the extracted information to the requesting source. Note that blockchain networks 600A and 600B may include a providing device that performs various processes, such as obtaining relevant information from node device 700 in response to a request from an external device and transmitting that information to the requesting source.

[0053] [Configuration example of the information processing system according to the first embodiment]

[0054] Next, a configuration example of the information processing system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example configuration of the first electronic device 100 and the second electronic device 200 according to the first embodiment.

[0055] [Configuration of the First Electronic Device]

[0056] like Figure 5 As shown, the first electronic device 100 includes a sensor unit 110, a communication unit 120, a storage unit 130, and a control unit 140. The control unit 140 is electrically connected to the sensor unit 110, the communication unit 120, and the storage unit 130.

[0057] Sensor unit 110 includes various sensors, cameras, microphones, etc., for detecting target information. Examples of various sensors include temperature sensors, humidity sensors, gyroscope sensors, accelerometers, ultrasonic sensors, radar, light detection and ranging or laser imaging detection and ranging (LiDAR), sonar, geomagnetic sensors, illuminance sensors, atmospheric pressure sensors, etc. Sensor unit 110 detects information about acceleration, angular velocity, direction, illuminance, temperature, atmospheric pressure, etc., applied to the device. For example, when a user carries or wears a device including sensors, the aforementioned various sensors can detect various types of information as information about the user, such as information indicating the user's movement, direction, etc. Sensor unit 110 detects images or sounds near the user or device as information through cameras, microphones, the aforementioned various sensors, etc. In addition, various sensors may also include sensors that detect the user's biometric information, such as pulse, perspiration, brain waves, touch, smell, and taste. Sensor unit 110 may include processing circuitry, etc., which analyzes the information detected by the sensors and / or the image or sound data detected by the camera or microphone, which will be described later. The sensor unit 110 provides the detected information as sensor information to the control unit 140, etc.

[0058] In addition, sensor unit 110 may include a location detection device for detecting indoor or outdoor location. Specifically, the location detection device includes a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver, such as a Global Positioning System receiver, a Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS) receiver, a BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS) receiver, and / or a communication device. The communication device detects location by utilizing technologies such as Wi-Fi, Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO), cellular communication (e.g., location detection using mobile base stations, femtocells), near-field communication (e.g., Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)), or Low-Power Wide-Area (LPWA).

[0059] Furthermore, in cases where the sensor unit 110 detects the user's location and condition (including biometric information) as described above, for example, the first electronic device 100 including the sensor unit 110 is carried or worn by the user. Alternatively, even if the first electronic device 100 including the sensor unit 110 is installed in the user's living environment, the sensor unit 110 can still detect the user's location and condition (including biometric information). For example, the sensor unit 110 can detect the user's condition by analyzing images including the user's face acquired by a camera or the like that fixedly installed indoors.

[0060] Furthermore, the sensor unit 110 may include a processor or processing circuitry that converts signals or data acquired by sensors, etc., into a predetermined format. Converting to a predetermined format includes, for example, converting analog signals into digital signals and encoding image or voice data.

[0061] The communication unit 120 has the function of performing information communication with another electronic device via a network. Specifically, the communication unit 120 transmits sensor information detected by the sensor unit 110 to the other electronic device. The communication unit 120 outputs information received from the other electronic device to the control unit 140.

[0062] Furthermore, the communication unit 120 can receive information from external services, etc. Information obtained from external services includes information acquired by the various sensors described above. Examples of information obtained from external services include acceleration, angular velocity, direction, altitude, illumination, temperature, atmospheric pressure, pulse, perspiration, brain waves, touch, smell, taste, other biological information, emotion, location information, etc. Information obtained from external services may include, for example, information detected by sensors included in a system external to the first electronic device 100 that collaborates with the external service and generated and published to the external service. The communication unit 120 outputs the information received from external services, etc., to the control unit 140. Note that, for example, the communication unit 120 may be included in the configuration of the sensor unit 110.

[0063] Storage unit 130 stores various types of data and programs. For example, storage unit 130 is a semiconductor storage element, such as random access memory (RAM), flash memory, hard disk, optical disk, etc. Storage unit 130 stores information received from another electronic device. Storage unit 130 stores various types of information, such as identification information 131, public key information 132, and private key information 133. Identification information 131 includes, for example, information used to identify the first electronic device 100. Identification information 131 is associated with device information on the first electronic device 100. Public key information 132 is, for example, information indicating a public key used for signature generation. Private key information 133 includes, for example, information indicating a private key. Identification information 131, public key information 132, and private key information 133 may be stored, for example, when the first electronic device 100 is shipped, or may store information generated by the first electronic device 100. Note that when the first electronic device 100 generates information, the first electronic device 100 outputs the generated information to the manufacturer, administrator, etc.

[0064] The control unit 140 is, for example, a dedicated or general-purpose computer. The control unit 140 creates signature information for the first electronic device 100 based on public key information 132 and private key information 133. The control unit 140 performs control to generate transaction data D1, including sensor information detected by sensor unit 110, identification information 131, and signature information, and transmits transaction data D1 to another electronic device. The control unit 140 performs processing requested from another electronic device. For example, the control unit 140 performs control to transmit various types of information via communication unit 120 to an electronic device that has already requested transmission, a preset electronic device, etc. In this embodiment, the control unit 140 transmits transaction data D1 to a predetermined second electronic device 200. Note that the transaction data D1 of the first electronic device 100 is an example of first data.

[0065] [Configuration of the second electronic device]

[0066] Next, an example of the configuration of the second electronic device 200 will be described. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the second electronic device 200 includes a display unit 210, an input unit 220, a communication unit 230, a storage unit 240, and a control unit 250. The control unit 250 is electrically connected to the display unit 210, the input unit 220, the communication unit 230, and the storage unit 240.

[0067] The display unit 210 has the function of displaying various types of information. The display unit 210 is controlled by the control unit 250. The display unit 210 includes, for example, a display device for displaying various types of information. Examples of display devices include liquid crystal display (LCD) devices, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) devices, touch panels, etc. Furthermore, the display unit 210 according to this embodiment can output information through a projection function, etc.

[0068] Input unit 220 includes an input device that allows an operator or similar entity to perform input and selection. Examples of input devices include a keyboard, mouse, etc. Input unit 220 may include, for example, a microphone configured to collect the operator's voice. Input unit 220 outputs input information to control unit 250.

[0069] The communication unit 230 has the function of communicating with external electronic devices via a network. Specifically, the communication unit 230 transmits information to the transmission destination indicated by the control unit 250. The communication unit 230 outputs information received from external electronic devices to the control unit 250.

[0070] Storage unit 240 stores various types of data and programs. For example, storage unit 240 is a semiconductor storage element, such as RAM, flash memory, hard disk, optical disk, etc. Storage unit 240 stores various types of information, such as identification information 241, public key information 242, private key information 243, and setting information 244. Identification information 241 includes, for example, information used to identify the second electronic device 200. Identification information 241 is associated with device information on the second electronic device 200. Device information includes, for example, the validity period and status information of the second electronic device 200. Status information includes, for example, maintenance information and fault information of the second electronic device 200.

[0071] Public key information 242 is, for example, information indicating the public key used for signature generation. Private key information 243 includes, for example, information indicating the private key. Identification information 241, public key information 242, and private key information 243 may be stored, for example, when the second electronic device 200 is shipped, or may be stored as information generated by the second electronic device 200. Note that when the second electronic device 200 generates information, the second electronic device 200 outputs the generated information to the manufacturer, administrator, etc.

