Private-Key Locked NFT Image Generator

Private-Key Constructed NFT Image Generator

Overview

This system defines a cryptographic image generation mechanism where the image generator algorithm is structurally incomplete and non-functional unless constructed at runtime using a valid private key. The private key acts as a built-in contract: it is the essential component required to complete the algorithm and produce the high-resolution image. Access control is enforced cryptographically by binding algorithm completion directly to the key.

Core Concept

• The image generator code is published as a partial algorithm, intentionally missing critical components.
• Missing components (constants, functions, or bytecode modules) are encrypted and can only be decrypted and assembled using the private key owned by the authorized user.
• Possession of the private key is the de facto license and contract to unlock full image generation capabilities.
• Without the private key, the generator produces no meaningful output.

System Architecture

1. Partial Algorithm Publication

A public, incomplete generator is distributed.
Critical algorithm components (e.g., coefficients, lookup tables, encrypted function blobs) are separately stored in encrypted form.

2. Key-Based Reconstruction

The user applies their private key to:

• Derive symmetric keys for decrypting encrypted components.
• Generate deterministic parameters from the private key using cryptographic key derivation functions.

These decrypted or derived components complete the generator’s logic at runtime.

3. Image Generation Process

1. The user downloads the partial generator and encrypted components from a decentralized or centralized storage source.
2. Using their private key, the user derives:
   • The symmetric decryption key(s).
   • Runtime parameters and function definitions.
3. The user decrypts the missing components.
4. The generator is dynamically completed by injecting these components.
5. The completed generator produces the full-resolution image.
6. Without the private key, the algorithm is incomplete and outputs noise, errors, or redacted images.

Key Binding Mechanism

The private key directly controls the following:

• Decryption of critical encrypted data such as constants, function bytecode, or noise parameters.
• Deterministic generation of algorithm parameters (e.g., coefficients, color maps) via cryptographic key derivation functions (e.g., HKDF).
• Construction or compilation of missing functions or modules, synthesized at runtime based on key-derived data.

Example snippet:

KeyData load_key_data(PrivateKey privKey)
{
    SymmetricKey sk = derive_symmetric_key(privKey);
    EncryptedBlock enc = load_encrypted_component();
    return decrypt<KeyData>(enc, sk);
}

Pixel generate_pixel(int x, int y, const KeyData &kd)
{
    float val = kd.fn(x, y, kd.seed);
    return map_color(val, kd.color_map);
}

Security and Anti-Tampering

• The generator code includes decoy logic and obfuscation to frustrate reverse engineering.
• Core functions and data structures are encrypted and only recoverable using the correct private key.
• The generator outputs watermarked images embedding user-specific fingerprints to trace unauthorized distribution.
• Because the private key acts as the license, access control enforcement is cryptographically guaranteed without external contracts.

Technology Stack

Component	Technology
Encryption	AES-256 (symmetric), ECC (asymmetric)
Storage	IPFS, Arweave, centralized servers (optional)
Generator	Rust, C++, WebAssembly
Execution	Native apps, browser environments
Key Management	Hardware wallets, software wallets, secure key stores

Use Case: High-Resolution Content Licensing

A creator generates a high-resolution image generator with missing key-dependent components. They distribute the partial algorithm publicly but keep encrypted critical components private. Buyers receive the private key that acts as a cryptographic “license” enabling them to decrypt, reconstruct, and generate the full image. Ownership of the key is synonymous with authorized access.

Conclusion

This system tightly binds algorithm completion and image generation to possession of a private key. The private key functions as a self-contained access contract, removing the need for external smart contracts or license servers. The algorithm is incomplete and unusable without the key, ensuring strong cryptographic enforcement of digital ownership.