Are you an LLM? Read llms.txt for a summary of the docs, or llms-full.txt for the full context.
Skip to content

Crosschain Architecture

The Problem

Most privacy protocols deploy a separate pool on each chain.

This fragments the anonymity set:

  • fewer users per pool
  • weaker privacy guarantees
  • worse UX across chains

The Solution

Shinobi Cash maintains one canonical privacy pool on a single chain, while allowing users to deposit from and withdraw to many chains.

Result:
One pool. Every chain. Stronger anonymity.

Key Concepts

TermMeaning
Pool chainThe chain where the privacy pool lives
Origin chainAny chain users deposit from or withdraw to
IntentA request to move funds across chains
SolverAn off-chain actor that fulfills intents for a fee
EscrowFunds locked until the intent is completed or expires

How Solvers Work

Solvers are permissionless off-chain actors.

They:

  1. Monitor chains for new intents
  2. Execute the requested action on the destination chain
  3. Prove execution via an oracle
  4. Receive escrowed funds as payment

A solver may choose not to act, but cannot steal funds.

Crosschain Deposits (High Level)

  1. User deposits funds on an origin chain
  2. Funds are escrowed and an intent is created
  3. A solver fulfills the intent on the pool chain
  4. A deposit commitment is added to the privacy pool
  5. Solver proves completion and receives escrowed funds

Deposits are only accepted if the intent corresponds to a real escrowed deposit.

Crosschain Withdrawals (High Level)

  1. User generates a zero-knowledge proof on the pool chain
  2. A withdrawal intent is created and funds are escrowed
  3. A solver executes the withdrawal on the destination chain
  4. User receives funds
  5. Solver proves completion and receives escrowed funds

Withdrawals are privacy-preserving and unlinkable to deposits.

Refunds and Failure Handling

If an intent is not filled before expiry:

FlowWhat Happens
DepositFunds are returned directly to the depositor
WithdrawalA refund commitment is created in the pool

This ensures funds are never lost, even if no solver participates.

What This Design Guarantees

  • One shared anonymity set across chains
  • No reliance on trusted relayers
  • No loss of funds due to solver failure
  • Privacy preserved across chains

Learn More