[0072] The configuration information 244 includes information set, for example, by the manufacturer or user of the second electronic device 200. The configuration information 244 includes, for example, information capable of identifying the blockchain recording the data. The configuration information 244 includes, for example, information indicating whether the host device is a relay device. For example, when the configuration information 244 indicates that the host device is a relay device, the second electronic device 200 functions as a relay device for transmitting data to another second electronic device 200. For example, when the configuration information 244 indicates that the host device is not a relay device, the second electronic device 200 functions as a transmission device for transmitting data to the node device 700.

[0073] Storage unit 240 also stores, for example, transaction data D1. Transaction data D1 is the aforementioned transaction data. Storage unit 240 stores transaction data D1 generated by the host device and transaction data D1 generated by another electronic device. Note that an example of transaction data D1 will be described later.

[0074] The control unit 250 is, for example, a dedicated or general-purpose computer. The control unit 250 controls the operation of the second electronic device 200. The control unit 250 includes an acquisition unit 251, a generation unit 252, an identification unit 253, and a transmission unit 254. Each functional unit of the acquisition unit 251, generation unit 252, identification unit 253, and transmission unit 254 is implemented by, for example, a CPU, an MPU, etc. Furthermore, each functional unit can be implemented by, for example, an integrated circuit, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0075] The acquisition unit 251 acquires first data, including identification information and signature information, from at least one of the first electronic device 100 and the second electronic device 200. For example, the acquisition unit 251 acquires the first data when transaction data D1 is generated or after a certain period of time has elapsed. The first data may include, for example, transaction data generated by another electronic device, data including the detection result of the sensor unit 110 and identification information, etc. The acquisition unit 251 provides the acquired first data to the generation unit 252.

[0076] Generation unit 252 generates transaction data D1 including first data. Generation unit 252 generates anonymized transaction data D1 based on, for example, transaction data D1, host device identification information 241, public key information 242, and private key information 243. Generation unit 252 generates transaction data D1 including host device identification information 241. When the second electronic device 200 is an electronic device on the transmission path of information processing system 1, generation unit 252 has the function of generating transaction data D1 including information capable of identifying the blockchain, and the data of setting information 244 will be recorded in the blockchain. The transmission path is, for example, a predetermined path for transmitting data in information processing system 1. Generation unit 252 provides the generated transaction data D1 to identification unit 253.

[0077] For example, the generation unit 252 has the function of generating transaction data D1, including the received transaction data D1 and the identification information 241 of the host device, whenever transaction data D1 is received from the first electronic device 100, etc. As a result, whenever transaction data D1 is received from the first electronic device 100, the second electronic device 200 can generate the host device's transaction data D1.

[0078] For example, the generation unit 252 has the function of generating transaction data D1 of the host device, which includes multiple transaction data D1 received from the first electronic device 100, etc. As a result, the second electronic device 200 can generate transaction data D1 that includes multiple data from the first electronic device 100, etc.

[0079] For example, the generation unit 252 has the function of generating transaction data D1 from the host device, but does not include transaction data D1 whose data has not changed from multiple transaction data D1 received from the first electronic device 100, etc. within a specific time period. As a result, the second electronic device 200 can generate transaction data D1 obtained by thinning out multiple transaction data D1 to reduce the amount of data.

[0080] For example, if the transaction data D1 received from the first electronic device 100 includes measurement data, the generation unit 252 has the function of fitting the measurement data within a specific time period to an approximate function and generating transaction data D1 from the host device that includes parameter information for reproducing the function. As a result, even if the second electronic device 200 receives multiple transaction data D1 from the first electronic device 100, the amount of transaction data D1 generated by the host device can be reduced.

[0081] For example, generation unit 252 stores the data body of transaction data D1 received from the first electronic device 100, etc., in a data file (storage destination) indicated by a Uniform Resource Locator (URL). Generation unit 252 has the function of generating transaction data D1 of the host device including the hash value of the data body. As a result, even if the second electronic device 200 receives multiple transaction data D1 from the first electronic device 100, etc., the amount of transaction data D1 generated by the host device can be reduced.

[0082] Based on the type of the generated transaction data D1, the identification unit 253 identifies the blockchain that recorded the generated transaction data D1 among multiple blockchains. Examples of the type of transaction data D1 include whether it includes another transaction data D1, whether privacy protection of the target data included in transaction data D1 is necessary, the data type and data structure of transaction data D1, or a combination of these. Furthermore, information indicating the type of transaction data D1 can be included in transaction data D1 itself. The identification unit 253 provides the identification result to the transmission unit 254.

[0083] For example, if transaction data D1 is non-confidential, identification unit 253 identifies a first blockchain 500A of the public type. If transaction data D1 is confidential, identification unit 253 identifies a second blockchain 500B of the consortium type. If transaction data D1 includes transaction data from another electronic device, identification unit 253 identifies a second blockchain 500B.

[0084] For example, there may be a situation where transaction data D1 includes information that could potentially identify an individual. Therefore, if transaction data D1 is anonymized, the identification unit 253 will identify the blockchain containing the transaction data D1 as at least one of a first blockchain 500A and a second blockchain 500B. If transaction data D1 is not anonymized, the identification unit 253 will identify the blockchain containing the transaction data D1 as a second blockchain 500B. If transaction data D1 includes compressed data or a portion of data from another electronic device, the identification unit 253 will identify the blockchain in which the transaction data D1 is recorded as a first blockchain 500A. As a result, the identification unit 253 may also, for example, record transaction data D1 in the blockchain that could not be identified due to data discrepancies.

[0085] When information indicating the blockchain to be recorded is included in transaction data D1, the identification unit 253 identifies the blockchain indicated by that information. When there is a discrepancy in the information indicating the blockchain to be recorded, the identification unit 253 identifies the blockchain in which transaction data D1 will be recorded based on a preset priority. For example, suppose the aforementioned setting information 244 includes information indicating the priority of each of a plurality of blockchains. For example, suppose the blockchain set in transaction data D1 on the host device is different from the blockchain set in transaction data D1 generated by another electronic device. In this case, the identification unit 253 identifies the blockchain with the higher priority of the setting information 244. Note that if there is a discrepancy in the information indicating the blockchain to be recorded, the identification unit 253 may discard transaction data D1.

[0086] The transmission unit 254 transmits transaction data D1 to the blockchain node device 700 identified by the identification unit 253. For example, the transmission unit 254 transmits transaction data D1 to the node device 700 via the communication unit 230. The transmission unit 254 also transmits (transfers) transaction data D1 generated by the generation unit 252 to another electronic device on the transmission path in the information processing system 1.

[0087] For example, when multiple second electronic devices 200 transmit transaction data D1 at the same time, data transmission and reception may be concentrated. Therefore, the transmission unit 254 can transmit transaction data D1 at a specific timing different from that of the other electronic devices. For example, the transmission unit 254 transmits transaction data D1 at a different time set for each of the multiple second electronic devices 200. Examples of different times include time offset from a predetermined interval, specific timing determined based on random numbers, etc. For example, the multiple second electronic devices 200 can be adjusted such that the number of second electronic devices 200 transmitting at zero seconds per minute and the number of second electronic devices 200 transmitting at one second per minute are the same or do not exceed a set number. For example, the multiple second electronic devices 200 can determine their own device-specific timing based on random numbers to allocate transmission time for each second electronic device 200 in the information processing system 1. As described above, the second electronic devices 200 can allocate transmission timing from other electronic devices in the information processing system 1.

[0088] Examples of functional configurations of the first electronic device 100 and the second electronic device 200 according to this embodiment have been described above. Note that reference... Figure 5 The configurations described above are merely examples, and the functional configurations of the first electronic device 100 and the second electronic device 200 according to this embodiment are not limited to these examples. The functional configuration of the second electronic device 200 according to this embodiment can be flexibly modified according to specifications and operations.

