BlockGrid: A Blockchain-Mediated Cyber-Physical Instructional Platform
Abstract
Blockchain technology has garnered significant attention for its disruptive potential in several domainsof national security interest. For the United States government to meet the challenge of incorporatingblockchain technology into its IT infrastructure and cyber warfare strategy, personnel must be educatedabout blockchain technology and its applications.This thesis presents both the design and prototype implementation for a blockchain-mediated cyberphysicalsystem called a BlockGrid. The system consists of a cluster of microcomputers that form a simplesmart grid controlled by smart contracts on a private blockchain. The microcomputers act as privateblockchain nodes and are programmed to activate microcomputer-attached circuits in response to smartcontracttransactions. LEDs are used as visible circuit elements that serve as indicators of the blockchainsactivity and allow demonstration of the technology to observers. Innovations in networking configurationand physical layout allow the prototype to be highly portable and pre-configured for use upon assembly.Implementation options allow the use of BlockGrid in a variety of instructional settings, thus increasing itspotential benefit to educators.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1127024
Entities
People
- Gregory M Moore
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School