Blockchain-Based Coffee Machine Authentication Using NFT and NFC
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing anti-counterfeiting methods for coffee machines and grinders face challenges such as the inability to verify the authenticity of QR codes and vulnerabilities in blockchain systems, which can be exploited by counterfeiters, and require consumers to use additional apps for verification.
Innovation Solution
A method using a Non-Fungible Token (NFT) and Near-Field Communication (NFC) tag, combined with a blockchain, ensures that updates and operations are performed only on original products by associating public and private keys with the product, enabling secure authentication and data transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If blockchain technology is used to store update data, then data security and authenticity are improved, but counterfeit products can still receive updates and accessories can be connected to original products
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary authentication of the coffee machine's identity before allowing any blockchain interactions. The NFT is minted and stored in the machine's control card during manufacturing, establishing a pre-existing digital identity that must be verified before any updates or blockchain operations are permitted. This preliminary action prevents counterfeit machines from accessing update data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mobile device application as an intermediary between the coffee machine and the blockchain system. This intermediary performs multiple verification steps: confirming the machine's NFT authenticity, validating the user's ownership, and authorizing operations. This intermediary layer blocks counterfeit machines even if they somehow access the blockchain, as they cannot pass the authentication checks performed by the mobile application.
2Loss of information
If multiple websites are linked for product verification, then information completeness is improved, but QR code authenticity cannot be verified and users must install additional applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple verification functions into a single mobile application that interfaces with the blockchain system. Instead of requiring users to visit multiple websites or install separate applications for QR code scanning, information verification, and update management, all these functions are consolidated into one app that communicates directly with the coffee machine's NFC tag and the blockchain network.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the mechanical/physical verification process (QR code scanning, website navigation, manual information checking) with a digital blockchain-based verification system. The NFT smart contract automatically verifies product authenticity and provides all necessary information, eliminating the need for complex multi-website verification systems and additional user applications.
3Measurement precision
If NFT authentication is implemented, then product authenticity verification is improved, but the system requires NFC communication and mobile application installation
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables the coffee machine to perform self-authentication through its built-in NFC tag and control card that contain the NFT data. When a user brings a mobile device with the application close to the machine, the authentication process occurs automatically without requiring user intervention or complex operations. The machine essentially verifies its own authenticity through the NFC communication, reducing the operational burden on users.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The method securely authenticates coffee machines and grinders, preventing counterfeiting by ensuring only original products can be updated and verified, while protecting against hacking attempts.
Implementation Method 1
a) providing an application residing in a mobile device (2) connected to the internet and a web server (3) associated with the application; wherein the mobile device (2) is provided with a radio interface, in particular of the NFC type
Data Source
AI summary
Method for authenticating and anti-counterfeiting coffee machines or coffee grinders, comprising the steps of: acquiring by means of a web server identification data associated with a coffee machine or a coffee grinder; generating encrypted data by executing a hash function of the identification data; generating a digital certificate associated with a public key and a private key; storing the encrypted data in a blockchain by means of unique association with the public key of the digital certificate using the private key of the digital certificate; storing the public key and the private key in the database installed in the coffee machine or in the coffee grinder; sending the control unit of the coffee machine or the coffee grinder, by means of an application residing in a mobile device, an authentication request containing a message with the public key; in response, sending by means of the control unit the digitally signed message with the private key stored in the database to the application; sending the signed message to the web server by means of the application; sending to the web server an authentication request notification by means of the communication between the control unit and the web server when the communication unit receives the authentication request; sending to the blockchain by means of the web server the signed message received by the application; identifying the absence of counterfeiting of the coffee machine or of the coffee grinder only if the blockchain identifies that the signed message associated with the coffee machine or with the coffee grinder is authentic when both the public key and the private key of the digital certificate match.