Block Chain Basic: What Manufactures Need To Know

There has been a lot of interest in Block chain for supply chain manufacturing in recent months and even at Consensus. Since Sync Fab has been focused on this space since as early as 2013 we decided to dedicate a series to the subject of Industry 4.0, Block chain for Supply Chain and manufacturers to describe what is being worked on.  

Big data, the internet of Things (IoT) or Industrial IoT(IIoT), smart factories, artificial intelligence (AI). And now, blockchain. For small and medium-sized manufacturing companies, precision parts suppliers, CNC shops and entrepreneurs, processing and evaluating new technologies can be an overwhelming situation that results in a slowing down, not speeding up, of an operation. 

Of all the technologies available, blockchain offers the easiest path to adoption and lowest cost to improve any business. 

The blockchain is a distributed ledger technology (DLT) that records and verifies transactions in a permanent, digital record that makes it both secure and transparent. While it is the platform created to buy, sell, and store cryptocurrency, like Bitcoin it can be applied to track any transaction or asset. 

Let’s Break it Down 

Many manufacturers, procurement, CNC machine shops, precision parts suppliers, and new product entrepreneurs got into business because of a love and understanding of how things work. Whether you’re an engineer, business person or innovator, you’re probably interested in getting a better grasp on the blockchain. 

Let’s have a look at what blockchain is and what it means for manufacturers. 

 What is Distributed Ledger Technology? 

Distributed ledgers are digital logs that use independent computers called nodes to record and share transaction data and then regularly synchronize the data. Transaction data is grouped into blocks, and as each block is completed, it is added to the chain where it becomes a timestamped record that can’t be altered or removed. 

How does Blockchain Record and Verify Transactions? 

Block chain uses relatively simple, open-source algorithms written to record a transaction. This digital file, or ledger entry, isn’t stored in a single computer or at a central data center. Instead, it’s distributed and duplicated on a network of connected, private computers or nodes across the world. It is this network of connected computers that maintains and secures the ledger. 

To verify transactions, a program is used, called a wallet, that allows you to store, view, and track your deals. Wallets are protected by a unique pair of a private key and a public key using cryptography. Both private and public keys are required to access a wallet. Keys generate a digital signature unique to each transaction request that nodes use to check the source and authenticity. Block chain only holds recorded transactions. Only wallet owners can analyze and verify all transactions that ever take place connected to the wallet. 

Because blockchain is duplicated across a network and records only the facts of any agreement between two entities, transactions are “peer-to-peer” and don’t require a central entity or middleman to coordinate. 

How is Block chain Secure? 

Transactions logged are grouped into blocks, and each block is protected by an irreversible cryptographic hash function that nodes work to solve using complex mathematics and superfast computing. The node that solves the problem has the right to add the block to the chain that already exists in the blockchain network. This process is called mining and further stabilizes the network. 

Once added to the blockchain, transaction data cannot be altered or removed. It is an entry into the digital ledger that is protected by both the blockchain process and the robustness of an entire, decentralized, and distributed network of computers. Transaction data is logged in minutes, is transparent, requires no third-party, and is of little cost. 

While blockchain technology may feel complicated at its core, it is actually a relatively simple use of available digital technology, software algorithms, and a network of independent gatekeepers. This perfect storm of collaborators and mechanisms creates an environment of great possibility for industries around the world.
Source: https://irishtechnews.ie/blockchain-basics-what-manufacturers-need-to-know/