US20140265116A1

US20140265116A1 - Non-cubic logic puzzle

Info

Publication number: US20140265116A1
Application number: US14/210,867
Authority: US
Inventors: Dane Hans Christianson
Original assignee: MOVING PARTS LLC
Current assignee: MOVING PARTS LLC
Priority date: 2013-03-15
Filing date: 2014-03-14
Publication date: 2014-09-18

Abstract

A non-cubic logic puzzle includes a core mechanism, puzzle pieces, and an interconnecting structure. The core mechanism provides a three-dimensional origin of the non-cubic logic puzzle and is coupled to the puzzle pieces. The puzzle pieces are arranged in desired configuration having a first non-cubic pattern in a first plane with respect to three-dimensional origin and a second non-cubic pattern in a second plane with respect to the three-dimensional origin. The interconnecting structure enables the puzzle pieces to change configurations with respect to the desired configuration and to return to the desired configuration, wherein the interconnecting structure allows, for a given plane, a plane-row of puzzles pieces to rotate about the three-dimensional original in a plane-row direction and a plane-column of puzzles pieces to rotate about the three-dimensional original in a plane-column direction.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENTS

This patent application is claiming priority under 35 USC §119(e) to a provisionally filed patent application entitled Extended-Layer Twisting Logic Puzzle, having a provisional filing date of Mar. 15, 2013, and a provisional serial number of 61/799,927, which is incorporated by reference herein.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

NOT APPLICABLE

INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC

NOT APPLICABLE

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Technical Field of the Invention
The present invention is in the field of twisting logic puzzles that include moving pieces that are permuted about a central axis with respect to one another.
2. Description of Related Art
Many twisty puzzles exist today, the most notable being the 3×3×3 Rubik's Cube invented by Hungarian Inventor Erno Rubik. Such puzzles are often comprised of a 3-Dimensional (3D) central axis about which ‘cubies’ of the puzzle may rotate with respect to the layers they make up. A layer is comprised of the cubies directly adjacent to one another that are in the same plane. The 3×3×3 Rubik's Cube is comprised of a 3-axis core and a total of 20 “cubies” of which 8 can rotate as a layer on each face of the cube about each axis. Twisty puzzles of various shapes and different numbers of moving parts are common.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a top or bottom view of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 4-7 are various cross sectional diagrams of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a front or back view of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 9-11 are various cross sectional diagrams of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 12-17 are diagrams of an embodiment of rotating mechanisms for a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a diagram of an example of a non-cubic logic puzzle in a desired configuration;

FIG. 19 is a diagram of an example of a non-cubic logic puzzle rotated from the desired configuration;

FIG. 20 is a diagram of another example of a non-cubic logic puzzle in a desired configuration;

FIG. 21 is a diagram of another example of a non-cubic logic puzzle rotated from the desired configuration;

FIG. 22 is a diagram of another example of plane-row rotation of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 23 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 24 is a top or bottom view of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 25-28 are various cross sectional diagrams of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 29 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 30 is an isometric diagram of another embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 31 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a portion of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 32 is a side view of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 33 is a partial isometric diagram of another embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 34 is a side view of an embodiment of FIG. 33;

FIGS. 35-44 are diagrams of various puzzle pieces of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 45 is a partial isometric diagram of another embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 46 is a side view of an embodiment of FIG. 45; and

