Blockchain-based credible manufacturing data sharing for a collaborative manufacturing supply chain

Core enterprises are entering into close collaborations with multi-level manufacturing service providers to create and share value. However, credible data sharing in collaborative manufacturing supply chains is rare, which can lead to uncontrollable production distortions and delayed operational adjustments. Driven by blockchain technology, this study proposes a systematic framework for credible manufacturing data sharing for a cross-enterprise collaborative manufacturing supply chain (CMSC). To develop the needed method, a blockchain network system with blockchain nodes, distributed ledger, and Raft-based distributed node ordering service system was first modelled. Then, two automatic data upload algorithms were studied to ensure the reliability of off-chain manufacturing data sources from core enterprises, suppliers, and customers. Then, two types of smart contracts were designed to ensure the standardisation and co-validation of manufacturing data storage and query processes in the blockchain network. A demonstrative case was studied to validate the proposed blockchain-based credible manufacturing data sharing method. The results show that our work is effective for credible data sharing in CMSC, which makes it easier for core enterprises to better operate the CMSC and further stimulate enterprises to create a credible social community.