Block generation method, block generation device, and program

Abstract

A block generation method, which is performed by a block generation device that generates a block of a block chain, comprises: obtaining transaction data including a power saving request for power required for a generation process relating to the generation of a block in the block generation device (100) (S108); the generation process is executed with the power consumption satisfying the power saving request (S111).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a block generation method, a block generation device, and a program. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technology that uses PoW (Proof of Work) to generate blocks in a blockchain.

[0003] (Prior art literature)

[0004] (Patent Document)

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-546773 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] The present disclosure aims to provide a block generation method, etc., which is capable of adjusting the power consumption required for the process of adding a block to a blockchain according to a power saving request.

[0008] Means for solving problems

[0009] A block generation method involved in one embodiment of the present disclosure is a block generation method performed by a block generation device for generating a block of a blockchain. In the block generation method, transaction data including a power saving request is obtained. The power saving request is a power saving request for power required for a generation process related to the generation of the block in the block generation device, and the generation process is performed with power consumption that satisfies the power saving request.

[0010] In addition, these general or specific methods can be implemented by systems, devices, integrated circuits, computer programs, or computer-readable recording media such as CD-ROMs, or by any combination of systems, devices, integrated circuits, computer programs, or recording media.

[0011] Effects of the Invention

[0012] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to adjust the power consumption required for the process of adding a block to a blockchain according to a power saving request. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 An example of the configuration of the management system according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0014] Figure 2 An example of the configuration of the block generation device according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0015] Figure 3This is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of a generation process corresponding to a power saving request in the management system according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of a generation process corresponding to a power saving request in a management system according to a modification of the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 An example of the configuration of a block generation device according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a table showing an example of difficulty level information.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of a generation process corresponding to a power saving request in the management system according to the second embodiment.

[0020] Figure 8 An example of the configuration of a management system according to another embodiment is shown.

[0021] Fig. 9 This is an explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the blockchain.

[0022] Fig.10 It is an explanatory diagram showing the data structure of transaction data. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] (Becomes the basic knowledge of this disclosure)

[0024] The process of adding blocks to the blockchain for NFT (Non-Fungible Token) transactions generates a large amount of power consumption. When PoW described in Patent Document 1 is used to generate blocks, it is expected that the total amount of power consumption will increase. This is due to the increase in the number of participating nodes, and the increase in the total amount of computing resources and the increase in the number of participating nodes. The calculation amount of the approval program will also increase.

[0025] Furthermore, even if PoS (Proof of Stake) is used to generate blocks, which takes environmental load into consideration, NFT (Non-Fungible Token) transactions also consume a large amount of electricity. Therefore, there is no mechanism designed to temporarily reduce the power consumption of the entire blockchain system network.

[0026] The inventors of the present invention have found that a mechanism is needed to reduce the power consumption of the entire blockchain system network by accepting power saving requests from the management body of the blockchain system, such as power companies or mining companies. In other words, the inventors of the present invention have found the following block generation method, etc., which can adjust the power consumption required for the process of adding blocks to the blockchain according to the power saving request.

[0027] The block generation method involved in the first embodiment of the present disclosure is a block generation method performed by a block generation device for generating blocks of a blockchain. In the block generation method, transaction data including a power saving request is obtained. The power saving request is a power saving request for the power required for a generation process related to the generation of the block in the block generation device, and the generation process is performed to satisfy the power consumption of the power saving request.

[0028] This allows the generation process to be performed in a manner that satisfies the power saving request, thereby reducing the power consumption of the entire blockchain system.

[0029] The block generation method involved in the second embodiment of the present disclosure is a block generation method based on the first embodiment. In the block generation method, it is further determined whether the block generation device has the first authority to add a new block to the blockchain, and the generation process is started when it is determined that the block generation device has the first authority.

[0030] This can reduce the power consumption of the block generation device having the first authority to add a new block to the blockchain.

[0031] The block generation method according to the third aspect of the present disclosure is a block generation method based on the second aspect, wherein the generation process is started when the generation process can be performed with the power consumption.

[0032] Thus, a new block can be added to the blockchain by a block generation device that can perform generation processing with power consumption that meets the power saving request. Accordingly, since the generation processing is performed by a block generation device that can reduce power consumption, the power consumption of the entire blockchain system can be effectively reduced.

[0033] The block generation method involved in the fourth embodiment of the present invention is a block generation method based on the third embodiment, and in the judgment, (i) based on the power saving request, the target value of the power consumption required for the generation process and the predicted power consumption required for the generation process are calculated, and (ii) when the predicted power consumption is below the target value, it is judged that the generation process can be performed with the power consumption.

[0034] Thus, a new block can be added to the blockchain by a block generation device that can reduce the predicted power consumption required for the generation process to below the target power consumption value. Accordingly, since the generation process is performed by a block generation device that can reduce power consumption, the power consumption of the entire blockchain system can be effectively reduced.

[0035] The block generation method involved in the 5th mode of the present disclosure is a block generation method based on any one of the 2nd to 4th modes, and in the judgment, further, when the generation processing can be performed with the power consumption, it is judged whether the block generation device has the second authority to add a new block to the blockchain, and the generation processing is started when it is judged that the block generation device has the first authority and the second authority and can perform the generation processing with the power consumption.

[0036] This can reduce the power consumption of the block generation device that also has the second authority to add new blocks to the blockchain.

[0037] The block generation method involved in the sixth aspect of the present disclosure is a block generation method based on the fifth aspect, and the block generation device with the second authority is randomly determined from one or more block generation devices with the first authority and capable of performing the generation process with the power consumption.

