aelf - Side chains a brief explaination of how they work

[DJBROTZ]

Let's start with What is a Sidechain:
A Side chain allows tokens from one blockchain to be securely used in a separate parallel blockchain. Tokens can still be moved back to the original chain if necessary. Think of it like how a car driving in the express lane can merge back into the regular highway lanes.

Now that we have the definition of a Side chain, how does aelf's Side chains work?

aelf consists of one Main Chain and multiple Side Chains attached to the Main Chain. This differs from a traditional Single Chain system in that aelf is a "branched eco-system" where the Main Chain works as the backbone of the system and connects to multiple Side Chains (this can even include multiple layers).

In the aelf blockchain each Side chain is dedicated to one type of contract and resolves one type business problem. By dedicating one chain to one contract this allow for tailoring the needs of the commercial requirements of any given business.

When the need arises a branch is created and a new Side chain is made, by doing this it allows for new functions and maintains an "easy to use structure"

In this structure Side chains do not talk to each other. Verification of aelf Side chains is provided by the Main Chain.

This is what makes aelf Blockchain unique and ever evolving.

[HippiePyro]

The way you describe it sounds like sidechains are essentially the same as smart contracts, each designed for a purpose and only interacting with the main chain. I don't see how this is unique or different than what is already available on other platforms, based on your post.