[0089] [Example of transaction data configuration according to the first embodiment]

[0090] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of transaction data D1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating another example of transaction data D1 according to the first embodiment.

[0091] like Figure 6 As shown, transaction data D1 includes items such as identification information, target information, timestamp, location information, and signature information. For example, the identification information includes setting the identification information of the electronic device that generated transaction data D1. The target information includes, for example, setting information about the electronic device to be recorded on the blockchain. Target information includes, for example, information detected by sensor unit 110, information obtained from subordinate electronic devices, etc. The timestamp includes, for example, setting information such as the date and time associated with the target information. The location information includes, for example, setting the location information of the electronic device associated with the target information. The signature information includes, for example, setting information about the signature generated based on the public and private keys.

[0092] Figure 7The transaction data D1 shown is encapsulated Figure 6 The data obtained from transaction data D1 is shown. Transaction data D1 includes transaction data D1 obtained from subordinate electronic devices. In the case of multiple subordinate electronic devices, transaction data D1 includes multiple transaction data D1s. Transaction data D1 may include multiple transaction data D1s in order according to the transmission path of information processing system 1. Furthermore, the included transaction data D1 may include another transaction data D1. As a result, the transmission path of the electronic device can be determined by analyzing the inclusion status of transaction data D1.

[0093] [Processing procedure of the second electronic device according to the first embodiment]

[0094] Next, we will refer to Figure 8 An example describing the processing procedure of the second electronic device 200 according to the first embodiment. Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure executed by the second electronic device 200 according to the first embodiment. When the control unit 250 of the second electronic device 200 executes the program, it implements... Figure 8 The processing procedure is shown. Control unit 250 executes this process repeatedly. Figure 8 The processing procedure is shown.

[0095] like Figure 8 As shown, the control unit 250 of the second electronic device 200 acquires transaction data D1 from another electronic device (step S11). For example, the control unit 250 acquires transaction data D1 obtained from another electronic device via the communication unit 230 or stored in the storage unit 240. For example, the control unit 250 may acquire transaction data D1 input from the input unit 220. When the processing in step S11 ends, the control unit 250 advances the processing to step S12.

[0096] The control unit 250 generates transaction data D1 for the host device (step S12). For example, when transaction data D1 was acquired in step S11, the control unit 250 generates transaction data D1 that includes transaction data D1 and also includes the host device's identification information 241 and target information. For example, when transaction data D1 was not acquired in step S11, the control unit 250 generates transaction data D1 that only includes the host device's identification information 241 and target information. After storing the generated transaction data D1 in the storage unit 240, the control unit 250 proceeds to step S13.

[0097] The control unit 250 identifies the blockchain in which transaction data D1 will be recorded (step S13). For example, the control unit 250 identifies the blockchain in which transaction data D1 will be recorded based on the type of transaction data D1. For example, the control unit 250 analyzes transaction data D1 and estimates the type of transaction data D1 based on the analysis results. In this embodiment, the control unit 250 identifies either a first blockchain 500A or a second blockchain 500B. After storing the identification result in the storage unit 240, the control unit 250 proceeds to step S14.

[0098] Based on the identification result of step S13, control unit 250 determines whether the first blockchain 500A has been identified (step S14). When it is determined that the first blockchain 500A has been identified (yes in step S14), control unit 250 proceeds to step S15. Control unit 250 transmits the generated transaction data D1 to the node device 700 of the first blockchain 500A (step S15). For example, control unit 250 executes control to transmit transaction data D1 to the node device 700 of the first blockchain 500A via communication unit 230. As a result, when transaction data D1 is received from the second electronic device 200, node device 700 generates a block including transaction data D1 and records the block in the first blockchain 500A. Then, when the processing of step S15 ends, control unit 250 terminates. Figure 8 The processing procedure is shown.

[0099] Furthermore, when it is determined that the first blockchain 500A is not identified (No in step S14), the control unit 250 proceeds to step S16. The control unit 250 transmits the generated transaction data D1 to the node device 700 of the second blockchain 500B (step S16). For example, the control unit 250 executes control to transmit the transaction data D1 to the node device 700 of the second blockchain 500B via the communication unit 230. As a result, when the node device 700 receives the transaction data D1 from the second electronic device 200, it generates a block including the transaction data D1 and records the block in the second blockchain 500B. Then, when the processing in step S16 ends, the control unit 250 terminates the process. Figure 8 The processing procedure is shown.

[0100] exist Figure 8 In the example of the processing procedure shown, the control unit 250 of the second electronic device 200 functions as the acquisition unit 251 by executing step S11. The control unit 250 functions as the generation unit 252 by executing step S12. The control unit 250 functions as the identification unit 253 by executing step S13. The control unit 250 functions as the transmission unit 254 by executing steps S15 and S16.

[0101] [Configuration example of the server according to the first embodiment]

[0102] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a server for managing electronic devices according to a first embodiment. Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating an example of management data for a server according to the first embodiment. Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an example of excluding transaction data from an electronic device according to a first embodiment.

[0103] like Figure 9 As shown, server 400 is a so-called cloud server. Server 400 has the function of managing the first electronic device 100 and the second electronic device 200. Server 400 is based on Figure 10 The management data 410 shown manages the first electronic device 100 and the second electronic device 200. For example, the management data 410 includes items such as identification information ID, public key information PK, validity period information T, and status information C. For example, multiple identification information entries are set for the first electronic device 100 and the second electronic device 200 as identification information ID. For example, public key information PK is set for the electronic device corresponding to the identification information ID. For example, validity period information T is set to indicate the validity period of the electronic device corresponding to the identification information ID. For example, status information C is set for the electronic device corresponding to the identification information ID.

[0104] Server 400 is configured to communicate with the second electronic device 200 and node device 700 via a network. Server 400 has the function of obtaining information about electronic device anomalies, for example, from the second electronic device 200, an administrator, etc. When an anomaly is detected in the electronic device to be managed, server 400 sets information indicating the anomaly in the corresponding status information C of management data 410. Server 400 has the function of providing corresponding information of management data 410 to the query source in response to a query from the electronic device. Server 400 has the function of requesting node device 700 to record transaction data including management data 410 in the blockchain.

[0105] Server 400 has the function of detecting which electronic devices to be excluded from a plurality of managed electronic devices. Server 400 detects the electronic devices to be excluded based on, for example, expiration information T and status information C from management data 410. Examples of electronic devices to be excluded include electronic devices whose expiration dates have expired, faulty electronic devices, and electronic devices in a fraudulent state. When an electronic device to be excluded is detected, server 400 generates... Figure 11The transaction data D2 shown is used to exclude electronic devices. Transaction data D2 includes items such as exclusion identification information, invalidation time information, and signature information. For example, the exclusion identification information includes setting the identification information of the electronic device to be excluded. For example, the invalidation time information includes setting information such as the time and date indicating the start of invalidation. Server 400 requests node device 700 to record the generated transaction data D2 in the blockchain. As a result, by recording transaction data D2 in the blockchain, server 400 enables devices using blockchain data to identify the electronic devices to be excluded as indicated by transaction data D2.

[0106] [Example of the configuration of the verification device according to the first embodiment]

[0107] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating an example configuration of the verification apparatus according to the first embodiment. (See diagram for example.) Figure 12 As shown, the verification device 800 includes a communication unit 810, a storage unit 820, and a control unit 830. The control unit 830 is electrically connected to the communication unit 810 and the storage unit 820. For example, the verification device 800 is used when blockchain data is being used. Note that the verification device 800 can be included in the configuration of the information processing system 1 described above.

[0108] The communication unit 810 has the function of performing information communication with other communication devices, electronic devices, etc. via a network. Specifically, the communication unit 810 receives blockchain data and outputs the data to the control unit 830. Under the control of the control unit 830, the communication unit 810 transmits various types of information to another communication device.