[0038] Thus, when there is one or more block generation devices that can execute generation processing with power consumption that satisfies the power saving request, it is possible to determine a block generation device that can add a new block to the blockchain.

[0039] The block generation method involved in the seventh embodiment of the present disclosure is a block generation method based on the first embodiment, and in the block generation method, the difficulty of mining is further adjusted based on the power saving request, and the generation process is performed based on the adjusted difficulty of mining.

[0040] Since the lower the difficulty of mining, the smaller the processing load required for mining, the smaller the power consumption required for mining. Therefore, by adjusting the difficulty of mining according to the power saving request, the power consumption required for the generation process can be adjusted.

[0041] The block generation method involved in the 8th mode of the present disclosure is a block generation method based on the 7th mode, and the transaction data also includes difficulty information showing the relationship between the power saving request and the difficulty of mining. In the adjustment, the difficulty of mining is adjusted based on the power saving request and the difficulty information.

[0042] Thus, since the difficulty of mining according to the power saving request can be appropriately determined based on the difficulty information, the power consumption required for the generation process can be reduced according to the power saving request.

[0043] The block generation method involved in the 9th aspect of the present disclosure is a block generation method based on the 8th aspect, and in the adjustment, the difficulty is adjusted to be lower as the shortage of power supply to the area where the block generation device is located increases.

[0044] This makes it possible to reduce the power consumption of the block generation device according to the shortage of power supply to the area where the block generation device is located.

[0045] The block generation method involved in the 10th embodiment of the present disclosure is a block generation method based on the 8th embodiment or the 9th embodiment, and the difficulty information shows the degree of decrease in the difficulty of mining when the power supply in the area where the block generation device is located is insufficient, and shows the degree of increase in the difficulty of mining when the power supply is not insufficient.

[0046] Thereby, the power consumption of the block generation device can be adjusted according to whether the power supply to the area where the block generation device is located is insufficient.

[0047] The block generation device involved in the 11th method of the present disclosure is a block generation device for generating blocks of a blockchain, and the block generation device comprises: an acquisition unit that obtains transaction data including a power saving request, wherein the power saving request is a power saving request for the power required for the generation processing related to the generation of the block in the block generation device; and a block generation unit that performs the generation processing with a power consumption that satisfies the power saving request.

[0048] This allows the generation process to be performed in a manner that satisfies the power saving request, thereby reducing the power consumption of the entire blockchain system.

[0049] A program according to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure is a program for causing a computer to execute the block generation method according to any one of the first to tenth aspects.

[0050] In addition, these general or specific methods can be implemented by systems, devices, integrated circuits, computer programs, or computer-readable recording media such as CD-ROMs, or by any combination of systems, devices, integrated circuits, computer programs, and recording media.

[0051] The following describes the implementation mode with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the implementation modes to be described below are all specific examples of the present disclosure. That is to say, the numerical values, shapes, materials, constituent elements, configuration positions of constituent elements, connection methods, steps, order of steps, etc. shown in the following implementation modes are an example, and the main purpose is not to limit the present disclosure. Moreover, for the constituent elements of the following implementation modes that are not recorded in the independent technical solutions showing the highest-level concepts, although they are not necessary for achieving the purpose of the subject of the present disclosure, they will be described as constituent elements constituting a more preferred method.

[0052] (Implementation Method 1)

[0053] First, the system configuration involved in the present disclosure will be described.

[0054] The management system involved in the present disclosure includes a plurality of nodes, and manages a first blockchain on a first distributed ledger of each node. The configuration of the management system involved in this embodiment will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0055] [Management System]

[0056] Figure 1 An example of the configuration of the management system according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0057] like Figure 1 As shown, the management system 1 according to the present embodiment includes, for example, block generation devices 100a to 100c, a power measuring terminal 200, and a management device 300. The management system 1 is a computer system for managing power consumption required for processing from generating a block in the block generation devices 100a to 100c to adding the generated block to a blockchain.

[0058] The block generation devices 100a to 100c, the power measurement terminal 200, and the management device 300 may be connected to each other via a network, and may all be directly connected to enable communication, or may be connected via a network while other parts are directly connected to enable communication. The network may be, for example, the Internet, a carrier network of a mobile phone, or the like, but may also be composed of any communication line or network.

[0059] The block generation devices 100a to 100c are a group of nodes constituting a blockchain network, which is constructed using distributed database technology. The blockchain network constituted by the block generation devices 100a to 100c can be any of a public blockchain network, a private blockchain network, and a consortium blockchain network.

[0060] In addition, although each of the block generation devices 100a to 100c is also referred to as a block generation device 100 below, there is also a case where the block generation devices 100a to 100c are referred to as block generation devices A to C.

[0061] The block generation devices 100a to 100c and the power measurement terminal 200 are installed in the same building 10, and the power measurement terminal 200 measures the power consumption of the block generation devices 100a to 100c in the building 10. In addition, the power measurement terminal 200 only needs to be connected to the block generation devices 100a to 100c in a manner capable of measuring the power consumption of the block generation devices 100a to 100c, and does not need to be installed in the same building 10.

[0062] The management device 300 is provided by the management subject of the blockchain system such as an electric power company or a mining company, and sends a power-saving request for adjusting the power consumption in the building 10 according to the power generated by the equipment of the electric power company (i.e., the power supply) to the power measuring terminal 200. That is, when the management device 300 determines that the power supply is less than the predicted power consumption, it sends a power-saving request for reducing the power consumption to the power measuring terminal 200 of each building 10, thereby suppressing the shortage of power supply relative to the power consumption. In this way, the management device 300 adjusts the power consumption in the building 10 according to the change of the power demand in the building 10, thereby performing a demand response (Demand Response) that can balance the demand and supply of power.

