This paper presents a new consensus algorithm, Proof of Usage (PoU), for the blockchain technology. This consensus is introduced for permissioned (or private) blockchains and is designed for a user-centric personal data market. This market is subject to specific regulations with which conventional blockchains fail to comply. Proof of Usage aims to promote a new paradigm dedicated to usage incentivization, valuation, and control of user data in various sectors, such as banking and insurance. Other consensuses such as Proof of Stake or historical Proof of Work do not encourage coin spending and usage (in fact, Proof of Stake promotes the opposite). However, the value of the currency mainly depends on its use. This paper first introduces a contextualization of blockchain technology and decentralized consensus models. The motivation is then discussed for a new model of personal data exchange in a decentralized but supervised environment. The PoU protocol and its process flow are defined in detail. Furthermore, the paper explores two different approaches regarding the reward mechanism and the incentive model. Finally, the paper focuses on security requirements and how PoU meets such requirements in a permissioned-based blockchain system.

中文翻译：

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使用证明：以用户为中心的数据提供和交换共识

本文为区块链技术提出了一种新的共识算法，即使用证明（PoU）。该共识是针对许可（或私有）区块链引入的，旨在用于以用户为中心的个人数据市场。该市场受制于传统区块链无法遵守的特定法规。使用证明旨在促进一种新的范式，致力于银行，保险等各个部门的使用激励，评估和用户数据控制。其他共识，例如权益证明或历史工作证明，并不鼓励硬币的消费和使用（实际上，权益证明反而相反）。但是，货币的价值主要取决于其用途。本文首先介绍了区块链技术的背景化和去中心化共识模型。然后讨论了在分散但受监管的环境中建立个人数据交换新模型的动机。详细定义了PoU协议及其处理流程。此外，本文探讨了关于奖励机制和激励模型的两种不同方法。最后，本文重点关注安全性要求以及PoU如何在基于许可的区块链系统中满足此类要求。