FIGS. 47-56 are diagrams of various puzzle pieces of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle that includes a core mechanism (not shown in this figure), a plurality of puzzle pieces (e.g., cubies), and an interconnecting structure (not shown in this figure). The puzzle pieces are arranged in desired configuration (e.g., completed or beginning puzzle formation). In this configuration, the puzzles pieces have a first non-cubic pattern in a first plane with respect to three-dimensional origin and a second non-cubic pattern in a second plane with respect to the three-dimensional origin.
For example, if the first plane is an X-Y plane of a three-dimensional X-Y-Z coordinate system, then the first non-cubic pattern is represented in the top and bottom views. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the first non-cubic pattern is an X or a + sign. Continuing with the example, if the second plane is the X-Z plane of the three-dimensional X-Y-Z coordinate system, then the second non-cubic pattern is represented in the side views. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the second non-cubic pattern is rectangle. Further continuing with the example, if the third plane is the Z-Y plane of the three-dimensional X-Y-Z coordinate system, then a third non-cubic pattern is represented in the front and rear views. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the third non-cubic pattern is rectangle.
As is shown, each puzzle piece includes a number, which is representative of the type of puzzle piece. For example, the puzzle pieces with the number 2 are center top and bottom puzzle pieces. In the desired configuration, this type of puzzle piece is only adjacent to number 8 puzzle pieces. In this embodiment, there are two number 2 puzzle pieces (e.g., one on the top and one on the bottom), which may be constructed as part 2 of FIG. 36 or FIG. 48.
Continuing with the example, the puzzles pieces with the number 5 are center side puzzle pieces. In the desired configuration, this type of puzzle piece is only adjacent to number 9 puzzle pieces. In this embodiment, there are four number 5 puzzle pieces (e.g., one on each side), which may be constructed as part 2 of FIG. 39 or FIG. 51. The example further includes sixteen number 6 corner top and bottom puzzle pieces (e.g., eight on the top and eight on the bottom). In the desired configuration, the number 6 puzzle pieces are adjacent to puzzle pieces number 7 and number 9. Puzzle pieces 6 may be constructed as part 6 of FIG. 40 or FIG. 52.
The example still further includes twenty number 9 puzzle pieces (e.g., 4 on the top, 4 on the bottom, 2 on the front, 2 on the rear, 2 on each of the sides, and 4 at the corners of the rear, sides, and front), which are center edge puzzle pieces. In the desired configuration, the number 9 puzzle pieces are adjacent to puzzle pieces number 5, number, 6, and number 8. Puzzle pieces 9 may be constructed as part 9 of FIG. 43 or FIG. 55.
The example also includes eight number 7 puzzle pieces (e.g., 4 on each of the top and bottom), which are inner corner top and bottom puzzle pieces. The example further includes eight number 8 puzzle pieces (e.g., 4 on each of the top and bottom), which are inner center top and bottom puzzle pieces. In the desired configuration, the number 7 puzzle pieces are adjacent to puzzle pieces number 6 and number 8 and the number 8 puzzle pieces are adjacent to puzzle pieces number 2, number 7, and number 9. Puzzle pieces number 7 may be constructed as part 7 of FIG. 41 or FIG. 53 and puzzle pieces number 8 may be constructed as part 8 of FIG. 42 or FIG. 54.
In the embodiment of FIG. 1, each of the puzzle pieces has the same, or substantially similar, cubic exterior surface. For example, each puzzle piece may have an exterior end cap such as part 4 of FIG. 38 and/or FIG. 50.
FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle that, in the desired configuration, has a plurality of rows and columns in each of the three planes with respect to the three-dimensional origin. In particular, the top and bottom are orientated with respect to the first plane and include a plurality of plane 1 columns (e.g., five plane 1 columns) and a plurality of plane 1 rows (e.g., five plane 1 rows). Each of the sides are orientated with respect to the second plane and include a plurality of plane 2 columns (e.g., three plane 2 columns) and a plurality of plane 2 rows (e.g., five plane 2 rows). Each of the front and back are orientated with respect to the third plane and include a plurality of plane 3 columns (e.g., five plane 3 columns) and a plurality of plane 3 rows (e.g., three plane 3 rows).
With respect to each of the planes, a row or column of puzzles pieces may be rotated. For example, with respect to the first plane, a plane 1 row may be rotated in a plane-row direction. For instance, if a plane 1 row is rotated ninety degrees, it becomes a side row. As another example with respect to the first plane, a plane 1 column may be rotated in a plane-column direction. For instance, if a plane 1 column is rotated ninety degrees, it becomes a front or back column.
As an example with respect to the second plane, a plane 2 row may be rotated in a plane-row direction. For instance, if a plane 2 row is rotated ninety degrees, it becomes a top or bottom row. As another example with respect to the second plane, a plane 2 column may be rotated in a plane-column direction. For instance, if a plane 2 column is rotated ninety degrees, it becomes a front or back column.
As an example with respect to the third plane, a plane 3 row may be rotated in a plane-row direction. For instance, if a plane 3 row is rotated ninety degrees, it becomes a side row. As another example with respect to the three plane, a plane 3 column may be rotated in a plane-column direction. For instance, if a plane 3 column is rotated ninety degrees, it becomes a top or bottom column.
With respect to each of the planes, each row or each column may be individually rotated. If a row is being rotated and is not in line (e.g., rotation is not a multiple of ninety), then columns cannot be rotated and, if a column is being rotated and is not in line, then rows cannot be rotated. As the rows and/or columns of puzzles pieces are rotated in the planes, the non-cubic puzzle changes from its desired configuration to plurality of other configurations.
