Data Set Authentication Using Blockchain Fingerprints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods fail to authenticate and trace the origin of data sets obtained by physical measuring instruments, particularly imaging devices, which are susceptible to manipulation and forgery, especially in scientific and medical fields, and lack transparency in data processing steps.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that generate a digital proof of authenticity for data sets using a non-fungible token (NFT) stored in a distributed ledger, such as a blockchain, linking the data set to the user, instrument, and specimen, ensuring the data's integrity and traceability through cryptographic verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If data sets are published in electronic form on pre-print servers or online social networks, then data availability and scientific discussion are improved, but data security and authenticity are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by generating a digital fingerprint of the original data set immediately upon acquisition from the measuring instrument, before any processing or publication occurs. This fingerprint is stored in a blockchain ledger in advance, creating a timestamped reference that prevents later tampering while enabling rapid publication of the actual data
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a blockchain-based digital fingerprint as an intermediary between the original data and its published versions. This intermediary serves as a trusted reference that mediates verification, allowing rapid publication while maintaining authenticity through cryptographic comparison of the published data against the stored fingerprint
2Ease of operation
If image data is processed and edited, then data usability is improved, but data integrity and traceability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by creating an unbroken chain of cryptographic hashes that continuously tracks the data from acquisition through each processing step. Each processed version generates a new fingerprint that links to the previous state, maintaining continuous traceability while allowing unlimited processing operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the data processing workflow into discrete, traceable steps where each processing operation is individually recorded in the blockchain. This segments the continuous processing flow into verifiable units, maintaining transparency while preserving processing flexibility
3Reliability
If digital signatures are used for authentication, then data security is improved, but device complexity and implementation difficulty are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential authentication function from complex digital signature systems by using only cryptographic hashing to generate compact digital fingerprints. This removes the need for private key management, certificate authorities, and complex verification infrastructure while maintaining strong authentication through immutable blockchain storage
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for authenticating a data set, wherein an original data set is acquired from a specimen (4) using a physical measuring instrument (2), and wherein a digital proof of authenticity indicating the authenticity of the original data set is generated by a first processor (3) connected to or comprised in the physical measuring instrument (2). The invention further relates to a device (1) for authenticating a data set comprising a physical measuring instrument (2) and to a computer program comprising instructions configured to cause the device (1) to execute the method.