[0109] Storage unit 820 stores various types of data and programs. For example, storage unit 820 is a semiconductor storage element, such as random access memory (RAM), flash memory, hard disk, optical disk, etc. Storage unit 820 stores data received from another electronic device. Storage unit 820 stores programs used to enable artificial intelligence to function in verification device 800. Artificial intelligence refers to, for example, programs used to enable computers to perform actions that humans do using intelligence, and the computers executing those programs. Artificial intelligence can exchange data over a network, sharing at least a portion of a capability involving physical or intelligent work among multiple computers. Storage unit 820 may store a portion of the management data 410 obtained from the aforementioned server 400.

[0110] The control unit 830 is, for example, a dedicated or general-purpose computer. The control unit 830 controls the operation of the verification device 800. The control unit 830 provides the function of verifying blockchain data by executing programs. The control unit 830 includes an extraction unit 831 and a verification unit 832. Each functional unit of the extraction unit 831 and the verification unit 832 is implemented by, for example, a CPU, an MPU, etc. Furthermore, each functional unit can be implemented by, for example, an integrated circuit such as an ASIC and an FPGA.

[0111] Extraction unit 831 extracts target data from the blockchain, for example, verifying the target data and the data intended for use. For example, extraction unit 831 extracts transaction data D1 from the blockchain that includes the target data. Extraction unit 831 stores the extracted target data in storage unit 820. Extraction unit 831 provides the extracted target data to verification unit 832.

[0112] Verification unit 832 verifies the target data extracted by extraction unit 831. For example, verification unit 832 determines whether a certain time has elapsed since the generation of a block containing the target data in the blockchain, and sets the target data of blocks that have elapsed for the certain time as verification objects. Examples of the determined time include the average time until the block is recorded in the blockchain, the average time the block may be excluded, etc. For example, verification unit 832 obtains management data 410 or data of the corresponding electronic device from the aforementioned server 400, etc. In the case where the aforementioned transaction data D2 has already been recorded in the blockchain, verification unit 832 obtains transaction data D2. Verification unit 832 confirms the excluded electronic device based on the obtained transaction data D2. For example, if the exclusion identification information of transaction data D2 matches the identification information of extracted transaction data D1 and satisfies the invalidity time information of transaction data D2, verification unit 832 determines that the electronic device is an excluded electronic device. Based on the identification information of the excluded electronic device, verification unit 832 invalidates the target data of the excluded electronic device transaction data D1 among the multiple pieces of target data obtained, and verifies the other multiple pieces of target data. The verification unit 832 transmits data indicating the verification result to the set transmission destination via the communication unit 810.

[0113] The functional configuration example of the verification apparatus 800 according to the first embodiment has been described above. Note that, refer to... Figure 12 The configuration described above is merely an example, and the functional configuration of the verification device 800 according to this embodiment is not limited to such an example. The functional configuration of the verification device 800 according to this embodiment can be flexibly modified according to specifications and operations.

[0114] [Processing procedure of the verification device according to the first embodiment]

[0115] Next, we will refer to Figure 13An example describing the processing procedure of the verification apparatus 800 according to the first embodiment. Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed by the verification device 800 according to the first embodiment. When the control unit 830 of the verification device 800 executes the program, it implements... Figure 13 The processing procedure is shown. Control unit 830 executes this repeatedly. Figure 13 The processing procedure is shown.

[0116] like Figure 13 As shown, the control unit 830 of the verification device 800 extracts target data from the blockchain (step S101). For example, the control unit 830 obtains target data from the blockchain via the communication unit 810. The control unit 830 determines whether the target data has been extracted (step S102). When it is determined that no target data has been extracted (no in step S102), the control unit 830 terminates. Figure 13 The processing procedure is shown. Furthermore, when it is determined that the target data has been extracted (Yes in step S102), the control unit 830 proceeds the processing to step S103.

[0117] The control unit 830 verifies transaction data D1, which includes target data, based on management data 410 (step S103). For example, the control unit 830 verifies transaction data D1 by referring to management data 410, transaction data D2, etc., and stores the verification result in storage unit 820. When the processing in step S103 is completed, the control unit 830 advances the processing to step S104.

[0118] Control unit 830 determines whether data from excluded electronic devices is included (step S104). For example, control unit 830 determines whether data from excluded electronic devices is included in the target data based on the verification result. When it is determined that data from excluded electronic devices is included (yes in step S104), control unit 830 proceeds to step S105. Control unit 830 stores the target data, from which data from excluded electronic devices has been deleted, as available data in storage unit 820 (step S105). Note that, for example, control unit 830 can be configured to delete the target data and not store the target data in storage unit 820. When the processing in step S105 is complete, control unit 830 terminates. Figure 13 The processing procedure is shown.

[0119] Furthermore, when it is determined that data from excluded electronic devices is not included (No in step S104), the control unit 830 proceeds to step S106. The control unit 830 stores all target data as available data in the storage unit 820 (step S106). When the processing in step S106 is completed, the control unit 830 terminates the process. Figure 13 The processing procedure is shown.

[0120] exist Figure 13 In the example of the processing procedure shown, the control unit 830 of the verification device 800 functions as the extraction unit 831 by executing step S110. The control unit 830 functions as the verification unit 832 by executing steps S102 to S106.

[0121] As described above, the second electronic device 200 according to the first embodiment generates transaction data D1 including first data obtained from at least one of the first electronic device 100 and another second electronic device 200. The second electronic device 200 can identify the blockchain to which recording is to be performed based on the type of the transaction data D1 from among multiple blockchains. As a result, the second electronic device 200 can record the transaction data D1, including identification information of the electronic device, in a blockchain suitable for that type, and thus can ensure the authenticity of the data recorded in various types of blockchains.

[0122] For example, the second electronic device 200 can identify the recording destination of non-confidential transaction data D1 as the first blockchain 500A, and the recording destination of confidential transaction data D1 as the second blockchain 500B. As a result, the second electronic device 200 can record transaction data D1 suitable for blockchains, and therefore, the management of various types of blockchains can be simplified.

[0123] Furthermore, when obtaining transaction data D1 to be verified from the blockchain, the verification device 800 can confirm whether an electronic device has been excluded based on the identification information and management data 410, since the identification information is included in the transaction data D1. The verification device 800 can invalidate the data of excluded electronic devices and verify the data of electronic devices that have not been excluded. As a result, even for data recorded in the blockchain, the verification device 800 can verify the data during the usage phase, and thus can help ensure the validity of the data.

[0124] Note that the first embodiment described above is an example, and various modifications and applications are possible. The information processing system 1 of the first embodiment can be applied to other embodiments, etc. Furthermore, the information processing system 1 may include a first electronic device 100, a second electronic device 200, a server 400, and a verification device 800.

[0125] [Modification (1) of the first embodiment]

[0126] For example, suppose the sensor unit 110 of the first electronic device 100 is an image sensor installed on the street. In this case, the second electronic device 200 continuously generates transaction data D1 from the host device, including transaction data D1 acquired from the first electronic device 100, and records the transaction data D1 in the blockchain. As a result, the second electronic device 200 can, for example, record data in an appropriate blockchain, which can be used to analyze the location of traffic congestion and the location or factors that may lead to accidents. Furthermore, when the recorded data reflects users, the blockchain can learn through machine learning about the places users visit, their body type, clothing, walking style, etc. When the learning results of the blockchain are reflected in movies, games, etc., it can give users a sense of personalization.

[0127] As a machine learning technique, it is used, for example, with neural networks or deep learning. Neural networks are models that mimic the circuitry of the human cranial nervous system, comprising three types of layers: input layers, intermediate layers (hidden layers), and output layers. Deep learning, on the other hand, uses models of neural networks with multi-layered structures and can learn complex patterns hidden in large amounts of data by repeatedly learning features in each layer. Deep learning is used in applications such as recognizing objects in images or words in speech.