FIG. 3 is a top or bottom view of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in the desired configuration. The top or bottom view is cross-sectioned in four places and the corresponding cross section views are shown in FIGS. 4-7.
FIG. 4 illustrates a cross sectional view of the plane 1-row 5 of the desired configuration. In this front cross sectional view, a plane 1 row 5 layer includes nine puzzle pieces (e.g., one #5, four of each of #6 and #9).
FIG. 5 illustrates a cross sectional view of the plane 1-row 4 of the desired configuration. In this front cross sectional view, a plane 1 row 4 layer includes twelve exterior puzzle pieces (e.g., two of each of #8 and #9 and four of each of #6 and #7) and three inner puzzle pieces. The inner puzzle pieces may be separate puzzle pieces (e.g., part 10 of FIG. 44 or of FIG. 56) and/or extensions of one or more of the exterior puzzle pieces (e.g., part 5 of FIG. 39 or of FIG. 51).
FIG. 6 illustrates a cross sectional view of the plane 1-row 3 of the desired configuration. In this front cross sectional view, a plane 1 row 3 layer includes twelve exterior puzzle pieces (e.g., two of each of #2 and #5 and four of each of #8 and #9), two inner puzzle pieces, and a core mechanism. The inner puzzle pieces may be separate puzzle pieces and/or extensions of one or more of the exterior puzzle pieces. The core mechanism may be constructed as part 1 of FIG. 35 or of FIG. 47 and part 3 of FIG. 37 or of FIG. 48.
FIG. 7 illustrates a cross sectional view of the plane 1-row 2 of the desired configuration. In this front cross sectional view, a plane 1 row 2 layer includes twelve exterior puzzle pieces (e.g., two of each of #8 and #9 and four of each of #6 and #7) and three inner puzzle pieces. The inner puzzle pieces may be separate puzzle pieces (e.g., part 10 of FIG. 44 or of FIG. 56) and/or extensions of one or more of the exterior puzzle pieces (e.g., part 5 of FIG. 39 or of FIG. 51).
FIG. 8 is a front or back view of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in the desired configuration. The front or back view is cross-sectioned in three places and the corresponding cross section views are shown in FIGS. 9-11.
FIG. 9 illustrates a cross sectional view of the plane 3-row 3 of the desired configuration. In this top or bottom cross sectional view, a plane 3 row 3 layer includes twenty-one puzzle pieces (e.g., one #2, four of each of #7, #8, and #9, and eight of #6).
FIG. 10 illustrates a cross sectional view of the plane 3-row 2 of the desired configuration. In this top or bottom cross sectional view, a plane 3 row 2 layer includes twelve puzzle pieces (e.g., four of #5 and eight of #9), eight inner puzzle pieces, and the core mechanism. The inner puzzle pieces may be separate puzzle pieces (e.g., part 10 of FIG. 44 or of FIG. 56) and/or extensions of one or more of the exterior puzzle pieces (e.g., part 5 of FIG. 39 or of FIG. 51). The core mechanism may be constructed as part 1 of FIG. 35 or of FIG. 47 and part 3 of FIG. 37 or of FIG. 48.
FIG. 11 illustrates a cross sectional view of the plane 3-row 1 of the desired configuration. In this top or bottom cross sectional view, a plane 3 row 1 layer includes twenty-one puzzle pieces (e.g., one #2, four of each of #7, #8, and #9, and eight of #6).
FIGS. 12-17 are diagrams of an embodiment of rotating mechanisms for a non-cubic logic puzzle that form an interconnecting structure of the non-cubic logic puzzle. In general, the interconnecting structure enables the puzzle pieces to change configurations with respect to the desired configuration and to return to the desired configuration. For instance, the interconnecting structure allows, for a given plane, a plane-row of puzzles pieces to rotate about the three-dimensional original in a plane-row direction and a plane-column of puzzles pieces to rotate about the three-dimensional original in a plane-column direction.
FIG. 12 is a top or bottom view of the non-cubic logic puzzle in a desired configuration. The non-cubic logic puzzle includes a plurality of first plane-row rotation mechanisms that allow the plane 1 rows to individually rotation the plane-row direction. As such, one or more plane rows may be rotating at a given time. Further, a plane row does not need to be in alignment (e.g., is aligned with respect to one of the planes) for another plane row to be rotated.
Each of the first plane row rotation mechanisms may be integrated into the puzzle pieces such that channels, tracks, grooves, alignment guides, etc. are formed in the puzzles pieces that allow the puzzle pieces to move with respect to the other puzzle pieces. Alternatively, the mechanisms may be separate physical components that provide channels, tracks, grooves, alignment guides, etc. about which, or in which, the puzzle pieces move. The first plane-row mechanisms prevent plane-column rotation unless the plane-rows of puzzle pieces are in alignment (e.g., are aligned with respect to one of the planes).
FIG. 13 is a top or bottom view of the non-cubic logic puzzle in a desired configuration and includes a plurality of first plane-column rotation mechanisms that allow the plane 1 columns to individually rotation the plane-column direction. As such, one or more plane columns may be rotating at a given time. Further, a plane column does not need to be in alignment (e.g., is aligned with respect to one of the planes) for another plane column to be rotated.
Each of the first plane column rotation mechanisms may be integrated into the puzzle pieces such that channels, tracks, grooves, alignment guides, etc. are formed in the puzzles pieces that allow the puzzle pieces to move with respect to the other puzzle pieces. Alternatively, the mechanisms may be separate physical components that provide channels, tracks, grooves, alignment guides, etc. about which, or in which, the puzzle pieces move. The first plane-column mechanisms prevent plane-row rotation unless the plane-columns of puzzle pieces are in alignment (e.g., are aligned with respect to one of the planes).