[0063] The block generation device 100 will be described below.

[0064] [Block generation device]

[0065] The block generation device 100 is one block generation device 100 among the block generation devices 100a to 100c. Block generation devices other than the one block generation device 100 among the block generation devices 100a to 100c are referred to as other block generation devices 100. In the present embodiment, the description is made on the assumption that there are a plurality of other block generation devices 100. Therefore, when the other block generation device 100 is referred to as the other block generation device 100, the other block generation device 100 represents a plurality of other block generation devices 100. In addition, the other block generation device 100 is not limited to a plurality and may be one.

[0066] Figure 2 An example of the configuration of the block generation device according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0067] The block generation device 100 has the function of generating blocks of the blockchain. Figure 2As shown, the block generation device 100 includes a communication unit 101, a block generation unit 102, a determination unit 103, and a distributed ledger 104. The block generation device 100 is implemented by a processor executing a predetermined program using a memory. Each component is described below.

[0068] The communication unit 101 performs data transmission and reception with the power measurement terminal 200. For example, the communication unit 101 transmits the power received by the block generation device 100 to the power measurement terminal 200. In addition, the communication unit 101 obtains transaction data including a power saving request for power required for generation processing related to generation of blocks in the block generation device 100 from the power measurement terminal 200. In addition, the communication unit 101 transmits the power consumption in the block generation device 100 to the power measurement terminal 200.

[0069] Furthermore, the communication unit 101 may perform data transmission and reception with other block generation devices 100. For example, in the consensus algorithm, the communication unit 101 may transmit and receive one or more transaction data with other block generation devices 100. Furthermore, the communication unit 101 may perform data transmission and reception with devices (terminals) other than the power measurement terminal 200 and other block generation devices 100.

[0070] In this way, the communication unit 101 communicates with the power measurement terminal 200 and other block generation devices 100. In addition, this communication may be performed using TLS (Transport Layer Security), and the communication unit 101 may hold an encryption key for TLS communication.

[0071] In addition, the communication unit 101 is an example of an acquisition unit.

[0072] The block generation unit 102 performs generation processing related to generation of a block of the blockchain. When the communication unit 101 receives a power saving request, the block generation unit 102 attempts to perform generation processing with a power consumption that satisfies the power saving request.

[0073] Specifically, the block generation unit 102 performs generation processing with PoS. The generation processing is, for example, all or part of the processing from generating a block of the blockchain to adding the block to the blockchain. In PoS, the node (Validator) that generates the next block (new block) is selected based on the number of voting rights in the blockchain network. For example, a node with more tokens (pledged tokens) holds more voting rights and thus has the opportunity to produce more blocks. Based on this, the security of the blockchain can be guaranteed, and the process of generating blocks becomes efficient. The validator node verifies and approves the transaction data, then generates a block and adds the generated block to the blockchain. The generation processing performed by the block generation unit 102 is only started after the result of the judgment by the judgment unit 103 is that the execution of the generation processing is allowed.

[0074] The judgment unit 103 judges whether the block generation device 100 has the first authority to add a new block to the blockchain. The first authority is, for example, the authority for the block generation device 100 to become a validator node. Specifically, the first authority is granted to a block generation device 100 that holds a certain amount of tokens (pledged tokens), so that the block generation device 100 is upgraded to a validator node. In other words, when the block generation device 100 remits a certain amount of tokens to a specified smart contract, it can be upgraded to a validator node. The validator node assumes the obligation to generate blocks in exchange for the authority to generate and approve blocks, and this authority is obtained through lottery. Since the validator node has the obligation to generate blocks, it will be punished if it cannot generate blocks.

[0075] Furthermore, the judgment unit 103 judges whether the generation process in the block generation device 100 can be performed with the power consumption that satisfies the power saving request. Specifically, the judgment unit 103 (i) calculates the target value of the power consumption required for the generation process and the predicted power consumption that is predicted to be required for the generation process based on the power saving request, and (ii) when the predicted power consumption is below the above target value, judges that the generation process can be performed with the power consumption that satisfies the power saving request. Furthermore, when the generation process can be performed with the power consumption that satisfies the power saving request, the judgment unit 103 further judges whether the block generation device 100 has the second authority to add a new block to the blockchain. The block generation device 100 with the second authority is randomly determined from one or more block generation devices 100 that have the first authority and can perform the generation process with the power consumption that satisfies the power saving request. At this time, a predetermined number of block generation devices 100 may also be determined as the block generation device 100 with the second authority. The predetermined number is, for example, a number less than the number of all block generation devices 100 constituting the blockchain system.

[0076] The distributed ledger 104 stores the blockchain.

[0077] [Management system work, etc.]

[0078] Next, the operation of the management system having the above configuration will be described.

[0079] Figure 3 This is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of a generation process corresponding to a power saving request in the management system according to the first embodiment.

[0080] The block generation device A determines whether the block generation device A has the first authority ( S101 ).

[0081] Next, if the block generation device A is determined to have the first authority (“Yes” in S101), it is upgraded to a validator node (S102). If the block generation device A is determined not to have the first authority (“No” in S101), since it does not have the authority to generate a block, the generation process is terminated.

[0082] Each of the block generation device B and the block generation device C also executes the processing of steps S101 and S102 in the same manner as the block generation device A. In the following, the block generation devices A to C are described as block generation devices having the first authority.

