THREE-DIMENSIONAL PUZZLE

Abstract

The invention provides for a series of five related three-dimensional mechanical puzzle devices comprising of a real or imaginary spherical support element and a plurality of moveable interlocking shapes which can be manipulated around any of a number of distinct axes to assume a very high number of configurations.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The presented invention relates generally to three dimensional puzzles and toys and electronic simulations thereof and particularly to those in which a plurality of outer bodies or segments are rotated in discreet groups around a plurality of axes so that the outer bodies positions relative to each other may be presented in different combinations.

BACKGROUND ART

Research into existing patents reveal three broad classes of three-dimensional puzzle devices in which the current state-of-the-art can be identified and compared against my concept.

The first class includes that popularly known as the “Rubik's Cube” in which a rigid three dimensional shape is divided into numerous segments which can not be disassembled but may be manipulated around various axes to assume various configurations.

The generally accepted concept for the “Rubik's Cube” can be described as a device comprising twenty-six elements rotating around any of three distinct, perpendicular axes in groups of nine; the desirable configuration being defined by alignment of six differing colours on the opposing faces.

There have been numerous further developments of the idea which include a simplified version comprising eight elements rotating around any of three distinct, perpendicular axes in groups of four. In addition, various key patterns and geometry have been introduced in order to define the desirable configuration.

Due to the incorporation of four or more rotational axes it is herein disclosed that the Dioctipoid Series of devices are significantly different to this class of concepts.

A second class of variation can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 4,706,956 REGULAR POLYHEDRAN PUZZLES (Abu-Shumays) in which a three dimensional polygon is divided by planes normal to the axes of rotation defined. Thus a recurring pattern of segments can be visualised for various combinations of axes and planes. Analysis of their devices show that the resultant component pieces of the solid polyhedron will always include a corner component piece and edge component pieces which will be free to rotate around said centre component. Said patent does not show a means by which the centre components are allowed to move other than by rotation around the component axis and does not claim such. From this it is clear that the corner components will always maintain the same spatial relationship to each other and are not allowed to migrate around the periphery of the device

A similar idea in the same class can also be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,358,247 PUZZLE BALL (Meffert) and FR2667797 DODECAHEDRAL DEVICE . . . (Miodrag). Again the centres of rotation are fixed in relationship to each other with only peripheral elements allowed to move. This also holds true for the original “Rubik's Cube” concept.

My invention significantly differs in concept to examples given in paragraphs 3.6 & 3.7 in that all exterior segments are allowed to follow a plurality of fixed trajectories around the device by means defined within this application, there are no fixed exterior elements and therefore it is realised a device which is truly polymorphic.

A third class of puzzle concepts can be loosely defined as where the external elements are not constrained through close contact with each other but are allowed to exchange positions by being dislocated so passing over or under each other or into a vacant space to reassume a different configuration. An example of this art is described in WO2006089836 BALL SHAPED PUZZLE (Wittewrongel) which contains a detachable segment creating said space.

My invention significantly differs in concept to this example in that dislocation in a radial direction is prohibited with all segments being constrained within trajectories defined by the geometry of the contacting faces of the exterior segments as defined in this application.

In addition, my invention significantly differs in concept to this class in that the use of an empty space as a means to provide a trajectory in which to allow segments to move has not been employed.

Initial search by the UK Patent Office against the UK patent application (Reference GB0704723.6), from which priority is claimed herein, resulted in the citation of a number of patents. By way of discussion, further arguments regarding these examples of prior art are presented below.

With reference to WO 91/03293 Pataki et al.

The lack of an overall pictorial view for the device makes it difficult to determine its overall appearance but does allow certain assumptions to be made.

A central fixed element (Reference WO 91/03293, FIG. 2 & FIG. 3) is be used in maintaining the integrity of the unit and to define an axis system around which the components rotate. Use of the terms “Central member”, “Axle” etc.

Use of Axes I, II, III & IV describes a half-tetrahedral axis system in which the external segments orbit around a central exterior fixed element. Certain exterior elements in Pataki's design are thus in a fixed relationship to each other.

Pataki et Al. also claim an invention without a central fixed element which is difficult or impossible to construct using the disclosed figures. However it is also stated that the operation of this toy is identical to that of the first embodiment (Reference WO 91/03293 Para. 15). Thus arguments made for one embodiment are valid for both embodiments.

With reference to paragraph 3.8 above, my invention significantly differs in concept as there are no fixed exterior elements.

While examination of the mosaics do show certain similarities between Pataki's FIG. 21 and my part 6-11, it must also be noted that there is no equivalent to other details claimed. Therefore Pataki's device can not be assembled and made to function in a manner similar to any of my own.

