Using Blockchain to Protect 3D Printing from Unauthorized Model Tampering

As three-dimensional (3D) printing technology is widely used, security issues have arisen, especially in the terminal parts of automobiles, aircraft, and 3D-printed military equipment. If the original design models or the STL (stereolithography) files are hacked or tampered, severe consequences can be anticipated. In this paper, we propose a demonstration to use a high-throughput blockchain to store the fingerprints of the 3D model and verify the fingerprints before printing to prevent illegal tampering. Relying on the tamper-resistant features of blockchain, the security of the model and the credibility of the terminal components can be ensured. The combination of blockchain and 3D printing will help people to build a trusted manufacturing environment and realize a more flexible manufacturing for future industry.

Automated summary

This paper proposes a demonstration of using a high-throughput blockchain to store the fingerprints of 3D models and verify them before printing, in order to prevent illegal tampering. The combination of blockchain and 3D printing ensures the security of the models and the credibility of the terminal components, and enables a more flexible manufacturing for future industry.