FIG. 14 is a front or back view of the non-cubic logic puzzle in a desired configuration and includes a plurality of third plane-row rotation mechanisms that allow the plane 3 rows to individually rotation the plane-row direction. As such, one or more plane rows may be rotating at a given time. Further, a plane row does not need to be in alignment (e.g., is aligned with respect to one of the planes) for another plane row to be rotated.
Each of the third plane row rotation mechanisms may be integrated into the puzzle pieces such that channels, tracks, grooves, alignment guides, etc. are formed in the puzzles pieces that allow the puzzle pieces to move with respect to the other puzzle pieces. Alternatively, the mechanisms may be separate physical components that provide channels, tracks, grooves, alignment guides, etc. about which, or in which, the puzzle pieces move. The third plane-row mechanisms prevent plane-column rotation unless the plane-rows of puzzle pieces are in alignment (e.g., are aligned with respect to one of the planes).
FIG. 15 is a front or back view of the non-cubic logic puzzle in a desired configuration and includes a plurality of third plane-column rotation mechanisms that allow the plane 3 columns to individually rotation the plane-column direction. As such, one or more plane columns may be rotating at a given time. Further, a plane column does not need to be in alignment (e.g., is aligned with respect to one of the planes) for another plane column to be rotated.
Each of the third plane column rotation mechanisms may be integrated into the puzzle pieces such that channels, tracks, grooves, alignment guides, etc. are formed in the puzzles pieces that allow the puzzle pieces to move with respect to the other puzzle pieces. Alternatively, the mechanisms may be separate physical components that provide channels, tracks, grooves, alignment guides, etc. about which, or in which, the puzzle pieces move. The third plane-column mechanisms prevent plane-row rotation unless the plane-columns of puzzle pieces are in alignment (e.g., are aligned with respect to one of the planes).
FIG. 16 is a side view of the non-cubic logic puzzle in a desired configuration and includes a plurality of second plane-row rotation mechanisms that allow the plane 2 rows to individually rotation the plane-row direction. As such, one or more plane rows may be rotating at a given time. Further, a plane row does not need to be in alignment (e.g., is aligned with respect to one of the planes) for another plane row to be rotated.
Each of the second plane row rotation mechanisms may be integrated into the puzzle pieces such that channels, tracks, grooves, alignment guides, etc. are formed in the puzzles pieces that allow the puzzle pieces to move with respect to the other puzzle pieces. Alternatively, the mechanisms may be separate physical components that provide channels, tracks, grooves, alignment guides, etc. about which, or in which, the puzzle pieces move. The second plane-row mechanisms prevent plane-column rotation unless the plane-rows of puzzle pieces are in alignment (e.g., are aligned with respect to one of the planes).
FIG. 17 is a front or back view of the non-cubic logic puzzle in a desired configuration and includes a plurality of second plane-column rotation mechanisms that allow the plane 2 columns to individually rotation the plane-column direction. As such, one or more plane columns may be rotating at a given time. Further, a plane column does not need to be in alignment (e.g., is aligned with respect to one of the planes) for another plane column to be rotated.
Each of the second plane column rotation mechanisms may be integrated into the puzzle pieces such that channels, tracks, grooves, alignment guides, etc. are formed in the puzzles pieces that allow the puzzle pieces to move with respect to the other puzzle pieces. Alternatively, the mechanisms may be separate physical components that provide channels, tracks, grooves, alignment guides, etc. about which, or in which, the puzzle pieces move. The second plane-column mechanisms prevent plane-row rotation unless the plane-columns of puzzle pieces are in alignment (e.g., are aligned with respect to one of the planes).
FIG. 18 is a diagram of an example of a non-cubic logic puzzle in a desired configuration. In this example, the center column (e.g., plane 1 column 3) is going to be rotated ninety degrees. The gray shaded puzzle pieces indicated that they are not the outmost puzzles pieces in the front or back view.
FIG. 19 is a diagram of an example of a non-cubic logic puzzle rotated from the desired configuration. In this example, plane 1 column 3 of FIG. 18 is now plane 3 column 3 and plane 3 column 3 of FIG. 18 is now plane 1 column 3. From this configuration, any of the plane-rows or plane-columns may be rotated.
FIG. 20 is a diagram of another example of a non-cubic logic puzzle in a desired configuration. In this example, the center column (e.g., plane 1 row 3) is going to be rotated ninety degrees. The gray shaded puzzle pieces indicated that they are not the outmost puzzles pieces in the front or back view.
FIG. 21 is a diagram of another example of a non-cubic logic puzzle rotated from the desired configuration. In this example, plane 1 row 3 of FIG. 20 is now plane 3 row 3 and plane 3 row 3 of FIG. 20 is now plane 1 row 3. From this configuration, any of the plane-rows or plane-columns may be rotated. The gray shaded puzzle pieces indicated that they are not the outmost puzzles pieces in the front or back view.
FIG. 22 is a diagram of another example of plane-row rotation of a non-cubic logic puzzle. In this example, a plane 3 row is being rotated and is out of alignment (e.g., not aligned to one of the planes). In this state, the plane row rotating mechanisms prevent plane column rotation until the plane row is in alignment.
FIG. 23 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle that includes a core mechanism (not shown in this figure), a plurality of puzzle pieces (e.g., cubies), and an interconnecting structure (not shown in this figure). The puzzle pieces are arranged in desired configuration (e.g., completed or beginning puzzle formation). In this configuration, the puzzles pieces have a first non-cubic pattern in a first plane with respect to three-dimensional origin and a second non-cubic pattern in a second plane with respect to the three-dimensional origin.