In the light of the above statements, I submit that any of my devices are different in design, geometry and concept to those embodiments disclosed by Pataki et al.

With reference to US2005/0230908 Cabeza et al.

The abstract for this invention states “three planes perpendicular to the vertical axis . . . ” thus denoting three axes of rotation.

This invention carries a further four elements which are also free to rotate on each of the faces allowing a higher number of permutations but the basis for the mechanism is still clearly a “RUBIK'S CUBE”:

In operation this device would be similar to that of the device described in paragraph 3.4 of this application.

In the light of the above statements, I submit that any of my devices are different in design, geometry and concept to those embodiments disclosed by Cabeza et al.

With reference to WO2007/028837 A1 Cabeza et al.

This disclosure is believed to be an improved variation of the same invention as that described above in paragraph 3.12.2; the same arguments therefore apply.

With reference to GB2 345 863 A Khoudary.

Upon close examination, this disclosure bears a striking similarity to the internal workings of the “Rubik's Cube” in which the puzzle is based upon a 3-axis-at-90-degrees system held together with a central “spider” element.

In the light of the above statements, I submit that any of my devices are different in design, geometry and concept to those embodiments disclosed by Khoudary.

With reference to U.S. Pat. No. 5,566,941 Destics

The abstract describes a device “divided into three sets of opposing domes” and upon analysis I again submit that this puzzle is based upon a 3-axis-at-90-degrees system as described in FIG. 5 of his disclosure.

In the light of the above statements, I submit that any of my devices are different in design, geometry and concept to those embodiments disclosed by Destics.

With reference to WO 00/72929 A1 Spykerman.

This disclosure bears certain similarities to that disclosed in paragraph 2.5 above but is simpler in operation where the “arms” rotate around axes. Upon analysis I again submit that this puzzle is based upon a 3-axis-at-90-degrees system as shown in FIG. 1 of his disclosure.

In the light of the above statements, I submit that any of my devices are different in design, geometry and concept to those embodiments disclosed by Spykerman.

With reference to U.S. Pat. No. 5,836,584 Chen.

This disclosure is believed to be an improved variation of the same invention as that described above in paragraph 3.12.16; the same arguments therefore apply.

With reference to EURO 88103986.1, Gyovai.

The document discloses a spherical puzzle divided by four parallel lateral planes and eight vertical planes set 45 degrees apart. Also to be noted is the rotation symmetry axes for the device; there are three axes set at 90 degrees with a further two axes generated by rotation around north south by 45 degrees. Thus 45 degree lateral rotation is possible for any of the lateral segments and 180 degree rotation possible in any of the horizontal axes.

Patent protection is specifically claimed in my invention for symmetrical figures; the device disclosed in Gyovai's application can be clearly seen to be asymmetrical.

With reference to my application, from paragraph 4.2.2,

• • “ . . . joining the eight opposite vertices of a cube . . . ” (4 axes) from paragraph 4.4.2,
  • “ . . . joining the twelve opposite vertices of an icosahedron . . . ” (6 axes) and from paragraph 4.6.2,
  • “ . . . joining the twenty opposite vertices of a dodecahedron . . . ” (10 axes).

In the light of the above statements, I submit that any of my devices are different in design, geometry and concept to those embodiments disclosed by Gyovai.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

This invention introduces a series of three-dimension puzzle devices and electronic simulacra of same as described below.

Embodiments A thru D.

In Embodiment A, it is disclosed a mechanical device comprising of interlocking components defined by the application of a unique geometry solution whereas a three dimensional shape is divided into ninety exterior segment elements by swept conic sections to form a recurring pattern of five distinct exterior segment element shapes to the exterior surface.

The exterior segment elements in Embodiment A are allowed to form groupings of either twelve or thirty-three segments which can be manipulated independently of the remaining segments through one-hundred-and-twenty degree steps around any of four distinct axes denoted A, B, C & D defined by joining the eight opposite vertices of a cube thus allowing the device to assume a very high number of configurations.

Said geometry from paragraphs 4.2.1 & 4.2.2 is as shown in the FIG. 01 whereas the shapes of exterior segment elements 1-1, 1-2, 1-3, 1-4 & 1-5 have been developed using said geometrical rules.

The resultant contacting faces of the exterior segment elements defined by the application of said geometry solution from paragraph 4.2.1 creates a plurality of rigidly defined trajectories for all exterior segment elements with all exterior segment elements being constrained to travel within said trajectories which is unique to, and characteristic of, this invention.

In any embodiment of the device the external appearance of the device is keyed so that the unique identity of each external segment can be determined and related to the global reference frame thus realising a puzzle which can be regarded as solved if the segments are positioned in a desirable rather than a undesirable configuration.

