Blockchain Key Succession for Resilient Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electronic security systems lack efficient methods for secure storage and distribution of encryption keys, particularly in ensuring key succession and network resilience against disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for storing and distributing encryption keys in sequence, utilizing a blockchain-based distributed database to manage key succession, storage, and distribution, where each key has a designated successor and expiry date, ensuring secure key replacement and network integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If encryption keys are stored in a centralized system, then key distribution is simplified, but the system becomes vulnerable to network disruptions and single points of failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the key management system into a distributed network of nodes, where each node stores portions of key information rather than centralizing all keys in one location. This segmentation allows the system to maintain key distribution capabilities while eliminating single points of failure, as each node can independently validate and distribute key segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where encryption keys contain embedded successors and validation information within their data structure. Each key is nested with its successor key and associated metadata, allowing automatic key rotation and validation without requiring centralized coordination, thereby improving both ease of operation and reliability.
2Reliability
If key succession is manually managed, then security control is maintained, but key replacement efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service key management where the system automatically performs key succession operations without manual intervention. Each encryption key contains an embedded successor key that automatically takes over when the current key expires or is compromised. The system autonomously validates key transitions through cryptographic proofs, maintaining security control while dramatically improving key replacement efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent prepares successor keys in advance and embeds them within the current key's data structure before the current key expires. This preliminary action ensures that key succession is already configured and validated before needed, eliminating delays associated with manual key replacement while maintaining cryptographic security through pre-established validation mechanisms.
3Stability of the object's composition
If all nodes synchronize continuously, then network consistency is maintained, but energy consumption increases during network outages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic synchronization where nodes exchange key information at scheduled intervals rather than continuously. During network outages, nodes operate independently using their locally stored key segments and only synchronize when connectivity is restored. This periodic approach maintains network consistency over time while significantly reducing energy consumption during disruptions compared to continuous synchronization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables each node to maintain local key segments and operate independently with locally available information during network outages. Nodes have different local states and can function autonomously using their local key portions, only coordinating when needed. This local quality approach maintains overall network consistency while allowing energy-efficient independent operation during disruptions.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer system and a method are provided for storage and distribution of encryption keys in sequence. Encryption keys, such as public keys, are provided key pointers as properties, the key pointer indicating another key, to thereby form a sequence. A current key is designated, and the sequence is advanced to a successor key indicated by the key pointer of the current key upon a predetermined succession event. The current key is transmitted upon receipt of a key request. In various embodiments, succession events can include occurrence of an expiration date, or the addition of a new key to the sequence.