For example, if the first plane is an X-Y plane of a three-dimensional X-Y-Z coordinate system, then the first non-cubic pattern is represented in the top and bottom views. In the embodiment of FIG. 23, the first non-cubic pattern is a rectangle. Continuing with the example, if the second plane is the X-Z plane of the three-dimensional X-Y-Z coordinate system, then the second non-cubic pattern is represented in the side views. In the embodiment of FIG. 23, the second non-cubic pattern is rectangle. Further continuing with the example, if the third plane is the Z-Y plane of the three-dimensional X-Y-Z coordinate system, then a third pattern is represented in the front and rear views. In the embodiment of FIG. 23, the third pattern is a cube.
As is shown, each puzzle piece includes a number, which is representative of the type of puzzle piece. In this embodiment, the puzzle pieces are #2 puzzle pieces, #5 puzzle pieces, #6 puzzle pieces, #7 puzzle pieces, #8 puzzle pieces, and #9 puzzle pieces.
FIG. 24 is a top or bottom view and FIG. 25 is a side view of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle in the desired configuration. The top or bottom view is cross-sectioned in four places and the corresponding cross section views are shown in FIGS. 26-28.
FIG. 26 illustrates a cross sectional view of a plane 1-row 3 of the desired configuration. In this front cross sectional view, a plane 1 row 3 layer includes fifteen puzzle pieces (e.g., one #2, two each of #8 and #9, and four of each of #6 and #7).
FIG. 27 illustrates a cross sectional view of the plane 1-row 2 of the desired configuration. In this front cross sectional view, a plane 1 row 2 layer includes twelve exterior puzzle pieces (e.g., two of each of #2 and #5 and four of each of #8 and #9), two inner puzzle pieces, and a core mechanism. The inner puzzle pieces may be separate puzzle pieces (e.g., part 10 of FIG. 44 or of FIG. 56) and/or extensions of one or more of the exterior puzzle pieces (e.g., part 5 of FIG. 39 or of FIG. 51). The core mechanism may be constructed as part 1 of FIG. 35 or of FIG. 47 and part 3 of FIG. 37 or of FIG. 48.
FIG. 28 illustrates a cross sectional view of a plane 1-row 1 of the desired configuration. In this front cross sectional view, a plane 1 row 1 layer includes fifteen puzzle pieces (e.g., one #2, two each of #8 and #9, and four of each of #6 and #7).
FIG. 29 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle that includes a core mechanism (not shown in this figure), a plurality of puzzle pieces (e.g., cubies), and an interconnecting structure (not shown in this figure). The puzzle pieces are arranged in desired configuration (e.g., completed or beginning puzzle formation). In this configuration, the puzzles pieces have a first non-cubic pattern in a first plane with respect to three-dimensional origin and a second non-cubic pattern in a second plane with respect to the three-dimensional origin.
For example, if the first plane is an X-Y plane of a three-dimensional X-Y-Z coordinate system, then the first non-cubic pattern is represented in the top and bottom views. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the first non-cubic pattern is an X or a + sign. Continuing with the example, if the second plane is the X-Z plane of the three-dimensional X-Y-Z coordinate system, then the second non-cubic pattern is represented in the side views. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the second non-cubic pattern is an X or a + sign. Further continuing with the example, if the third plane is the Z-Y plane of the three-dimensional X-Y-Z coordinate system, then a third non-cubic pattern is represented in the front and rear views. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the third non-cubic pattern is an X or a + sign.
As is shown, each puzzle piece includes a number, which is representative of the type of puzzle piece. For example, the non-cubic logic puzzle may include puzzle pieces #5, #6, and #9.
FIG. 30 is an isometric diagram of another embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle. The puzzle is shown in a solved state, with the call-out numbers indicating the number of the corresponding ‘Part’. The ‘extended layers’ of the puzzle include Part 6, Part 9, Part 5, and Part 4. Part 7, Part 8, Part 4, and Part 2 compose the top face of FIG. 1, where two of Part 6 are connected to each Part 7 and one of Part 9 is connected to each Part 8. Part 10 is not visible in FIG. 1, but constrains the pairs of Part 9 on adjacent extended faces, which can be seen in FIG. 2. Part 8 is in-turn constrained by Part 5 and Part 2, shown in detail by FIG. 3. Part 7 is in-turn constrained by two of Part 8 and Part 10. When the layers rotate, the pieces are constrained by other parts and features described later. The pieces composing the unextended bottom face of the puzzle of FIG. 1 are symmetric with the unextended top face. The puzzle is fully composed of one Part 1, two of Part 2, six of Part 3, six of Part 4, four of part 5, sixteen of Part 6, eight of Part 7, eight of Part 8, sixteen of Part 9, and four of Part 10.
The extended layers are free to rotate only when composed of four of Part 9, four of Part 6, and Part 5. This is due in part to features 8.C, 10.C, and 5.C. Note that Part 2 differs from Part 5 with respect to feature C of each, and 5.A is the elongated feature that gives the central axis the cross shape. Feature 2.C is a curve that constrains Part 8 via 8.D and Part 10 via 10.D. Feature 5.C is flat rather than curved. This allows Part 5 to rotate independently of Part 7, Part 8, and Part 10 when the extended layer is fully composed. Cavities 8.C and 10.C are set to a depth such that they are at the same level as the critical point of feature 8.D and 10 .D. Part 5 can rotate over the cavities designated by 8.C and 10.C because it is at the same height as these features and is flat, rather than curved like feature 2.C, which cannot pass through the cavities 8.C and 10.C.