In the Embodiment A, this has been realised by sculpting and printing the exterior of the device with recurring graphic artwork whereas each exterior segment element carries enough information to differentiate it from the others.

Embodiment A is shown in FIG. 02, where the mechanical realisation has been superimposed over the construction geometry. Therefore exterior segment elements 1-1, 1-2, 1-3, 1-4 & 1-5 have been developed into exterior segment part assemblys 2-1, 2-2, 2-3, 2-4 & 2-5 respectively.

In the concept as disclosed in Embodiment B, the device has been finished into a smooth sphere for the affixation of stickers, paint, texturing, or other means of finishing said device with artwork, be it a view of the earth, moon, golf ball, football or indeed any popularly recognisable spherical object.

Embodiment B is shown in FIG. 48.

In the concept as disclosed in Embodiment C, the device has been sculpted into a regular figure for the affixation of stickers, paint, texturing, or other means of finishing said device with keying artwork.

Embodiment C is shown in FIG. 49 and FIG. 50.

In the concept as disclosed in Embodiment D, the device has been sculpted into a irregular figure for the affixation of stickers, paint, texturing, or other means of finishing said device with keying artwork, be it a view of a head, fruit, or indeed any popularly recognisable object.

Embodiment ID is shown in FIG. 50.

Further to embodiments A thru D, the visible appearance of the device may be simplified by the omission of, occlusion of, and/or identical printing of one or more of the recurring exterior segment elements while still constraining the remaining segments to follow the trajectories described in paragraph 4.2.4 thus realising a simpler device with a lesser number of configurations and therefore still within the scope of this invention.

In the Embodiments A thru D the segments are held in position to realise a device by means of interlocking male tongues and receiving female slots. Restraining features are also provided at the poles (Detail parts 3-5b and 3-6b) of the axes as necessary in order to prevent radial dislocations during use. In all embodiments these features selectively release and engage the exterior segment elements as various twists and turns performed by the user manipulate the segments through the defined trajectories.

For Embodiments A thru D, the features are interlocked in accordance with FIG. 03 and FIG. 04.

The design for the mechanical realisation of Preferred Embodiment A is shown as a partially exploded assembly in FIG. 05 whereas the sub-assembly parts have been broken into detail parts suitable for assembly.

In FIG. 06 it is pictorially shown the sub assembly of the centre element 2-6, said centre element can also be seen in the above section views, FIG. 03 and FIG. 04.

In FIG. 07 thru to FIG. 15 pictorial views of detail parts 3-1, 3-2, 3-3a, 3-3b, 3,4, 3-5a, 3-5b, 3-6a & 3-6b respectively are shown.

Therefore, for embodiment A, it is disclosed a device comprising of,

• • six off (Qty 6) exterior segment element 2-1 comprising of detail 3-1,
  • twenty-four off (Qty 24) exterior segment element 2-2 comprising of detail 3-2,
  • twenty-four off (Qty 24) exterior segment element 2-3 comprising of detail 3-3a and detail 3-3b,
  • twenty-four off (Qty 24) exterior segment element 2-4 comprising of detail 3-4,
  • twelve off (Qty 12) exterior segment element 2-5 comprising of detail 3-5a and detail 3-5b,
  • and one off (Qty 1) centre element 2-6, which is comprised of one off (Qty 1) part 3-6a and eight off (Qty 8) part 3-6b.

The design for the mechanical realisation of Embodiments B thru D will realise a number of detail parts similar in shape and quantity to those realised in paragraph 4.2.17 with only the exterior surface of the device differing in detail.

Embodiments E and I thru K. It may also be noted for clarification that this embodiment can be considered a simplified variation of the device disclosed in embodiment A.

In Embodiment E, it is disclosed a mechanical device comprising of interlocking components defined by the application of a unique geometry solution whereas a three dimensional shape is divided into forty-two exterior segment elements by swept conic sections to form a recurring pattern of five distinct exterior segment element shapes to the exterior surface.

The exterior segment elements in Embodiment E are allowed to form groupings of fifteen segments which can be manipulated independently of the remaining segments through one-hundred-and-twenty degree steps around any of four distinct axes denoted A, B, C & D defined by joining the eight opposite vertices of a cube thus allowing the device to assume a very high number of configurations.

Said geometry from paragraphs 4.3.1 & 4.3.2 is as shown in the FIG. 16 whereas the shapes of exterior segment elements 4-11, 4-12 & 4-13 have been developed using said geometrical rules.

The resultant contacting faces of the exterior segment elements defined by the application of said geometry solution from paragraph 4.3.1 creates a plurality of rigidly defined trajectories for all exterior segment elements with all exterior segment elements being constrained to travel within said trajectories which is unique to, and characteristic of, this invention.