[0083] The block generation devices A to C establish communication with the power measurement terminal 200 and notify the power measurement terminal 200 of the power received by each device (S103). The power received is the power currently being used by each of the block generation devices A to C (ie, power consumption).

[0084] Next, the management device 300 determines whether the power supply in the blockchain system is less than the power demand (S104). If the power supply is less than the power demand ("Yes" in S104), a power saving request for saving the insufficient power is sent to the power measurement terminal 200 (S105). The power saving request may include the insufficient power in the blockchain system or the target power consumption value after subtracting the insufficient power consumption from the current power consumption.

[0085] Next, the block generation devices A to C notify the power measurement terminal 200 of the power consumption (S106). In response, the power measurement terminal 200 obtains the power consumption required for the generation process in each of the block generation devices A to C.

[0086] The power measurement terminal 200 calculates a power saving target value (S107) based on the power saving request from the management device 300 and the power consumption required for the generation process in each block generation device A to C. The power saving target value is a target value of power consumption, and if the generation process can be performed with power consumption below the target value, it can be a target value that can satisfy the power saving request from the management device 300.

[0087] Next, the power measurement terminal 200 transmits transaction data including a power saving request including a power saving target value to each of the block generation devices A to C ( S108 ).

[0088] In addition, the processing of steps S103, S106 and S108 is for the validator node and will not be executed in the block generation device that is not a validator node.

[0089] Each of the block generation devices A to C determines whether the power saving target value can be reached (S109). That is, each of the block generation devices A to C determines whether the generation process in the block generation device 100 can be performed to meet the power consumption requested for power saving. For example, each of the block generation devices A to C determines whether the power consumption can meet the power saving request by reducing the power consumption of the block generation process itself or reducing the processing other than the block generation process. Reducing the power consumption of the block generation process itself can also be performed, for example, by switching the processor assigned to perform the block generation process to the most suitable processor in terms of power consumption. For example, it can also be that the processor assigned to perform the block generation process is switched from the GPU to the CPU. Reducing the processing other than the block generation process refers to, for example, putting the software unrelated to the block generation process to sleep or end, or suppressing the operation of the hardware of the block generation device. The hardware is, for example, a cooling fan, and the cooling fan is controlled in a manner to suppress the rotation speed of the fan, thereby suppressing the operation of the hardware.

[0090] When each of the block generation devices A to C determines that the power saving target value can be achieved (Yes in S109 ), each of the block generation devices A to C determines whether or not it has the second authority ( S110 ).

[0091] When each of the block generation devices A to C is determined to have the second authority ("Yes" in S110), it generates and approves the block with the power consumption that satisfies the power saving request (S111). For example, the block generation device A generates a block and sends the generated block to the block generation devices B and C. Then, after the block generation devices A to C are approved, the block is connected to the blockchain. Accordingly, the generated block is added to the blockchain. Here, the added block may also include the following transaction data, namely: transaction data including the power saving request, or transaction data including the power consumption required for the generation process. In this case, the block generation device determined by lottery among the block generation devices A to C generates transaction data including the power saving request or the power consumption required for the generation process, and performs the process of adding the generated transaction data to the block.

[0092] Alternatively, the block generation devices A to C may display the power consumption required for the generation process on a display provided in the management system 1 .

[0093] When each of the block generating devices A to C determines that the power saving target value cannot be achieved (No in S109 ) or determines that the second authority is not possessed (No in S110 ), the generating process is terminated.

[0094] When the block generation device that generates a block among the block generation devices A to C ends step S111, it obtains a reward for generating a block from the blockchain system (S112). In this way, since the reward for generating a block can be obtained from the blockchain system, each block generation device A to C will have a motivation to upgrade to a validator node. Accordingly, the validator node can play a role in reducing the competition for power consumption, and the adjustment of the generation process based on the power saving request can be performed more effectively.

[0095] [Effects, etc.]

[0096] As described above, the block generation device 100 of the management system 1 according to the present embodiment performs the block generation method for generating a block of a blockchain as described below. The block generation device 100 obtains transaction data including a power saving request, which is a request for power required for a generation process related to the generation of a block in the block generation device 100 (S108). The block generation device 100 performs a generation process related to the generation of a block with a power consumption that satisfies the power saving request (S111).

[0097] This allows the generation process to be performed in a manner that satisfies the power saving request, thereby reducing the power consumption of the entire blockchain system.

[0098] Furthermore, the block generation device 100 of the management system 1 according to the present embodiment further determines whether the block generation device 100 has the first authority to add a new block to the blockchain (S101). The generation process in the block generation method is started when it is determined that the block generation device 100 has the first authority.

[0099] This can reduce the power consumption of the block generation device having the first authority to add a new block to the blockchain.

[0100] Furthermore, in the block generation method according to the present embodiment, the generation process is started when the generation process can be performed with the power consumption satisfying the power saving request.

[0101] Thus, a new block can be added to the blockchain by a block generation device that can perform generation processing with power consumption that meets the power saving request. Accordingly, since the generation processing is performed by a block generation device that can reduce power consumption, the power consumption of the entire blockchain system can be effectively reduced.

[0102] Furthermore, in the block generation method involved in the present embodiment, in the judgment, (i) based on the power saving request, the target value of the power consumption required for the generation processing and the predicted power consumption required for the generation processing are calculated, and (ii) when the predicted power consumption is below the target value, it is judged that the generation processing can be performed with the power consumption that satisfies the power saving request.