The construction details of the puzzle is constructed out of sufficiently rigid plastic, and Part 3 is a metal fastener, such as a screw with a spring wrapped around to hold Part 2 and Part 5 tightly to Part 1.
FIG. 31 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a portion of a non-cubic logic puzzle. In this illustration, four of Part 5 are coincident on two pairs of opposite sides of Part 1, and two of Part 2 are coincident with Part 1 on the remaining top and bottom sides. Part 2 and Part 5 are fastened to Part 1 by Part 3 with freedom to rotate about Part 3. Part 4 is attached to Part 5 and Part 2 to cover their cavities.
FIG. 32 is a side view of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle.
FIG. 33 is a partial isometric diagram of another embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle. This is a similar figure to that of FIG. 31 with select Parts hidden to show the way the Parts are interconnected and arranged in the puzzle. In this illustration, two of Part 6 are linked together via features A and B (annotated as 6.A and 6.B) with Part 7 to the cavities of 7.A and 7.B. Part 9 is linked together with Part 8 via features 9.A and 9.B to cavities 8.A and 8.B. Two of Part 9 are linked to Part 10 via features 9.A and 9.B to the respective cavities 10.A and 10.B. Part 7 is constrained by contact between 7.D and adjacent features 8.E and 10.E when not in rotation, and additionally features 2.D/2.C or 5.D when in rotation. Part 8 is constrained by contact between feature 8.D and feature 2.D and 5.D when not in rotation, and feature 8.E and 2.D/2.C or 5.D when in rotation. Part 10 is constrained by feature 10.D in the same manner as Part 8.
FIG. 34 is a side view of an embodiment of FIG. 33.
FIGS. 35-44 are diagrams of various puzzle pieces of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle. Referring in more detail to Parts 6 through 10, features A all have the same radius of curvature, and features B all have the same radius of curvature. Features 7.A, 8.A, and 10.A all have the same thickness, and features 6.A and 9.A are thicker by a small amount (e.g. 0.005″). Features 7.B, 8.B, and 10.B all have the same thickness, and features 6.B and 9.B are thinner by a small amount (e.g. 0.005″). The difference in thickness allows for a slip fit between features 6.B and 9.B and the cavities 7.B, 8.B, and 10.B. These features allow Part 6 and Part 9 to link with Part 7, Part 8, and Part 10 without falling off the puzzle. When all the cavities (Feature A,B) of Part 7, Part 8, and Part 10 are adjacent to one another, they form a complete circular groove through which Part 6 and Part 9 may rotate through, via respective features A,B.
Referring in more detail to Part 10, Part 10 differs from Part 8 only in that it has two sets of feature A and feature B instead of one. The radius of curvature of 10.B does not extend past 3/2 the edge length of the cubies less the depth of cavity B from the outer edge of the cubie in order to prevent intersection of the features 10.B.
In further detail of Parts 6 through 10, the primary cubie edge lengths are all equal to that of 2.E, which is 0.74″ in this scenario. Feature A should have a radius of about 0.75″. Feature B should have a radius of about 0.90″ and a depth of about 0.18″. The depth corresponds to the thicknesses of 6.A plus 6.B and the thicknesses of 9.A plus 9.B. It must be at an appropriate depth to prevent extended layer cubies from falling off the puzzle during rotation of the pieces (0.18″ is sufficient). Features 8.C and 10.C are of a radius marginally more that of the square root of two times the primary edge length of the cubies (2.E) to allow Part 5 to rotate through these cavities.
FIG. 45 is a partial isometric diagram of another embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle.
FIG. 46 is a side view of an embodiment of FIG. 45.
FIGS. 47-56 are diagrams of various puzzle pieces of an embodiment of a non-cubic logic puzzle.
As may be used herein, the terms “substantially” and “approximately” provides an industry-accepted tolerance for its corresponding term and/or relativity between items. Such an industry-accepted tolerance ranges from less than one percent to fifty percent and corresponds to, but is not limited to, component values, integrated circuit process variations, temperature variations, rise and fall times, and/or thermal noise. Such relativity between items ranges from a difference of a few percent to magnitude differences. As may also be used herein, the term(s) “configured to”, “operably coupled to”, “coupled to”, and/or “coupling” includes direct coupling between items and/or indirect coupling between items via an intervening item (e.g., an item includes, but is not limited to, a component, an element, a circuit, and/or a module) where, for an example of indirect coupling, the intervening item does not modify the information of a signal but may adjust its current level, voltage level, and/or power level. As may further be used herein, inferred coupling (i.e., where one element is coupled to another element by inference) includes direct and indirect coupling between two items in the same manner as “coupled to”. As may even further be used herein, the term “configured to”, “operable to”, “coupled to”, or “operably coupled to” indicates that an item includes one or more of power connections, input(s), output(s), etc., to perform, when activated, one or more its corresponding functions and may further include inferred coupling to one or more other items. As may still further be used herein, the term “associated with”, includes direct and/or indirect coupling of separate items and/or one item being embedded within another item.
As may be used herein, the term “compares favorably”, indicates that a comparison between two or more items, signals, etc., provides a desired relationship. For example, when the desired relationship is that signal 1 has a greater magnitude than signal 2, a favorable comparison may be achieved when the magnitude of signal 1 is greater than that of signal 2 or when the magnitude of signal 2 is less than that of signal 1.