[0128] Furthermore, as hardware for implementing this machine learning, for example, computers, such as verification device 800 and server 400, neural chips / neuromorphic chips containing neural network concepts, etc., can be used.

[0129] Furthermore, for example, suppose the first electronic device 100 is an electronic device installed on a vehicle, and the sensor unit 110 consists of various sensors of the vehicle. In this case, the second electronic device 200 continuously generates transaction data D1 of the host device, including transaction data D1 obtained from the first electronic device 100, and records the transaction data D1 in the blockchain. As a result, the second electronic device 200 can record data, for example, that can be used to analyze the vehicle's status, location, and driving behavior in the appropriate blockchain.

[0130] [Modification (2) of the first embodiment]

[0131] For example, transaction data D1 may include personal data. Where the personal data is identifiable, the second electronic device 200 may use information to identify the individual included in each piece of transaction data D1. In this case, the second electronic device 200 identifies a consortium-type second blockchain 500B as the recording destination for transaction data D1, which includes personally identifiable data. The data recorded in the blockchain is then preferably used as a data storage destination for a repository, for example, by performing personal authentication and access control on the data.

[0132] (Second Embodiment)

[0133] [Configuration example of the information processing system according to the second embodiment]

[0134] Although the verification of data included in transaction data D1 by verification device 800 has been described in the first embodiment, the present invention is not limited thereto. In the second embodiment, an example of verification functionality being included in the second electronic device 200 will be described.

[0135] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating an example configuration of the first electronic device 100 and the second electronic device 200 according to the second embodiment. Figure 14 As shown, the information processing system 1 includes a first electronic device 100 and a second electronic device 200. The first electronic device 100 has the same configuration as the first electronic device 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0136] The second electronic device 200 includes a display unit 210, an input unit 220, a communication unit 230, a storage unit 240, and a control unit 250. Note that descriptions of configurations identical to those of the second electronic device 200 according to the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0137] The control unit 250 controls the operation of the second electronic device 200. The control unit 250 includes an acquisition unit 251, a generation unit 252, an identification unit 253, a transmission unit 254, and a verification unit 255. That is, the control unit 250 also includes a verification unit 255. The verification unit 255 is implemented by, for example, a CPU, an MPU, etc. The verification unit 255 can be implemented using integrated circuits such as ASICs and FPGAs.

[0138] Verification unit 255 verifies the transaction data D1 acquired by acquisition unit 251 from the first electronic device 100, etc. For example, verification unit 255 acquires management data 410 or exclusion identification information from the server 400, etc., and stores the management data or exclusion identification information in storage unit 240. Verification unit 255 determines whether the identification information of transaction data D1 matches the exclusion identification information. Verification unit 255 sets the transaction data D1 of the first electronic device 100 indicated by the identification information that matches the exclusion identification information as an exclusion object. Verification unit 255 provides information indicating the verification result to generation unit 252. Note that when the transaction data D1 of the first electronic device 100 is identified as an exclusion object, verification unit 255 may then ignore the transaction data D1 from the first electronic device 100.

[0139] The generation unit 252 excludes the transaction data D1 of the first electronic device 100 that is set as the exclusion object by the verification unit 255, and generates transaction data D1 of the host device that does not include the corresponding transaction data D1 or does not generate transaction data D1 of the host device.

[0140] [Processing procedure of the second electronic device according to the second embodiment]

[0141] Next, we will refer to Figure 15 An example describing the processing procedure of the second electronic device 200 according to the second embodiment. Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed by the second electronic device 200 according to the second embodiment. When the control unit 250 of the second electronic device 200 executes the program, it implements... Figure 15 The processing procedure is shown. Control unit 250 executes this process repeatedly. Figure 15 The processing procedure is shown.

[0142] like Figure 15 As shown, the control unit 250 of the second electronic device 200 acquires transaction data D1 from another electronic device (step S11). Then, the control unit 250 verifies the acquired transaction data D1 based on management data 410 (step S21). For example, the control unit 250 verifies the transaction data D1 by referring to management data 410, exclusion identification information, etc., and stores the verification result in the storage unit 240. When the processing in step S21 is completed, the control unit 250 advances the processing to step S22.

[0143] Control unit 250 determines whether the transaction data is to be excluded (step S22). Examples of data to be excluded include data from electronic devices set as exclusion targets, transaction data D1 including data from electronic devices as exclusion targets, etc. Examples of exclusion targets include electronic devices that have been used for many years, faulty electronic devices, and electronic devices whose use is not guaranteed, etc. For example, when the identification information of transaction data D1 matches the exclusion identification information, control unit 250 determines that the corresponding transaction data D1 is to be excluded. When it is determined that the transaction data is to be excluded (Yes in step S22), control unit 250 ends. Figure 15 The processing procedure shown does not generate transaction data D1 for the host device.

[0144] Furthermore, when it is determined that the transaction data is not the data to be excluded (No in step S22), the control unit 250 will proceed to step S12. The control unit 250 generates transaction data D1 for the host device (step S12). The control unit 250 identifies the blockchain in which the transaction data D1 will be recorded (step S13). Based on the identification result of step S13, the control unit 250 determines whether the first blockchain 500A has been identified (step S14). When it is determined that the first blockchain 500A has been identified (Yes in step S14), the control unit 250 will proceed to step S15. The control unit 250 transmits the generated transaction data D1 to the node device 700 of the first blockchain 500A (step S15). Then, when the processing of step S15 ends, the control unit 250 terminates. Figure 15 The processing procedure is shown.

[0145] Furthermore, when it is determined that the first blockchain 500A is not identified (No in step S14), the control unit 250 proceeds to step S16. The control unit 250 transmits the generated transaction data D1 to the node device 700 of the second blockchain 500B (step S16). Then, when the processing in step S16 is completed, the control unit 250 terminates the process. Figure 15 The processing procedure is shown.

[0146] exist Figure 15 In the example of the processing procedure shown, the control unit 250 of the second electronic device 200 functions as the acquisition unit 251 by executing step S11. The control unit 250 functions as the generation unit 252 by executing step S12. The control unit 250 functions as the identification unit 253 by executing step S13. The control unit 250 functions as the transmission unit 254 by executing steps S15 and S16. The control unit 250 functions as the verification unit 255 by executing step S21.

[0147] As described above, the second electronic device 200 according to the second embodiment verifies data obtained from the first electronic device 100, etc., based on identification information included in the data. As a result, the second electronic device 200 can generate transaction data D1 for the host device that does not include data from faulty first electronic devices 100, expired first electronic devices 100, etc. Consequently, the second electronic device 200 can ensure the authenticity of the data to be recorded in the block by recording the generated legitimate transaction data D1 in the blockchain. Therefore, the second electronic device 200 can help improve the robustness of the blockchain.

[0148] Note that the second embodiment described above is an example, and various modifications and applications are possible. The second electronic device 200 of the second embodiment can be applied to other embodiments, etc.

[0149] Furthermore, assuming the use of blockchain, the second electronic device 200 according to the first and second embodiments can streamline or compress the data included in transaction data D1. For example, if the data from the first electronic device 100 remains unchanged within a specific time period, the second electronic device 200 can compress the data by including data indicating the unchanged time zone in transaction data D1 without including the data itself. For example, the second electronic device 200 can compress the data by performing statistical processing on the data from the first electronic device 100 and including data indicating the statistical results in transaction data D1. For example, the second electronic device 200 can compress the data by including hash values, etc., of the data from the first electronic device 100 in transaction data D1.

