1. Abstract
Blockchain-Based Model Ownership Verification is a system designed to verify ownership and establish proof of authenticity for machine learning models using blockchain technology. It generates a unique cryptographic hash for each registered model and stores ownership details and timestamps on the blockchain. Model creators can register their models, while users can verify ownership by comparing model hashes with blockchain records. The system improves transparency, helps detect unauthorized model modifications, and supports intellectual property protection for AI models.
2. Objectives
- To establish verifiable ownership records for AI models.
- To register model hashes on the blockchain.
- To verify model authenticity and integrity.
- To detect unauthorized model modifications.
- To maintain transparent ownership records.
- To support intellectual property protection for AI developers.
3. Existing System
Traditional model ownership verification relies on centralized databases, timestamps, documentation, and manual processes. These methods may make it difficult to independently verify ownership history or detect unauthorized changes to model files.
Disadvantages:
- Ownership claims can be difficult to verify independently.
- Centralized records may be modified or lost.
- Unauthorized model copying can be difficult to track.
- Model integrity checks may be inconsistent.
- Ownership disputes may require manual investigation.
4. Proposed System
The proposed system uses blockchain and smart contracts to register AI model ownership information. Model creators upload a model file or provide its digital fingerprint, and the system calculates a cryptographic hash such as SHA-256. The hash, creator address, and registration timestamp are recorded on the blockchain. Users can later verify a model by recalculating its hash and comparing it with the registered record.
Key Features:
- AI model registration.
- Cryptographic hash generation.
- Blockchain-based ownership records.
- Smart contract integration.
- Model integrity verification.
- Ownership history and verification dashboard.
- Admin and user interfaces.
5. Implementation Procedure
- Requirement Analysis: Define model registration and ownership verification requirements.
- Frontend Development: Build the interface using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, or React.js.
- Backend Development: Develop APIs using Python Flask or Node.js.
- Model Upload: Allow users to select an AI model file for registration.
- Hash Generation: Generate a SHA-256 hash for the selected model file.
- Blockchain Setup: Configure Ethereum or a local Hardhat network.
- Smart Contract Development: Create Solidity contracts to register model hashes and ownership details.
- Ownership Registration: Store the model hash, creator address, and timestamp on the blockchain.
- Verification: Recalculate the submitted model's hash and compare it with the registered hash.
- Testing and Deployment: Test valid models, modified files, duplicate registrations, and ownership verification.
6. Software Requirements
- Operating System: Windows 10/11 or Linux
- Programming Languages: Python, JavaScript, Solidity
- Frontend: HTML, CSS, React.js
- Backend: Python Flask or Node.js
- Blockchain: Ethereum or Hardhat local network
- Smart Contract IDE: Remix IDE
- Cryptographic Hashing: SHA-256
- Wallet: MetaMask
- Database: MongoDB or MySQL
- Code Editor: Visual Studio Code
- Browser: Google Chrome
7. Hardware Requirements
- Processor: Intel Core i3 or equivalent and above
- RAM: Minimum 4 GB; 8 GB recommended
- Storage: Minimum 10 GB available space
- Display: Standard monitor
- Input Devices: Keyboard and mouse
- Network: Internet connection for blockchain deployment
8. Advantages of the Project
- Provides tamper-evident ownership records.
- Verifies AI model file integrity.
- Helps identify unauthorized model modifications.
- Improves transparency in model registration.
- Reduces dependence on centralized ownership records.
- Supports AI intellectual property management.
- Enables quick verification using cryptographic hashes.