3D Model Distribution via Blockchain Encryption
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Solution Overview
Problem
3D model creators face challenges in securely sharing their designs due to the risk of unauthorized use and file overuse, as consumers can print unlimited objects without compensating the creators, and there is a lack of effective digital rights management in decentralized networks.
Innovation Solution
The use of distributed ledgers, such as blockchain databases, to securely distribute 3D model files by encrypting them with secret keys, restricting usage through temporal or maximum use restrictions, and enabling transparent transactions among content providers and consumers, ensuring only authorized users can access and print the models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If 3D model files are shared freely on a decentralized network, then ease of distribution is improved, but security and control over unauthorized use deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by encrypting 3D model files with secret keys before distribution and recording usage restrictions in advance on the blockchain. The files are prepared with built-in security measures (encryption, key management, usage limits) before being shared on the decentralized network, ensuring security is embedded rather than added later
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces blockchain technology as an intermediary mediator between content providers and consumers. The blockchain records file metadata, usage restrictions, and transaction information, acting as a trusted third party that enables secure distribution without requiring direct trust between parties while maintaining control over file usage
2Reliability
If usage restrictions are implemented on 3D model files, then control over file use is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling 3D model files to automatically enforce usage restrictions without requiring complex external verification systems. The encrypted files contain embedded usage rules (number of prints, time limits) that are automatically validated by the decryption process and blockchain smart contracts, reducing the need for complex monitoring infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies feedback by recording file usage information on the blockchain and using this data to enforce future usage restrictions. Each time a file is used, the usage is recorded and fed back into the system, allowing the blockchain to track and enforce limits on the number of prints, time periods, or other restrictions automatically
Data Source
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AI summary
This document generally describes systems, methods, devices, and other techniques for using distributed ledgers, such as a blockchain database, to facilitate secure distribution and use of 3D model files to 3D printers over a computing network. A 3D printer controller may access an electronic ledger that identifies a plurality of 3D model files that have been made available for distribution. A particular 3D model file and a secret key may be obtained by the printer, where the 3D model file is encrypted based on the secret key. The secret key can be decrypted using a private key associated with the computing device that corresponds to the public key. After decrypting the secret key, the particular 3D model file can be decrypted using the secret key, and after decrypting the particular 3D model file, the particular 3D model file can be executed on the printer to print a physical 3D object.