Blockchain Block Deletion Protocol With Audit Chain Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blockchain technologies do not allow for the secure removal of blocks without compromising the integrity of the chain, which is crucial for data integrity and security, especially in closed infrastructures like corporate networks.
Innovation Solution
A method is proposed that involves creating a deletion request for blocks in a blockchain, which is approved by a decision metric and executed across network nodes, using a separate blockchain to document the deletion process, ensuring the integrity of the original blockchain by adjusting subsequent blocks and storing deleted data in an archive.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If blocks are removed from the blockchain to correct erroneous data or meet technical requirements, then data flexibility and compliance are improved, but the integrity and immutability of the blockchain are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the blockchain into two separate chains: the original immutable blockchain and a new deletion blockchain. The deletion blockchain contains deletion requests and their approvals, while the original blockchain remains intact. This segmentation allows data flexibility through deletions in the new chain without compromising the integrity of the original chain.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a deletion blockchain as an intermediary layer between the original blockchain and the deletion operation. This intermediary chain handles all deletion requests, approvals, and executions, acting as a mediator that enables data flexibility while preserving the immutability and integrity of the original blockchain through cryptographic verification.
2Loss of information
If a separate deletion blockchain is created to document deletion processes, then transparency and traceability are improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deletion blockchain serves multiple functions simultaneously: it documents deletion requests, records approval decisions, tracks execution status, and provides audit trails. This multi-functionality consolidates various traceability requirements into a single structure, improving transparency without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The deletion blockchain is self-organizing and self-documented. Each block in the deletion chain automatically contains references to the original blockchain blocks, approval signatures from network nodes, and execution status. The structure itself provides the audit trail and traceability information without requiring external monitoring systems.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If blocks are deleted from the conventional blockchain, then data security and compliance are improved, but the cryptographic chaining and hash references are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the deletion operation from the original blockchain structure. Instead of removing blocks from the conventional chain (which would disrupt cryptographic chaining), the deletion requests and their effects are extracted and recorded in a separate deletion blockchain. This allows data security improvements through deletions while preserving the stable cryptographic composition of the original chain.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of block deletion from a direct modification of the original blockchain to a state change recorded in the deletion blockchain. The original blocks remain unchanged with their original hash references, while the deletion blockchain records the logical deletion state. This parameter change maintains cryptographic chaining stability while achieving the security benefits of data removal.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for securely removing blocks from an existing blockchain in a closed infrastructure, such as a corporate network. The proposed method offers the advantage that entries can be removed from the linked list without compromising the overall integrity of the chain. Blockchains generally do not allow blocks to be removed from the data structure, as this is prevented by redundant storage. The present invention overcomes this limitation and also provides a mechanism that allows the data records to be subsequently restored if necessary. The invention further relates to a correspondingly configured system arrangement. Additionally, a computer program product with control commands is proposed that implements the proposed method and/or operates the proposed device and arrangement.