[0103] Thus, a new block can be added to the blockchain by a block generation device that can reduce the predicted power consumption required for the generation process to below the target power consumption value. Accordingly, since the generation process is performed by a block generation device that can reduce power consumption, the power consumption of the entire blockchain system can be effectively reduced.

[0104] Furthermore, in the block generation method according to the present embodiment, in the judgment, if the generation process can be performed with the power consumption that satisfies the power saving request, it is judged whether the block generation device 100 has the second authority to add a new block to the blockchain (S110). The generation process is started when it is judged that the block generation device 100 has the first authority and the second authority and can perform the generation process with the power consumption that satisfies the power saving request.

[0105] This can reduce the power consumption of the block generation device that also has the second authority to add new blocks to the blockchain.

[0106] Furthermore, in the block generation method according to the present embodiment, the block generation device 100 having the second authority is randomly determined from one or more block generation devices 100 having the first authority and capable of executing generation processing with the power consumption satisfying the power saving request.

[0107] Thus, when there is one or more block generation devices 100 that can execute generation processing with the power consumption satisfying the power saving request, it is possible to determine the block generation device 100 that can add a new block to the blockchain.

[0108] [Variation of Embodiment 1]

[0109] In the above-described first embodiment, although the determination of the validator node that executes the generation and approval of a block is performed by each of the block generation devices A to C, this determination may be performed by the power measurement terminal 200 .

[0110] Figure 4 This is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of a generation process corresponding to a power saving request in a management system according to a modification of the first embodiment.

[0111] Since steps S101 to S105 are the same as the sequence diagram according to Embodiment 1, description thereof will be omitted.

[0112] When the power measurement terminal 200 receives a power saving request from the management device 300, it transmits transaction data including a power saving request based on the received power saving request to each block generation device A to C (S121). This transaction data is the same as the transaction data transmitted in step S108 described above.

[0113] When each of the block generation devices A to C receives the power saving request from the power measurement terminal 200, it notifies the power consumption required for the generation process to the power measurement terminal 200 (S122). This process is the same as step S106.

[0114] The power measurement terminal 200 compares the power consumption of each block generation device A to C with the target value included in the power saving request, and accordingly determines a validator node from the block generation devices A to C (S123). Here, a case where the block generation device A is determined as the validator node but the block generation devices B and C are not determined as the validator nodes is described.

[0115] The power measuring terminal 200 sends a validator delegation (Validator delegation) (S124) to the block generation device A determined as the validator node, and sends a downgrade delegation (S125) to the block generation devices B and C that have not become validator nodes, and the downgrade delegation is a delegation for delegating the loss of authority as a validator node (downgrading from a validator node).

[0116] The block generation device A that receives the verifier delegation maintains the authority as a verifier node (S126), and the block generation devices B and C that receive the downgrade delegation are downgraded from the verifier node and become nodes that do not have the authority as a verifier node (S127).

[0117] The block generation device A determines whether it has the second authority (S128).

[0118] When the block generation device A determines that it has the second authority ("Yes" in S128), it generates and approves the block (S129). Accordingly, the generated block is added to the blockchain. Here, the added block may also include the following transaction data, namely, transaction data including power saving requests or transaction data including power consumption required for generation processing.

[0119] When the block generation device A determines that it does not have the second authority (No in S128), the generation process ends.

[0120] When step S129 is completed, the block generation device A obtains a reward for generating a block from the blockchain system (S130). In this way, since the reward for generating a block can be obtained from the blockchain system, each block generation device A to C will have a motivation to upgrade to a validator node. The validator node can play a role in reducing the competition for power consumption, and the adjustment of the generation process based on the power saving request can be performed more effectively.

[0121] (Implementation Method 2)

[0122] In Embodiment 1, the block generation devices A to C execute the generation process by PoS, but in Embodiment 2, the generation process is executed by PoW. Hereinafter, an example in which the generation process is executed by PoW will be described.

[0123] Figure 5 An example of the configuration of a block generation device according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0124] The block generation device 500 has the function of generating a block of the blockchain. Figure 5As shown, the block generation device 500 includes a communication unit 501, a block generation unit 502, an adjustment unit 503, and a distributed ledger 504. The block generation device 500 can be implemented by a processor executing a predetermined program using a memory. The block generation device 500 is used to replace the block generation device 100 of embodiment 1. The following describes each component.

[0125] The communication unit 501 performs data transmission and reception with the power measurement terminal 200. For example, the communication unit 501 transmits the power received by the block generation device 500 to the power measurement terminal 20. In addition, the communication unit 501 obtains transaction data including a power saving request for power required for the generation process related to the generation of blocks in the block generation device 500 from the power measurement terminal 200. The transaction data may further include difficulty information showing the relationship between the power saving request and the difficulty of mining (see Figure 6 ). In addition, the communication unit 501 transmits the power consumption in the block generation device 500 to the power measurement terminal 200 .

[0126] Furthermore, the communication unit 501 may perform data transmission and reception with other block generation devices 500. For example, in the consensus algorithm, the communication unit 501 transmits and receives one or more transaction data with other block generation devices 500. Furthermore, the communication unit 501 may perform data transmission and reception with devices (terminals) other than the power measurement terminal 200 and other block generation devices 500.

[0127] In this way, the communication unit 501 communicates with the power measurement terminal 200 and other block generation devices 500. In addition, this communication may be performed by TLS (Transport Layer Security), and the communication unit 501 may hold a cryptographic key for TLS communication.

[0128] The block generation unit 502 performs generation processing related to generation of a block of the blockchain. When the communication unit 501 receives a power saving request, the block generation unit 502 attempts to perform generation processing with power consumption that satisfies the power saving request.

