Distributed Ledger Record Segmentation for Data Erasure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Blockchain technology lacks the ability to store and manage the reasons behind transactions, leading to inefficiencies in data management and compliance with regulations, as existing systems cannot erase data without compromising data integrity.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for efficiently storing a distributed ledger by generating records with payloads and headers, where the payload stores the state of a data object and the header references state information, allowing for the storage of historic states and auxiliary information in lifelines and jets, enabling data to be erased without corrupting the ledger's integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data is stored in traditional blockchain structures, then data integrity is maintained, but data erasure becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the blockchain data structure into distinct components: immutable header information containing cryptographic hashes and timestamps, and mutable payload information containing the actual data. This segmentation allows the header to maintain integrity while the payload can be modified or erased, resolving the contradiction between data integrity and erasure capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the data erasure functionality from the immutable blockchain structure by separating erasable payload data from non-erasable header data. The header contains cryptographic references that maintain chain integrity, while the payload can be selectively erased, allowing data erasure without compromising overall blockchain integrity.
2Loss of information
If reasons for transactions are stored in the blockchain, then causality tracking is enabled, but storage complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges causality tracking into the existing blockchain record structure by incorporating reason information as part of the transaction payload. Instead of creating separate storage mechanisms, the reason for transactions is combined with the transaction data itself, enabling causality tracking without adding significant structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal record structure that serves multiple functions: storing transaction data, maintaining cryptographic integrity, and tracking causality reasons. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate storage systems for different types of information, reducing overall storage complexity while enabling comprehensive causality tracking.
3Adaptability or versatility
If custom solutions are used to store reasons for transactions, then application-specific needs are met, but development effort and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal reason storage mechanism within the blockchain record structure that can accommodate various application-specific needs. The standardized format allows different applications to store their custom reason information using the same underlying infrastructure, eliminating the need for custom development for each application and significantly improving development efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for efficiently storing a distributed ledger of records. In an exemplary aspect, a method may include generating a record comprising a payload and a header, wherein the payload stores a state of a data object associated with a distributed ledger and the header stores a reference to state information in the payload. The method may further comprise including the record in a trunk filament comprising a first plurality of records indicative of historic states of the data object, wherein the trunk filament is part of a first lifeline. The method may include identifying a jet of the distributed ledger, wherein the jet is a logical structure storing a second lifeline with a second plurality of records. In response to determining that the first plurality of records is related to the second plurality of records, the method may include storing the first lifeline in the jet.