Mind teaser 3-D puzzle

Abstract

A geometrical three dimensional puzzle containing grouping of spheres which can be differentiated from each other by texture using the sense of touch, or color and shading by using the sense of sight. The open framework can be made of linear rods intersected perpendicularly by ribs. The open framework may also be made of curved rails. At east one void allows for the spheres to be manipulated and moved around within the open framework. The object of the game is to fill each leg with like colored spheres.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the assembled puzzle using a framework of rods and ribs.

FIGS. 2, 3, 4, 5 are isometric views of the assembled puzzle using a framework of curved rails and further shows movement of one of the spheres throughout the framework of curved rails.

FIGS. 2 a, 3 a, 4 a, 5 a are zoom-ins showing movement of one of the spheres throughout the framework of curved rails.

Element                       Number
linear segment or “Leg”       1
linear parrallel rod or “Rod” 2
Rib                           3
Curved Rail                   4
Sphere                        5
Void                          6

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As best seen in the perspective view of FIG. 1, the puzzle in the form of a pyramid is constructed with of an open tubular geometric framework (herein referred to as “open framework”) of six linear segments (herein referred to as “legs”) (1). The legs (1) are each composed of linear parallel length rods (2) which are intersected ninety degrees by circular ribs (3). The legs (1) are then each joined together at their respective ends allowing open and free travel of the differentiated groups of spheres (5).

The legs (1) of the open framework can alternatively be composed of curved rails (4) as seen in FIG. 2-5. The curved rails (4) replace the rod (2) and rib (3) design and give the open framework a more fluidic look.

The open framework can be made from any metal or plastic material. If the open framework is manufactured using a plastic, injection molding would most likely be the preferred process. Injection molding using a plastic or resin is cost effective and has the benefits of quality through repeatability while adhering to close tolerances.

The spheres (5) and corresponding open framework may be scaled to any size. This can render a scaled down version of the invention portable for trips and long waits at airports. A full scale version of the invention can be used for home use. Likewise, a large scale version as tall as a child can be used in toy stores, playgrounds, and children's educational centers. Here the invention can not only teach problem solving skills, but also can help build teamwork skills as teams of children compete against each other.

The open framework legs (1) may be of any color making them specific to gender classes or allowing the buyer to purchase the entire collector's set of colors.

The spheres (5) can have characters or symbols on them so they can be differentiated by not just different colors. Additionally the spheres (5) can have different textures on them so that visually handicapped (blind) people can utilize the game as well.

FIGS. 2 through 5 are isometric views showing movement of one of the spheres (5) throughout the framework of curved rails (4). In the first step FIG. 2, the single colored sphere (5) will move from the left to the right lower rail (4). In the second step FIG. 3, the multi colored sphere (5) will move down and into the left rail (4). In the third step FIG. 4, the single colored sphere (5) will move to the left and up the rail (4). In FIG. 5, we see the single colored sphere (5) joined with its other four like colored spheres (5) completing one leg (1) of the puzzle.

Claims

1. A geometrical three dimensional puzzle comprising: an open tubular geometric framework enclosing a plurality of differentiated groups of spheres.

2. The geometrical three dimensional puzzle of claim 1 having said open tubular geometric framework comprised of legs, each said leg being further comprised of linear parallel length rods which are intersected ninety degrees by circular ribs.

3. The geometrical three dimensional puzzle of claim 1 having said open tubular geometric framework comprised of legs, each said leg being further comprised of curved rails.

4. The geometrical three dimensional puzzle of claim 1 wherein said open tubular geometric framework legs are joined at each end and allow free communication and travel of said spheres.

5. The geometrical three dimensional puzzle of claim 1 having at least one void between said spheres to allow movement, alternate mixing, and final ordering of said spheres.

6. The geometrical three dimensional puzzle of claim 1 wherein said open tubular geometric framework legs is made of a material selected from the group comprising: metal, plastic, thermoplastic, or resin.

7. (canceled)

8. (canceled)

9. (canceled)

10. The three dimensional puzzle of claim 1 is made in the shape selected from the group comprising: pyramid, sphere, or pentagon.

11. (canceled)

12. (canceled)

13. (canceled)

14. (canceled)