[0150] [Hardware Configuration]

[0151] As an information processing device for the second electronic device 200 according to the above embodiment, it may be, for example, having such Figure 16 The computer 1000 with the configuration shown is implemented. Hereinafter, a second electronic device 200 according to an embodiment will be described as an example. Figure 16 This is a hardware configuration diagram illustrating an example of a computer 1000 that implements the functions of an information processing device. The computer 1000 includes a CPU 1100, RAM 1200, read-only memory (ROM) 1300, hard disk drive (HDD) 1400, communication interface 1500, and input / output interface 1600. Each unit of the computer 1000 is connected via a bus 1050.

[0152] The CPU 1100 operates based on programs stored in ROM 1300 or HDD 1400 and controls each unit. For example, the CPU 1100 expands programs stored in ROM 1300 or HDD 1400 into RAM 1200 and executes processing corresponding to various programs.

[0153] ROM 1300 stores boot programs, such as the Basic Input / Output System (BIOS) executed by CPU 1100 when computer 1000 starts up, and programs that depend on the hardware of computer 1000.

[0154] HDD 1400 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records programs executed by CPU 1100, data used by the program, etc. Specifically, HDD 1400 is a recording medium that records an information processing program according to the present disclosure, which is an example of program data 1450.

[0155] Communication interface 1500 is an interface for connecting computer 1000 to an external network 1550 (e.g., the Internet). For example, CPU 1100 receives data from other devices or transmits data generated by CPU 1100 to other devices via communication interface 1500.

[0156] Input / output interface 1600 is an interface for connecting input / output device 1650 and computer 1000. For example, CPU 1100 receives data from input devices such as keyboard and mouse via input / output interface 1600. Furthermore, CPU 1100 transmits data to output devices such as display, speakers, and printer via input / output interface 1600. Additionally, input / output interface 1600 can be used as a media interface for reading programs recorded on a predetermined recording medium. Such media include, for example, optical recording media (e.g., digital multifunction disc (DVD)), magneto-optical recording media (e.g., magneto-optical disc (MO)), magnetic tape media, magnetic recording media, semiconductor memory, etc.

[0157] For example, when computer 1000 is used as a second electronic device 200 according to an embodiment, the CPU 1100 of computer 1000 executes a program loaded on RAM 1200 to implement the functions of the acquisition unit 251, generation unit 252, identification unit 253, transmission unit 254, verification unit 255, etc. of control unit 250. Furthermore, HDD 1400 stores the program or data according to this disclosure in storage unit 240. Note that CPU 1100 reads and executes program data 1450 from HDD 1400; however, as another example, CPU 1100 may obtain these programs from other devices via external network 1550.

[0158] Although preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to these examples. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be found within the scope of the technical concept described in the claims, and it should be understood that such changes and modifications will naturally fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0159] Furthermore, the effects described in this specification are merely illustrative or exemplary, and not restrictive. That is, in addition to or instead of the effects described above, the technology of this disclosure may exhibit other effects that will be obvious to those skilled in the art, based on the description in this specification.

[0160] In addition, a program can be created to enable hardware such as the CPU, ROM and RAM built into the computer to perform the same functions as the configuration in the second electronic device 200, and a computer-readable recording medium recording the program can also be provided.

[0161] Furthermore, the various steps related to the processing of the second electronic device 200 in this specification need not be processed in the order described in the flowchart in a chronological sequence. For example, the steps related to the processing of the second electronic device 200 may be processed in a different order than that described in the flowchart, or they may be processed in parallel.

[0162] Furthermore, while the invention has described the case where the information processing device is implemented by the second electronic device 200, the invention is not limited thereto. The information processing device can be implemented by, for example, a communication device, a server, a control unit, etc.

[0163] (Effect)

[0164] The second electronic device 200 includes: an acquisition unit 251, which acquires first data from the electronic device including identification information of the first electronic device 100 or another second electronic device 200; a generation unit 252, which generates transaction data D1 including the first data; and an identification unit 253, which identifies, based on the type of the generated transaction data D1, the blockchain in which the generated transaction data D1 will be recorded.

[0165] As a result, the second electronic device 200 can generate transaction data D1 including first data obtained from the electronic device, and identify the blockchain from multiple blockchains that needs to be recorded based on the type of transaction data D1. Consequently, the second electronic device 200 can record transaction data D1, including identification information of the electronic device, in a blockchain suitable for that type, and thus ensure the authenticity of data recorded on multiple types of blockchains.

[0166] In the second electronic device 200, multiple blockchains include a public first blockchain 500A and a consortium second blockchain 500B. When the generated transaction data D1 is non-confidential, the identification unit 253 identifies the first blockchain 500A, and when the generated transaction data D1 is confidential, it identifies the second blockchain 500B.

[0167] As a result, the second electronic device 200 can identify the recording destination of non-confidential transaction data D1 as the first blockchain and the recording destination of confidential transaction data D1 as the second blockchain. Consequently, the second electronic device 200 can record transaction data D1 suitable for blockchains, and therefore, the management of various types of blockchains can be simplified.

[0168] In the second electronic device 200, the first data includes second data acquired by the electronic device from another electronic device. When the first data includes the second data, the identification unit 253 will identify the generated transaction data D1, which will be recorded in the blockchain, as the second blockchain 500B.

[0169] As a result, when the first data includes second data from another electronic device, the second electronic device 200 can identify the recording destination of transaction data D1 as a second blockchain 500B with a higher data processing capability than the first blockchain 500A. Consequently, the second electronic device 200 can record transaction data D1 suitable for the processing capability of the blockchain, and therefore, can suppress the processing load used to manage the blockchain.

[0170] In the second electronic device 200, the second data is second transaction data that includes second identification information and second key information of another electronic device.

[0171] As a result, the second electronic device 200 can identify the second blockchain 500B, which has high data processing capabilities, as the recording destination for transaction data D1, in which transaction data D1 of another electronic device has already been encapsulated. Consequently, the second electronic device 200 can record transaction data D1, which includes multiple data from multiple electronic devices, in the second blockchain 500B, thus reducing the processing load used to manage the first blockchain 500A.

[0172] In the second electronic device 200, the generation unit 252 generates transaction data D1 that includes identification information associated with device information about another electronic device.

[0173] As a result, the second electronic device 200 can associate the device information of the electronic device with the identification information of the transaction data D1, and record the transaction data D1, which allows it to grasp the status of the relevant electronic device, in the blockchain. Consequently, the second electronic device 200 can record a mechanism that determines the validity of the transaction data D1 in the blockchain by obtaining the status of the electronic device related to the data from the identification information of the transaction data D1.

[0174] The second electronic device 200 also includes a storage unit 240 for storing identification information of the host device, and a generation unit 252 for generating transaction data D1 including the identification information of the host device.

[0175] As a result, the second electronic device 200 can generate transaction data D1 that includes the identification information of the host device and the identification information of the other electronic device. Consequently, the second electronic device 200 can record a mechanism that allows it to track the transmission path of transaction data D1 based on the identification information in the blockchain by including the identification information of the host device and the other electronic device in the transaction data D1.

[0176] In the second electronic device 200, the storage unit 240 also stores the key information of the host device, and the generation unit 252 generates anonymous transaction data D1 based on the first data, the identification information of the host device, and the key information. When transaction data D1 is anonymized, the identification unit 253 identifies the blockchain in which transaction data D1 is recorded as at least one of the first blockchain 500A and the second blockchain 500B. When transaction data D1 is not anonymized, the identification unit 253 identifies the blockchain in which transaction data D1 is recorded as the second blockchain 500B.

