Proxy-Node Blockchain Origination for Identity Obfuscation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing blockchain systems expose the originator's network identity, such as IP addresses, during transaction propagation, risking de-anonymization and requiring extensive communication to manage mining fees and resource allocation among multiple proxy nodes.

Innovation Solution

A method involving multiple proxy nodes, where an originator node generates a partially signed transaction with a surplus input, and each proxy node adjusts the mining fee and generates additional transactions to obscure the originator's identity and optimize resource allocation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If a proxy node is used to introduce a transaction into the blockchain network, then the originator's network identity is obscured, but the proxy node must communicate extensively with the originator to manage mining fees and resource allocation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoriginator's network identityVSAvoidcommunication overhead
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The proxy node autonomously selects the mining fee amount and determines resource allocation without extensive communication with the originator. The proxy node independently manages the transaction introduction process, choosing optimal fees based on network conditions and allocating resources efficiently, thereby reducing communication overhead while maintaining anonymity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts the mining fee parameter based on network conditions and proxy node capabilities. By changing the fee parameter adaptively, the proxy node can optimize transaction inclusion probability while minimizing communication requirements with the originator, resolving the contradiction between anonymity and communication complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of information

If multiple proxy nodes are used to obscure the originator's identity, then network anonymity is enhanced, but the system complexity and coordination requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoriginator's network identityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The transaction introduction function is segmented and distributed across multiple proxy nodes. Each proxy node independently handles transaction introduction, and the system uses a set of addresses associated with different proxy nodes. This segmentation allows the system to scale anonymity capabilities while reducing coordination complexity through independent operation of individual proxy nodes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple proxy nodes perform the same universal function of introducing transactions and obscuring originator identity. Each proxy node is multi-functional, capable of handling various transaction types and network conditions independently. This universality simplifies system coordination compared to specialized roles, as all proxy nodes operate with the same functionality and protocols.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If the proxy node selects the mining fee autonomously, then messaging overhead is reduced, but the proxy node requires sufficient computing resources to optimize fee selection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemessaging overheadVSAvoidcomputing resources
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The proxy node autonomously selects mining fees based on its own computing resource assessment and network conditions. This self-service approach eliminates the need for continuous messaging with the originator to negotiate fee amounts. The proxy node independently evaluates its computing capabilities and determines optimal fees, reducing messaging overhead while using computing resources efficiently for local optimization decisions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP4099617B1Security-enhanced origination of blockchain transactions
Publication Date: 2025.09.10 NCHAIN LICENSING AG
  • EP4099617B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4099617B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4099617B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A blockchain-implemented transaction from an originator node is to be broadcast. The originator node is communicatively coupled to proxy nodes. The method, implemented by a proxy node, includes: receiving a transaction including an input taking x+r units of computing resources, an output providing x units to the output address and another output providing d+r units to a 1-of-n multi-signature address unlockable by any one of a set of private keys associated the proxy nodes. The proxy node selects a quantity of computing resources, t units, to be allocated to the proxy node for broadcasting the transaction and having it included in the blockchain and generates a further transaction taking d+r units sourced from the multi-signature address and an output providing t units to the proxy node. The proxy node broadcasts both transactions timed to permit their inclusion in the same block of the blockchain.