Blockchain Data Storage System with Distributed File Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data storage and retrieval systems lack secure and efficient methods for ensuring immutable access to data objects, particularly in scenarios requiring selective and authorized access.
Innovation Solution
A computer method and system utilizing a blockchain data structure to store and retrieve data objects, where data objects are stored in a distributed file system and accessed through a storage address recorded on the blockchain, ensuring immutable and authorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data is stored in a distributed file system with blockchain reference, then data integrity and secure access are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments data storage into two distinct components: the actual data is stored in a distributed file system (DFS), while only metadata (storage address and hash) is recorded on the blockchain. This segmentation allows each component to specialize - the DFS handles data storage and retrieval operations, while the blockchain provides immutable reference and integrity verification, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reference mechanism as an intermediary between the user and the distributed file system. Instead of directly accessing the complex DFS, users interact with simplified blockchain-based references (storage addresses and hashes). This intermediary layer abstracts the complexity of the distributed file system while maintaining reliable data access through the immutable blockchain reference.
2Reliability
If selective access control is implemented for data objects, then authorized access is improved, but access speed and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-storing data in the distributed file system and pre-recording access control metadata on the blockchain before actual retrieval operations. When authorized users need to access data, they simply retrieve the pre-computed storage address and hash from the blockchain, eliminating the need for complex real-time access control computations and significantly improving access speed while maintaining security.
3Reliability
If immutable access is ensured through blockchain, then data security is improved, but storage capacity and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential security function from the data storage itself and places it on the blockchain as a separate reference mechanism. Only the critical metadata (storage address and hash) that ensures immutability and security is stored on the blockchain, while the actual data is stored efficiently in the distributed file system. This extraction allows the system to achieve strong security guarantees without the storage inefficiencies of storing complete data objects on the blockchain.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer method and system for automated storage and retrieval of data utilizes blockchain technology to enhance security and efficiency of data storage and access. When a data object is stored in a data storage system, a corresponding storage address is written onto a blockchain. When the data object is to be retrieved, the storage address is read from the blockchain and the data object is retrieved from the storage location.