[0177] As a result, the second electronic device 200 can identify the recording destination of anonymized transaction data D1 as at least one of the first blockchain 500A and the second blockchain 500B, and identify the recording destination of unanonymized transaction data D1 as the second blockchain 500B. Consequently, the second electronic device 200 can record transaction data D1 in a blockchain suitable for it, and thus, simplifies the management of various types of blockchains.

[0178] In the second electronic device 200, when the transaction data D1 is data in a compressed format or data that includes a portion of the first data, the identification unit 253 identifies the blockchain in which the transaction data D1 is recorded as the first blockchain 500A.

[0179] As a result, the second electronic device 200 can record transaction data D1 with a suppressed amount of data in the first blockchain 500A. Consequently, the second electronic device 200 can suppress the increase in processing load on the first blockchain 500A, whose processing capacity is lower than that of the second blockchain 500B.

[0180] In the second electronic device 200, the storage unit 240 includes setting information 244, which indicates the blockchain in which transaction data D1 will be recorded. The generation unit 252 generates transaction data D1 based on the setting information 244, which includes information indicating the blockchain to be recorded, and when the information indicating the blockchain to be recorded is included in the transaction data, the identification unit 253 identifies the blockchain indicated by the information.

[0181] As a result, the second electronic device 200 can specify a blockchain as the recording destination by including information indicating the blockchain for recording in the transaction data D1. Consequently, the second electronic device 200 can record the transaction data D1 in any blockchain set by the electronic device, thus improving convenience.

[0182] In the second electronic device 200, when there is a contradiction in the information of the blockchain used for recording, the identification unit 253 identifies the blockchain in which the transaction data D1 will be recorded based on a preset priority.

[0183] As a result, when there are contradictions in the information indicating the blockchain used for recording, the second electronic device 200 can identify the blockchain as the recording destination of transaction data D1 based on priority. Consequently, the second electronic device 200 can record multiple pieces of transaction data D1, including data from multiple electronic devices, in the blockchain according to priority, thus enabling efficient use of transaction data D1.

[0184] The second electronic device 200 also includes a transmission unit 254 that transmits transaction data D1 to a blockchain node device 700 identified by the identification unit 253.

[0185] As a result, the second electronic device 200 can transmit transaction data D1 to the blockchain node device 700 identified by the identification unit 253. Consequently, the second electronic device 200 can record transaction data D1 suitable for the blockchain in the node device 700, and thus, the authenticity of the data recorded in various types of blockchains can be ensured.

[0186] In the second electronic device 200, the transmission unit 254 transmits the transaction data D1 generated by the generation unit 252 to another electronic device on the transmission path.

[0187] As a result, the second electronic device 200 can use the transmission unit 254 to transmit the transaction data D1 generated by the generation unit 252 as the first data to another electronic device on the transmission path. Consequently, the second electronic device 200 can include the transaction data D1 of the host device in the transaction data D1 of the other electronic device, and therefore, the encapsulated transaction data D1 can be recorded in any blockchain.

[0188] In the second electronic device 200, the transmission unit 254 transmits transaction data D1 at a time different from that of other electronic devices.

[0189] As a result, the second electronic device 200 can use the transmission unit 254 to transmit the transaction data D1 generated by the generation unit 252 at a timing different from that of some or all other electronic devices. Consequently, the second electronic device 200 can allocate the transmission timing of the transaction data D1 to the transmission timing of other electronic devices, thereby facilitating smooth transmission processing.

[0190] The second electronic device 200 further includes a verification unit 255 for verifying the acquired first data, and a generation unit 252 generates transaction data D1 including the first data verified by the verification unit 255.

[0191] As a result, the second electronic device 200 can generate transaction data D1 that includes first data verified by the verification unit 255. Consequently, the second electronic device 200 can record the transaction data D1 based on the verification data in the blockchain, thus ensuring the authenticity of the data to be recorded in the block.

[0192] In the second electronic device 200, when the first data to be verified is not the data to be excluded, the generation unit 252 generates transaction data including the first data, and when the first data to be verified is the data to be excluded, no transaction data is generated.

[0193] As a result, the second electronic device 200 can generate transaction data D1 that does not include the data to be excluded. Consequently, the second electronic device 200 can record the transaction data D1, which does not include the data to be excluded, in the blockchain, thus ensuring the authenticity of the data to be recorded in the block.

[0194] A computer-executed information processing method includes: acquiring first data including identification information of an electronic device from an electronic device; generating transaction data D1 including the first data; and identifying, based on the type of the generated transaction data, the blockchain in which the generated transaction data D1 will be recorded.

[0195] As a result, the information processing method enables a computer to perform the following processes: generating transaction data D1, which includes first data obtained from an electronic device; and identifying the blockchain for recording from multiple blockchains based on the type of transaction data D1. Consequently, this information processing method allows transaction data D1, including identification information of the electronic device, to be recorded in a blockchain suitable for that type, and thus ensures the authenticity of data recorded in multiple types of blockchains.

[0196] The program is a program for enabling a computer to perform the following operations: acquiring first data including identification information of an electronic device from an electronic device; generating transaction data D1 including the first data; and identifying, based on the type of the generated transaction data D1, the blockchain in which the generated transaction data D1 will be recorded.

[0197] As a result, the program enables the computer to perform the following processes: generating transaction data D1, which includes first data acquired from the first electronic device 100; and identifying the blockchain to be recorded from multiple blockchains based on the type of transaction data D1. Consequently, the program enables the computer to record transaction data D1, including identification information of the electronic device, in a blockchain suitable for that type, and thus ensures the authenticity of the data recorded in multiple types of blockchains.

[0198] Note that the following configurations also fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0199] (1) An information processing device, comprising:

[0200] The acquisition unit acquires first data, including the identification information of the electronic device, from the electronic device;

[0201] A generation unit generates transaction data including first data; and

[0202] An identification unit, based on the type of the generated transaction data, identifies the blockchain in which the generated transaction data will be recorded among multiple blockchains.

[0203] (2) The information processing device according to (1), wherein,

[0204] The multiple blockchains include a first blockchain of a public type and a second blockchain of a consortium type, and

[0205] The identification unit is used to identify the first blockchain when the generated transaction data is non-confidential, and to identify the second blockchain when the generated transaction data is confidential.

[0206] (3) The information processing device according to (2), wherein,

[0207] The first data includes second data acquired by the electronic device from other electronic devices, and

[0208] When the first data includes the second data, the transaction data generated by the identification unit will be identified as the second blockchain by the blockchain in which it is recorded.

[0209] (4) The information processing device according to (3), wherein,

[0210] The second data is second transaction data that includes second identification information and second key information of another electronic device.

[0211] (5) The information processing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein,

[0212] The generation unit generates transaction data that includes identification information associated with device information about the electronic device.

[0213] (6) The information processing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (5) further includes:

[0214] Storage unit, the storage unit stores the identification information of the host device,

[0215] The generation unit generates transaction data that includes the identification information of the host device.

[0216] (7) The information processing device according to (6), wherein,

[0217] The storage unit also stores the host device's key information.

[0218] The generation unit generates anonymized transaction data based on the first data and the identification and key information of the host device, and

[0219] When the transaction data is anonymized, the identification unit identifies the blockchain in which the transaction data will be recorded as at least one of a first blockchain and a second blockchain; and when the transaction data is not anonymized, the identification unit identifies the blockchain in which the transaction data will be recorded as a second blockchain.

[0220] (8) The information processing device according to (5), wherein,

[0221] When the transaction data is in a compressed format or includes a portion of the first data, the identification unit will identify the blockchain in which the transaction data is recorded as the first blockchain.

[0222] (9) The information processing device according to (6), wherein,

[0223] The storage unit includes setup information for a blockchain that indicates where transaction data will be recorded.

[0224] The generation unit generates transaction data based on the setting information, including information indicating the blockchain for recording, and

[0225] When the information indicating the blockchain used for recording is included in the transaction data, the identification unit identifies the blockchain indicated by the information.