[0129] Specifically, the block generation unit 502 performs generation processing with PoW. Generation processing is, for example, all or part of the processing from generating a block of the blockchain to adding the block to the blockchain. PoW is an algorithm for generating a new block on a distributed ledger by competitively solving a problem by nodes (computers) on the blockchain network, thereby performing the proof. Specifically, in order to generate a new block, the nodes on the network input a certain number of values ​​(Nonce: random number) and use the value to perform a hash function. At this time, until the hash value becomes a value smaller than a threshold value corresponding to the difficulty (difficulty of mining), mining is performed in a trial-and-error manner. In this way, the node that discovers the hash value corresponding to the difficulty through mining will obtain the right to generate a new block. The difficulty of mining is adjusted by the adjustment unit 503 described later, and the block generation unit 502 performs generation processing based on the adjusted difficulty of mining.

[0130] The adjustment unit 503 adjusts the difficulty of mining based on the power saving request. Specifically, the adjustment unit 503 adjusts the difficulty of mining based on the power saving request and the difficulty information.

[0131] Figure 6 _ is a table showing an example of difficulty level information. The management system 1 may include a display, and may display the difficulty level information on the display.

[0132] The difficulty information is information that establishes a correspondence between the power usage rate, the power supply shortage, and the difficulty reduction. The difficulty information may not include the power usage rate. The power supply shortage is, for example, the ratio (percentage) of the shortage to the power supply calculated by subtracting the power supply from the power demand. In the case where the power supply shortage is 30%, the difficulty reduction can be calculated to be 2.0%. The difficulty reduction is the reduction relative to the current difficulty when the current difficulty is 100%. In the case of a reduction of 2.0%, the adjusted difficulty becomes 98% of the current difficulty. In addition, in the case of a power shortage of 10%, the difficulty reduction can be calculated to be 0.5%.

[0133] In this way, the adjustment unit 503 adjusts the difficulty of mining based on the difficulty reduction range corresponding to the shortage included in the power saving request, that is, the shortage of power supply in the difficulty information.

[0134] Furthermore, the adjustment unit 503 may adjust the difficulty of mining to be lower as the shortage of power supply in the area where the block generation device 500 is located increases. This is because the lower the difficulty of mining, the less power consumption is required for mining.

[0135] Furthermore, the difficulty information may indicate the extent to which the difficulty of mining decreases when the power supply to the area where the block generation device 500 is located is insufficient, and indicate the extent to which the difficulty of mining increases when the power supply is not insufficient.

[0136] The distributed ledger 504 stores the blockchain.

[0137] Figure 7 This is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of a generation process corresponding to a power saving request in the management system according to the second embodiment.

[0138] The block generation devices A to C establish communication with the power measurement terminal 200 and notify the power measurement terminal 200 of the amount of power received by each device ( S201 ).

[0139] Next, the management device 300 determines whether the power supply in the blockchain system is less than the power demand (S202). If the power supply is less than the power demand ("Yes" in S202), a power saving request for saving the insufficient power is sent to the power measurement terminal 200 (S203). The power saving request may include the insufficient power in the blockchain system or the target power consumption value after subtracting the insufficient power consumption from the current power consumption.

[0140] Next, the block generation devices A to C notify the power measurement terminal 200 of the power consumption (S204). In response, the power measurement terminal 200 obtains the power consumption required for the generation process in each of the block generation devices A to C.

[0141] The power measurement terminal 200 calculates a power saving target value (S205) based on the power saving request from the management device 300 and the power consumption required for the generation process in each block generation device A to C. The power saving target value is a target value of power consumption, and if the generation process can be performed with power consumption below the target value, it can become a target value that can satisfy the power saving request from the management device 300.

[0142] Next, the power measurement terminal 200 transmits transaction data including a power saving request including a power saving target value to each of the block generation devices A to C ( S206 ).

[0143] Each of the block generation devices A to C reduces the difficulty of mining according to the power saving request (S207).

[0144] Each of the block generation devices A to C performs mining with the reduced difficulty and generates a block (S208). Alternatively, the block generation devices A to C may cause the display provided by the management system 1 to display at least one of the current mining difficulty, the increase or decrease in the mining difficulty, and the mining difficulty when generating the block.

[0145] Each of the block generation devices A to C approves the generated block, and each adds the approved block to the blockchain having the distributed ledger 104 ( S209 ).

[0146] Next, the management device 300 determines whether the power supply in the blockchain system is less than the power demand (S210). If the power supply is greater than the power demand ("No" in S210), a recovery request to cancel the power saving request is sent to the power measurement terminal 200 (S211). The recovery request includes a request to stop the process of reducing power consumption due to the power saving request and execute the original process.

[0147] Next, the power measurement terminal 200 transmits transaction data including a restoration request to each of the block generation devices A to C ( S212 ).

[0148] Each of the block generation devices A to C increases the difficulty of mining according to the recovery request (S213). That is, the difficulty of mining is restored to the difficulty before it was reduced according to the power saving request. In this way, each of the block generation devices A to C performs mining with the increased difficulty, generates blocks, and approves the generated blocks.

[0149] [Effects, etc.]

[0150] The block generation method performed by the block generation device 500 according to the present embodiment adjusts the difficulty of mining based on the power saving request (S207). The generation process is performed based on the adjusted difficulty of mining.

[0151] Since the lower the difficulty of mining, the smaller the processing load required for mining, the smaller the power consumption required for mining. Therefore, by adjusting the difficulty of mining according to the power saving request, the power consumption required for the generation process can be adjusted.

