Blockchain is a distributed database technology that enables immutable, verifiable data recording, properties that are useful for failure analysis processes requiring high data integrity and traceability. In conveyor belt failure analysis, there is a growing need for reliable management of experimentally obtained data, especially for long-term monitoring of operating and failure states. The presented article focuses on customizing the blockchain architecture to support recording and validating experimental data used in the failure analysis of rubber-textile conveyor belts in pipe conveyors. The proposed methodology integrates a private blockchain system as a layer for storing and validating raw measured data obtained during experiments. The system meets technical accuracy requirements and is defined as a private blockchain with a permissioned system, which uses the Proof of Authority consensus algorithm and is characterized by centrally managed administration. The prototype of the “LogBlock” application demonstrates the storage and validation of data in the form of plain text and compressed (.zip) files, providing robust protection against unauthorized data modifications, auditability, and resistance to unauthorized interference, while being adapted to the specific requirements of the analyzed technical system. Experimental results indicate the feasibility of the proposed blockchain system in storing, validating, and managing raw measurement data, processed data, metadata, and related source files throughout the failure analysis process. The achieved results confirm the system’s ability to identify unauthorized data modifications and ensure their traceability after entering the system. The implemented solution confirms the suitability of using blockchain as a support tool for technically oriented failure analysis applications of conveyor systems.
Fedorko et al. (Sun,) studied this question.