[0226] (10) The information processing device according to (9), wherein,

[0227] When there is a contradiction in the information indicating the blockchain to be recorded, the identification unit identifies the blockchain in which the transaction data will be recorded based on a preset priority.

[0228] (11) The information processing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (10) further comprises:

[0229] A transmission unit that transmits transaction data to a blockchain node device identified by an identification unit.

[0230] (12) The information processing device according to (11), wherein,

[0231] The transmission unit transmits the transaction data generated by the generation unit to another electronic device among multiple electronic devices on the transmission path.

[0232] (13) The information processing device according to (12), wherein,

[0233] The transmission unit transmits transaction data at a timing that differs from that of another electronic device among the plurality of electronic devices.

[0234] (14) The information processing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (13) further includes

[0235] Verification unit, the verification unit verifies the acquired first data.

[0236] The generation unit generates transaction data that includes first data verified by the verification unit.

[0237] (15) The information processing device according to (14), wherein,

[0238] The generation unit generates transaction data including the first data when the first data being verified is not the data to be excluded, and does not generate transaction data when the first data being verified is the data to be excluded.

[0239] (16) An information processing method executed by a computer, comprising:

[0240] Obtain first data, including the identification information of the electronic device, from the electronic device;

[0241] Generate transaction data including the first data; and

[0242] Based on the type of transaction data generated, the blockchain in which the generated transaction data will be recorded is identified among multiple blockchains.

[0243] (17) A program for enabling a computer to:

[0244] Obtain first data, including the identification information of the electronic device, from the electronic device;

[0245] Generate transaction data including the first data; and

[0246] Based on the type of transaction data generated, the blockchain in which the generated transaction data will be recorded is identified among multiple blockchains.

[0247] (18) A verification apparatus, comprising:

[0248] Extraction unit, which extracts target data to be verified from the blockchain; and

[0249] The verification unit compares the identification information of the electronic device included in the extracted target data with the exclusion target identification information, and verifies the target data based on the comparison result.

[0250] (19) An information processing system, comprising: a first electronic device and a second electronic device, wherein the first electronic device transmits first data including identification information.

[0251] The second electronic device includes:

[0252] The acquisition unit acquires first data from the first electronic device;

[0253] A generation unit generates transaction data including first data; and

[0254] An identification unit, based on the type of the generated transaction data, identifies the blockchain in which the generated transaction data will be recorded among multiple blockchains.

[0255] List of reference numerals

[0256] 1. Information Processing System

[0257] 100 First Electronic Device

[0258] 110 sensor unit

[0259] 120 communication units

[0260] 130 storage units

[0261] 131 Identification Information

[0262] 132 public key information

[0263] 133 private key information

[0264] 140 control unit

[0265] 200 Second Electronic Device

[0266] 210 display unit

[0267] 220 input unit

[0268] 230 communication units

[0269] 240 storage units

[0270] 241 Identification Information

[0271] 242 Public Key Information

[0272] 243 Private Key Information

[0273] 244 Settings Information

[0274] 250 control unit

[0275] 251 Acquisition Unit

[0276] 252 generation units

[0277] 253 recognition units

[0278] 254 transmission units

[0279] 255 verification units

[0280] 400 server

[0281] 500A First Blockchain

[0282] 500B Second Blockchain

[0283] 600A and 600B Blockchain Networks

[0284] 700-node device

[0285] 800 verification device

[0286] D1 and D2 transaction data

Claims

1. An information processing device, comprising: The acquisition unit acquires first data, including the identification information of the electronic device, from the electronic device; The generation unit generates transaction data including the first data; as well as The identification unit, based on the type of the generated transaction data, identifies the blockchain among multiple blockchains from which the generated transaction data will be recorded. The multiple blockchains include a first blockchain of a public type and a second blockchain of a consortium type, and The identification unit identifies the first blockchain when the generated transaction data is non-confidential, and identifies the second blockchain when the generated transaction data is confidential. The first data includes second data acquired by the electronic device from another electronic device, and When the first data includes the second data, the identification unit will identify the generated transaction data as the second blockchain, as the blockchain in which it is recorded. The second data is second transaction data that includes the second identification information and the second key information of the other electronic device.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein, The generation unit generates the transaction data, which includes the identification information associated with device information about the electronic device.

3. The information processing device according to claim 2, further comprising: Storage unit, storing the identification information of the host device. The generation unit generates the transaction data, which includes the identification information of the host device.

4. The information processing device according to claim 3, wherein, The storage unit also stores the key information of the host device. The generation unit generates anonymized transaction data based on the first data and the identification and key information of the host device, and When the transaction data is anonymized, the identification unit identifies the blockchain in which the transaction data will be recorded as at least one of the first blockchain and the second blockchain; and when the transaction data is not anonymized, the identification unit identifies the blockchain in which the transaction data will be recorded as the second blockchain.

5. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein, When the transaction data is in a compressed format or includes a portion of the first data, the identification unit identifies the blockchain in which the transaction data will be recorded as the first blockchain.

6. The information processing device according to claim 3, wherein, The storage unit includes blockchain setup information that indicates the transaction data will be recorded therein. The generation unit generates the transaction data based on the setting information, including information indicating the blockchain for recording, and When the information indicating the blockchain used for recording is included in the transaction data, the identification unit identifies the blockchain indicated by the information.

7. The information processing device according to claim 6, wherein, When there is a contradiction in the information indicating the blockchain to be recorded, the identification unit identifies the blockchain in which the transaction data will be recorded based on a preset priority.

8. The information processing device according to claim 2, further comprising: The transmission unit transmits the transaction data to a blockchain node device identified by the identification unit.

9. The information processing device according to claim 8, wherein, The transmission unit transmits the transaction data generated by the generation unit to another electronic device among multiple electronic devices on the transmission path.

10. The information processing device according to claim 9, wherein, The transmission unit transmits the transaction data at a timing different from that of the other electronic device among the plurality of electronic devices.

11. The information processing device according to claim 2, further comprising: The verification unit verifies the acquired first data. The generation unit generates the transaction data, which includes the first data verified by the verification unit.

12. The information processing device according to claim 11, wherein, The generation unit generates transaction data including the first data when the first data is verified to be data to be excluded, and does not generate the transaction data when the first data is verified to be data to be excluded.

13. An information processing method executed by a computer, comprising: First data, including the identification information of the electronic device, is obtained from the electronic device; Generate transaction data that includes the first data; and Based on the type of the generated transaction data, identify the blockchain from among multiple blockchains that will record the generated transaction data. The multiple blockchains include a first blockchain of a public type and a second blockchain of a consortium type, and When the generated transaction data is non-confidential, the first blockchain is identified; and when the generated transaction data is confidential, the second blockchain is identified. The first data includes second data acquired by the electronic device from another electronic device, and When the first data includes the second data, the generated transaction data will be identified as the second blockchain by the blockchain in which it is recorded. The second data is second transaction data that includes the second identification information and the second key information of the other electronic device.

14. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to perform: First data, including the identification information of the electronic device, is obtained from the electronic device; Generate transaction data including the first data; and Based on the type of the generated transaction data, identify the blockchain from among multiple blockchains that will record the generated transaction data. The multiple blockchains include a first blockchain of a public type and a second blockchain of a consortium type, and When the generated transaction data is non-confidential, the first blockchain is identified; and when the generated transaction data is confidential, the second blockchain is identified. The first data includes second data acquired by the electronic device from another electronic device, and When the first data includes the second data, the generated transaction data will be identified as the second blockchain by the blockchain in which it is recorded. The second data is second transaction data that includes the second identification information and the second key information of the other electronic device.

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