[0152] Furthermore, in the block generation method according to the present embodiment, the transaction data further includes difficulty information showing the relationship between the power saving request and the difficulty of mining. In the adjustment of the difficulty of mining, the difficulty of mining is adjusted based on the power saving request and the difficulty information.

[0153] Thus, since the difficulty of mining according to the power saving request can be appropriately determined based on the difficulty information, the power consumption required for the generation process can be reduced according to the power saving request.

[0154] Furthermore, in the block generation method according to the present embodiment, when adjusting the difficulty of mining, the difficulty is adjusted to be lower as the shortage of power supply to the area where the block generation devices A to C are located increases.

[0155] As a result, the power consumption of the block generating devices A to C can be reduced according to the shortage of power supply to the area where the block generating devices A to C are located.

[0156] Furthermore, in the block generation method involved in the present embodiment, regarding the difficulty information, when the power supply to the area where the block generation devices A to C are located is insufficient, the degree of decrease in the difficulty of mining is shown, and when the power supply is not insufficient, the degree of increase in the difficulty of mining is shown.

[0157] Thus, the power consumption of the block generating devices A to C can be adjusted according to whether the power supply to the area where the block generating devices A to C are located is insufficient.

[0158] [Variation of Embodiment 2]

[0159] In Embodiment 2, although the difficulty of mining is determined by each block generation device A to C, it is not limited to this, and may be determined by the power measurement terminal 200. The difficulty of mining determined by the power measurement terminal 200 is notified to each block generation device A to C, and each block generation device A to C may also perform block generation processing according to the difficulty of mining notified by the power measurement terminal 200.

[0160] (Other Embodiments)

[0161] In the above-described first and second embodiments, the power measurement terminal 200 and the management device 300 perform information transmission and reception, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0162] Figure 8 An example of the configuration of a management system according to another embodiment is shown.

[0163] like Figure 8 As shown, the management system 1A may include block generation devices 110a to 110c and a power measurement terminal 210 installed in the building 11 in addition to the block generation devices 100a to 100c and the power measurement terminal 200 installed in the building 10. In this way, the management system 1A may further include a power measurement terminal 220 connected to the power measurement terminals 200 and 210.

[0164] The block generation devices 110 a to 110 c and the power measurement terminal 210 each have the same functions as the block generation devices 100 a to 100 c and the power measurement terminal 200 .

[0165] The power measuring terminal 220 obtains information on power consumption in the block generation devices 100a to 100c and 110a to 110c from the power measuring terminals 200 and 210. Alternatively, the power measuring terminal 220 may receive a power saving request from the management device 300, send a power saving request for the building 10 to the power measuring terminal 200, and send a power saving request for the building 11 to the power measuring terminal 210.

[0166] (Other Embodiments)

[0167] In the method of the above-mentioned implementation mode, the management system 1 or the management system 1A may also store the acquired, generated, and outputted information into the blockchain.

[0168] The method in the above-mentioned embodiment can also be implemented by a smart contract. By executing a smart contract, the prescribed program can be automatically executed without going through other people or other systems. Accordingly, through a smart contract, a series of processes can be implemented with higher security.

[0169] (Replenish)

[0170] The blockchain in the above-mentioned implementation mode is supplemented with explanation.

[0171] Fig. 9 This is an explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the blockchain.

[0172] The blockchain is constructed by connecting blocks, which are recording units, into a chain. Each block has multiple transaction data and a hash value of the block immediately before it. Specifically, block B2 includes the hash value of block B1 in front of it. In addition, the hash value calculated based on the multiple transaction data included in block B2 and the hash value of block B1 is included in block B3 as the hash value of block B2. In this way, by including the content of the previous block as a hash value and connecting the blocks into a lock shape, it is possible to effectively prevent the recorded transaction data from being tampered with.

[0173] If the previous transaction data is changed, the hash value of the block will be different from the value before the change. In order to disguise the tampered block as the authentic one, all subsequent blocks must be remade, which is very difficult from a practical point of view. By using this property, it is possible to ensure the difficulty of tampering with the blockchain.

[0174] Fig.10It is an explanatory diagram showing the data structure of transaction data.

[0175] Fig.10 The transaction data shown includes a transaction subject P1 and a digital signature P2. The transaction subject P1 is the data subject included in the transaction data. The digital signature P2 is obtained by signing the hash value of the transaction subject P1 with the signature key of the producer of the transaction data. More specifically, it is generated by encrypting the above hash value with the producer's key. As a way to implement digital signatures, for example, ECDSA (Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm), CRYSTALS-Dilithium, Falcon, SPHINCS+ (a quantum-resistant encryption algorithm), etc. can be used.

[0176] Since the transaction data has the digital signature P2, it is virtually impossible to tamper with it. If the transaction data is tampered with, the verification using the digital signature P2 will fail, and it can be determined that it has been tampered with. This can prevent the transaction subject P1 from being tampered with.

[0177] [Other embodiments, etc.]

[0178] As described above, although the present disclosure has been described based on the above-mentioned embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments. The following cases are also included in the present disclosure.

[0179] (1) Each device in the above-mentioned embodiment is specifically a computer system composed of a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, hard disk unit, display unit, keyboard, mouse, etc. A computer program is stored in the RAM or hard disk unit. The microprocessor operates according to the computer program, so that each device realizes its own function. Here, the computer program is a combination of multiple command codes that issue instructions to the computer in order to realize a specified function.

