Secure QR Document Routing via Distributed Ledger Keys

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional file sharing arrangements face security issues and are limited by file size when transferring confidential data, making secure distribution of large files inefficient and prone to unauthorized access.

Innovation Solution

A system utilizing a secure QR code and blockchain technology for encrypting and distributing large files, where a file reference key is stored in a distributed ledger, and access is granted through a validated QR code scan.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional file sharing arrangements are used to transfer confidential data, then ease of operation is improved, but security and vulnerability to data tampering worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of file sharingVSAvoidsecurity against data tampering
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a distributed ledger system as an intermediary between the file storage system and the recipient. The ledger stores file reference keys that verify file integrity and authenticity, acting as a trusted mediator that prevents data tampering while maintaining ease of file sharing through automated verification processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates a cryptographic copy of the file reference key and stores it in the distributed ledger. This copy serves as an immutable verification record that proves the file's authenticity without requiring the original file to be physically present, enabling secure verification while maintaining operational simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Productivity

If conventional file sharing is used for large files, then productivity is improved through direct transfer, but reliability worsens due to file size limitations and security vulnerabilities

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefile transfer efficiencyVSAvoidsecurity and file size handling
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the file reference key from the actual file content and stores it separately in the distributed ledger. This separation allows the file to be stored in a distributed hash table without size limitations while the reference key provides verification, enabling reliable handling of large files without compromising security or transfer efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The distributed ledger acts as an intermediary that verifies file integrity through stored reference keys, enabling secure transfer of large files without requiring the entire file to be transmitted or stored in a single location, thus maintaining productivity while improving reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If encrypted files are stored in a distributed hash table with reference keys in a distributed ledger, then reliability is improved through enhanced security, but device complexity worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity and data integrityVSAvoidsystem architecture complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The distributed ledger serves multiple functions simultaneously: it stores file reference keys for verification, maintains an immutable audit trail, and provides cryptographic proof of file integrity. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate security systems, improving reliability while managing complexity through consolidation.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements automated verification processes where the distributed ledger automatically validates file integrity through stored reference keys without requiring manual security checks. This self-service approach enhances security and data integrity while reducing operational complexity through automation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Reliability

If a secure QR code system is implemented for file access, then reliability is improved through controlled access, but ease of operation worsens due to additional validation steps

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess control securityVSAvoidfile access convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical access control systems (physical keys, cards, or passwords) with an optical QR code system that can be scanned and validated automatically. This substitution maintains security through cryptographic verification while improving ease of operation by eliminating the need for users to manually enter complex credentials.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS12450397B2Distributed computing system for secure document routing
Publication Date: 2025.10.21 BANK OF AMERICA CORP
  • US12450397B2 patent drawing
  • US12450397B2 patent drawing
  • US12450397B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Arrangements for providing secure document distribution are provided. In some aspects, a request to distribute a file may be received. The request may include identification of the file being distributed, as well as identification of a recipient. The identified file may be encrypted and stored in a distributed hash table. In some examples, a file reference key associated with the encrypted file may be generated and stored in a distributed ledger. A secure QR code based on the file reference key may be generated and transmitted to a recipient computing device. In some arrangements, an indication of a scan of the secure QR code may be received. Responsive to receiving the indication of the scan, the file reference key may be retrieved and a decrypted file of the encrypted file may be generated and provided to the recipient for viewing and/or downloading.