As may also be used herein, the terms “processing module”, “processing circuit”, “processor”, and/or “processing unit” may be a single processing device or a plurality of processing devices. Such a processing device may be a microprocessor, micro-controller, digital signal processor, microcomputer, central processing unit, field programmable gate array, programmable logic device, state machine, logic circuitry, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or any device that manipulates signals (analog and/or digital) based on hard coding of the circuitry and/or operational instructions. The processing module, module, processing circuit, and/or processing unit may be, or further include, memory and/or an integrated memory element, which may be a single memory device, a plurality of memory devices, and/or embedded circuitry of another processing module, module, processing circuit, and/or processing unit. Such a memory device may be a read-only memory, random access memory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, static memory, dynamic memory, flash memory, cache memory, and/or any device that stores digital information. Note that if the processing module, module, processing circuit, and/or processing unit includes more than one processing device, the processing devices may be centrally located (e.g., directly coupled together via a wired and/or wireless bus structure) or may be distributedly located (e.g., cloud computing via indirect coupling via a local area network and/or a wide area network). Further note that if the processing module, module, processing circuit, and/or processing unit implements one or more of its functions via a state machine, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or logic circuitry, the memory and/or memory element storing the corresponding operational instructions may be embedded within, or external to, the circuitry comprising the state machine, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or logic circuitry. Still further note that, the memory element may store, and the processing module, module, processing circuit, and/or processing unit executes, hard coded and/or operational instructions corresponding to at least some of the steps and/or functions illustrated in one or more of the Figures. Such a memory device or memory element can be included in an article of manufacture.
One or more embodiments of an invention have been described above with the aid of method steps illustrating the performance of specified functions and relationships thereof. The boundaries and sequence of these functional building blocks and method steps have been arbitrarily defined herein for convenience of description. Alternate boundaries and sequences can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships are appropriately performed. Any such alternate boundaries or sequences are thus within the scope and spirit of the claims. Further, the boundaries of these functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined for convenience of description. Alternate boundaries could be defined as long as the certain significant functions are appropriately performed. Similarly, flow diagram blocks may also have been arbitrarily defined herein to illustrate certain significant functionality. To the extent used, the flow diagram block boundaries and sequence could have been defined otherwise and still perform the certain significant functionality. Such alternate definitions of both functional building blocks and flow diagram blocks and sequences are thus within the scope and spirit of the claimed invention. One of average skill in the art will also recognize that the functional building blocks, and other illustrative blocks, modules and components herein, can be implemented as illustrated or by discrete components, application specific integrated circuits, processors executing appropriate software and the like or any combination thereof.
The one or more embodiments are used herein to illustrate one or more aspects, one or more features, one or more concepts, and/or one or more examples of the invention. A physical embodiment of an apparatus, an article of manufacture, a machine, and/or of a process may include one or more of the aspects, features, concepts, examples, etc. described with reference to one or more of the embodiments discussed herein. Further, from figure to figure, the embodiments may incorporate the same or similarly named functions, steps, modules, etc. that may use the same or different reference numbers and, as such, the functions, steps, modules, etc. may be the same or similar functions, steps, modules, etc. or different ones.
Unless specifically stated to the contra, signals to, from, and/or between elements in a figure of any of the figures presented herein may be analog or digital, continuous time or discrete time, and single-ended or differential. For instance, if a signal path is shown as a single-ended path, it also represents a differential signal path. Similarly, if a signal path is shown as a differential path, it also represents a single-ended signal path. While one or more particular architectures are described herein, other architectures can likewise be implemented that use one or more data buses not expressly shown, direct connectivity between elements, and/or indirect coupling between other elements as recognized by one of average skill in the art.
The term “module” is used in the description of one or more of the embodiments. A module includes a processing module, a processor, a functional block, hardware, and/or memory that stores operational instructions for performing one or more functions as may be described herein. Note that, if the module is implemented via hardware, the hardware may operate independently and/or in conjunction with software and/or firmware. As also used herein, a module may contain one or more sub-modules, each of which may be one or more modules.
While particular combinations of various functions and features of the one or more embodiments have been expressly described herein, other combinations of these features and functions are likewise possible. The present disclosure of an invention is not limited by the particular examples disclosed herein and expressly incorporates these other combinations.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A non-cubic logic puzzle comprises:

a core mechanism to provide a three-dimensional origin of the non-cubic logic puzzle;

a plurality of puzzle pieces coupled to the core mechanism, wherein the plurality of puzzle pieces are arranged in desired configuration having:

a first non-cubic pattern in a first plane with respect to three-dimensional origin; and

a second non-cubic pattern in a second plane with respect to the three-dimensional origin; and

an interconnecting structure that enables the plurality of puzzle pieces to change configurations with respect to the desired configuration and to return to the desired configuration, wherein the interconnecting structure allows, for a given plane, a plane-row of puzzles pieces to rotate about the three-dimensional original in a plane-row direction and a plane-column of puzzles pieces to rotate about the three-dimensional original in a plane-column direction.

2. The non-cubic logic puzzle of claim 1, wherein the interconnecting structure further comprises:

a first mechanism that, when the plane-row of puzzles pieces are rotating about the three-dimensional original in the plane-row direction, prevents plane-column direction of rotation of the plane-column of puzzle pieces; and

a second mechanism that, when the plane-column of puzzles pieces are rotating about the three-dimensional original in the plane-column direction, prevents plane-row direction of rotation of the plane-row of puzzle pieces.

3. The non-cubic logic puzzle of claim 1, wherein the interconnecting structure further comprises:

a plurality of plane-row mechanisms that allows, for the given plane, each of a plurality of plane-row of puzzles pieces to independently rotate about the three-dimensional original in the plane-row direction; and

a plurality of plane-column mechanisms that allows, for the given plane, each of a plurality of plane-column of puzzles pieces to independently rotate about the three-dimensional original in the plane-column direction;

wherein the plurality of plane-row mechanisms prevents plane-column direction of rotation of each of the plurality of plane-column of puzzle pieces when one or more of the plurality of plane-row of puzzles pieces are rotating about the three-dimensional original in the plane-row direction; and

wherein the plurality of plane-column mechanisms prevents plane-row direction of rotation of each of the plurality of plane-row of puzzle pieces when one or more of the plurality of plane-column of puzzles pieces are rotating about the three-dimensional original in the plane-column direction.

4. The non-cubic logic puzzle of claim 1 further comprises:

the interconnecting structure is integrated into the plurality of puzzle pieces.

5. The non-cubic logic puzzle of claim 1, wherein the plurality of puzzle pieces comprises:

a set of center top and bottom puzzles pieces having a cubic exterior surface;

a set of center side puzzle pieces having the cubic exterior surface;

a set of corner top and bottom puzzle pieces having the cubic exterior surface;

a set of outer edge center top, bottom, and side puzzle pieces having the cubic exterior surface;

a set of inner corner top and bottom puzzle pieces having the cubic exterior surface; and

a set of inner center top and bottom puzzle pieces having the cubic exterior surface.

6. The non-cubic logic puzzle of claim 5, wherein the plurality of puzzle pieces comprises:

one or more inner pieces.

7. The non-cubic logic puzzle of claim 1 further comprises:

the first plane being an X-Y plane with respect to the three-dimensional origin; and

the second plane being an X-Z plane pattern with respect to the three-dimensional origin.

8. The non-cubic logic puzzle of claim 1, wherein the plurality of puzzle pieces are arranged in desired configuration having further comprises:

a third non-cubic pattern in a third plane with respect to three-dimensional origin.

9. The non-cubic logic puzzle of claim 1, wherein the plurality of puzzle pieces are arranged in desired configuration having further comprises:

a cubic pattern in a third plane with respect to three-dimensional origin.

10. The non-cubic logic puzzle of claim 1, wherein the plurality of puzzle pieces are arranged in desired configuration having further comprises:

the first non-cubic pattern substantially equaling the second non-cubic pattern.