[0180] (2) Some or all of the components of each device in the above-mentioned embodiments may be constituted by a system LSI (Large Scale Integration). System LSI is a multifunctional LSI in which multiple components are integrated and manufactured on a single chip, and specifically is a computer system constituted by a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, etc. The RAM stores a computer program. The microprocessor operates according to the computer program, so that the system LSI realizes its functions.

[0181] Furthermore, each functional unit of the constituent elements constituting each of the above-mentioned devices may be separately manufactured into one chip, or a part or all of them may be manufactured into one chip.

[0182] Furthermore, although it is a system LSI here, it may also be called IC, LSI, super LSI, or ultra super LSI depending on the degree of integration. Furthermore, the method of integrated circuitization is not limited to LSI, and can also be realized by a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor. It is also possible to use a reconfigurable processor in which the connection or setting of the circuit unit inside the LSI can be reconfigured by using an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) that can be programmed after LSI manufacturing or an LSI.

[0183] Furthermore, if integrated circuit technology that replaces LSI emerges as semiconductor technology advances or other technologies are derived, it is of course possible to use these technologies to integrate functional blocks. There is also the possibility of applying biotechnology, etc.

[0184] (3) A part or all of the components constituting each of the above-mentioned devices may be constituted by an IC card or a single module that can be attached to or detached from each device. The IC card or the module is a computer system composed of a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, etc. The IC card or the module may include the above-mentioned ultra-multifunctional LSI. The microprocessor operates according to a computer program, so that the IC card or the module realizes its respective functions. The IC card or the module may also be tamper-resistant.

[0185] (4) The present disclosure may be the methods shown above, a computer program for implementing these methods by a computer, or a digital signal composed of the computer program.

[0186] Furthermore, the present disclosure may also be a computer-readable recording medium recording the computer program or the digital signal, such as a floppy disk, a hard disk, a CD-ROM, an MO, a DVD, a DVD-ROM, a DVD-RAM, a BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc), a semiconductor memory, etc. Furthermore, the digital signal recorded on these recording media may also be used.

[0187] Furthermore, the present disclosure may transmit the computer program or the digital signal via an electronic communication line, a wireless or wired communication line, a network represented by the Internet, data broadcasting, and the like.

[0188] Furthermore, the present disclosure may be a computer system including a microprocessor and a memory, wherein the memory stores the above-mentioned computer program, and the microprocessor operates according to the computer program.

[0189] Furthermore, the program or the digital signal may be recorded on the recording medium and transmitted, or the program or the digital signal may be transmitted via the network or the like, thereby being executed by another independent computer system.

[0190] (5) The above-mentioned embodiments and modifications may be combined respectively.

[0191] Industrial Applicability

[0192] The present disclosure can be utilized in a block generation method, for example, a block generation method that can adjust the power consumption required for a process of adding a block to a blockchain according to a power saving request.

[0193] Explanation of symbols

[0194] 1. 1A Management System

[0195] 10.11 Buildings

[0196] 100, 100a to 100c, 110a to 110c, 500 Block generation device

[0197] 101, 501 Ministry of Communications

[0198] 102, 502 Block Generation Department

[0199] 103 Judgment Department

[0200] 104, 504 Distributed Ledger

[0201] 200, 210, 220 Power Measurement Terminals

[0202] 503 Adjustment Department

Claims

1. A block generation method, which is a block generation method performed by a block generation device for generating a block of a blockchain, In the block generation method, obtaining transaction data including a power saving request for power saving required for a generation process related to generation of the block in the block generation device, The generation process is performed with a power consumption that satisfies the power saving request.

2. The block generation method according to claim 1, Further in the block generation method, determining whether the block generation device has a first permission to add a new block to the blockchain, The generation process is started when it is determined that the block generation device has the first authority.

3. The block generation method according to claim 2, The generation process is started when the generation process can be performed with the power consumption.

4. The block generation method according to claim 3, In the judgment, (i) based on the power saving request, a target value of power consumption required for the generation process and a predicted power consumption required for the generation process are calculated, and (ii) when the predicted power consumption is below the target value, it is judged that the generation process can be performed with the power consumption.

5. The block generation method according to any one of claims 2 to 4, Furthermore, in the determination, when the generation process can be performed with the power consumption, it is determined whether the block generation device has a second authority to add a new block to the blockchain. The generation process is started when it is determined that the block generation device has the first authority and the second authority and can execute the generation process with the power consumption.

6. The block generation method according to claim 5, The block generation device having the second authority is randomly determined from one or more block generation devices having the first authority and capable of executing the generation process with the power consumption.

7. The block generation method according to claim 1, Further in the block generation method, Adjusting the difficulty of mining based on the power saving request, The generation process is performed based on the adjusted difficulty of the mining.

8. The block generation method according to claim 7, The transaction data further includes difficulty information showing a relationship between the power saving request and the difficulty of the mining, In the adjustment, the difficulty of the mining is adjusted based on the power saving request and the difficulty information.

9. The block generation method according to claim 8, In the adjustment, the difficulty level is adjusted to be lower as the shortage of power supply to the area where the block generation device is located increases.

10. The block generation method according to claim 8 or 9, The difficulty information shows the extent to which the difficulty of mining decreases when the power supply to the area where the block generation device is located is insufficient, and shows the extent to which the difficulty of mining increases when the power supply is not insufficient.

11. A block generation device is a block generation device that generates blocks of a blockchain, The block generation device comprises: an acquisition unit that acquires transaction data including a power saving request for power saving required for a generation process related to generation of the block in the block generation device; and The block generation unit executes the generation process with the power consumption satisfying the power saving request.

12. A program for causing a computer to execute the block generation method according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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