Blockchain Timestamp Verification via Time Server Check
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing timestamping methods, such as digital timestamping and physical document verification, are vulnerable to corruption and manipulation, and lack control over the timestamp issuance, particularly in decentralized systems like blockchain, where timestamps can be manipulated by the creator and lack assurance of verification time.
Innovation Solution
A method for creating an immutable timestamp by using a distributed ledger system where a hash of a dataset and a verification time are documented in data blocks, with checks performed using a time server to ensure the verification time is accurate and tamper-proof, allowing multiple entities to acknowledge the dataset's existence before the verification time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a trusted authority creates digital timestamps using hash and signature, then timestamping can be performed, but the trusted authority can be corrupted and expose private keys leading to corruption of all issued timestamps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a blockchain network as an intermediary between the data submitter and the timestamp verification system. Instead of relying on a single trusted authority, the timestamp is distributed across multiple nodes in the blockchain network, where each node independently validates and records the timestamp transaction. This eliminates the single point of failure represented by the trusted authority's private key.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the timestamping function across multiple blockchain nodes rather than concentrating it in a single trusted authority. Each node maintains a copy of the blockchain and independently validates timestamp transactions. The timestamp is embedded in a block that is replicated across the distributed network, so corruption of one node does not affect the overall system integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If blockchain timestamps are used, then decentralization is achieved, but timestamps can be manipulated by the block creator and verification time control is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic verification mechanism where the system adaptively determines whether a timestamp transaction is valid based on the relationship between the current blockchain time and the requested verification time. The block creator dynamically adjusts the verification time parameter to ensure it falls within an acceptable range (future timestamp), preventing manipulation while maintaining decentralization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the blockchain network continuously monitors and validates timestamp transactions. The verification process provides feedback by checking whether the verification time is logically consistent with the current blockchain state. Invalid timestamps are rejected by the network, creating a self-correcting system that maintains accuracy without centralized control.
3Reliability
If printed document verification is used, then timestamp proof can be obtained, but the document must leave the company and can only be used once for proofing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses cryptographic hashing to create a digital copy of the document's essential information. Instead of moving the original document, the system generates a hash value that serves as a unique fingerprint of the document content. This hash is then submitted to the blockchain for timestamping, allowing the original document to remain securely stored in the company while still obtaining verifiable timestamp proof.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the timestamping system reusable and multi-functional. The same blockchain infrastructure can timestamp multiple different documents and data types repeatedly. The timestamp transaction can be verified unlimited times by any party with access to the blockchain, eliminating the single-use limitation of physical document verification and enabling continuous validation of document existence at specific times.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is for determining a further data block. An embodiment of the method includes receiving a further timestamp transaction via a first interface, including a hash of a dataset and a further verification time; receiving a distributed ledger via the first interface, including data blocks; determining via a first computation unit, a first time by querying a time server; performing via the first computation unit, a first check based on the first time and the further verification time; and determining via the first computation unit, upon first check being positive, the further data block based on the distributed ledger, the further data block including the further timestamp transaction. A block creation system is also included in another embodiment, for determining a further data block, the system including a first interface and first computation unit.