In any embodiment of the device the external appearance of the device is keyed so that the unique identity of each external segment can be determined and related to the global reference frame thus realising a puzzle which can be regarded as solved if the segments are positioned in a desirable rather than a undesirable configuration.

In Embodiment E, this has been realised by sculpting and printing the exterior of the device with recurring graphic artwork whereas each exterior segment element carries enough information to differentiate it from the others.

Embodiment E is shown in FIG. 17, where the mechanical realisation has been superimposed over the construction geometry. Therefore exterior segment elements 4-11, 4-12 & 4-13 have been developed into exterior segment part assemblys 5-11, 5-12 & 5-13 respectively.

In the concept as disclosed in Embodiment I, the device has been finished into a smooth sphere for the affixation of stickers, paint, texturing, or other means of finishing said device with artwork, be it a view of the earth, moon, golf ball, football or indeed any popularly recognisable spherical object.

Embodiment I is shown in FIG. 52.

In the concept as disclosed in Embodiment J, the device has been sculpted into a regular figure for the affixation of stickers, paint, texturing, or other means of finishing said device with keying artwork.

Embodiment J is shown in FIG. 53 and FIG. 54.

In the concept as disclosed in Embodiment K, the device has been sculpted into a irregular figure for the affixation of stickers, paint, texturing, or other means of finishing said device with keying artwork, be it a view of a head, fruit, or indeed any popularly recognisable object.

Embodiment K is shown in FIG. 55.

Further to embodiments E and I thru K, the visible appearance of the device may be simplified by the omission of, occlusion of, and/or identical printing of one or more of the recurring exterior segment elements while still constraining the remaining segments to follow the trajectories described in paragraph 4.3.4 thus realising a simpler device with a lesser number of configurations and therefore still within the scope of this invention.

In the Embodiments E and I thru K the segments are held in position to realise a device by means of interlocking male tongues and receiving female slots. Restraining features are also provided at the poles of the axes as necessary in order to prevent radial dislocations during use. In all embodiments these features selectively release and engage the exterior segment elements as various twists and turns performed by the user manipulate the segments through the defined trajectories.

For Embodiments E and I thru K the features are interlocked in accordance with FIG. 18.

The design for the mechanical realisation Embodiment E is shown as a partially exploded assembly in FIG. 19 whereas the sub-assembly parts have been broken into detail parts suitable for assembly.

In FIG. 24 it is pictorially shown the centre element 6-14, said centre element can also be seen in the section view, FIG. 18.

In FIG. 20 thru to FIG. 24 pictorial views of detail parts 6-11, 6-12, 6-13a, 6-13b & 6-14 respectively are shown.

Therefore, for embodiment A, it is disclosed a device comprising of,

• • six off (Qty 6) exterior segment element 5-11 comprising of detail 6-11,
  • twenty-four off (Qty 24) exterior segment element 5-12 comprising of detail 6-12,
  • twelve off (Qty 12) exterior segment element 5-13 comprising of detail 6-13a and detail 6-31b,
  • and one off (Qty 1) centre element 5-14 comprising of detail 6-14.

Embodiment E may also be realised with restraining features at the poles by the incorporation of detail 3-5b to detail 6-13 and the introduction of centre element 2-6 to recreate an identical arrangement as that disclosed in embodiment A.

The design for the mechanical realisation of Embodiments I thru K will realise a number of detail parts similar in shape and quantity to those realised in paragraph 4.3.17 with only the exterior surface differing in detail.

Embodiments F and L thru N.

In the Embodiment F, it is disclosed a mechanical device comprising of interlocking components defined by the application of a unique geometry solution whereas a three dimensional shape is divided into two-hundred-and-ten exterior segment elements by swept conic sections to form a recurring pattern of three distinct exterior segment element shapes to the exterior surface.

The exterior segment elements in Embodiment F are allowed to form groupings of twenty-five or sixty segments which can be manipulated independently of the remaining segments through seventy-two degree steps around any of six distinct axes denoted F, G, H, J, K & L defined by joining the twelve opposite vertices of a Icosahedron thus allowing the device to assume a very high number of configurations.

Said Geometry from Paragraphs 4.4.1 & 4.4.2 is as shown FIGS. 25 & 26 whereas the shapes of exterior segment elements 7-31, 7-33 & 7-35 have been developed using said geometrical rules.

The resultant contacting faces of the exterior segment elements defined by the application of said geometry solution from paragraphs 4.4.1 & 4.4.2 create a plurality of rigidly defined trajectories for all exterior segment elements with all exterior segment elements being constrained to travel within said trajectories which is unique to, and characteristic of, this invention.

In any embodiment of the device the external appearance of the device is keyed so that the unique identity of each external segment can be determined and related to the global reference frame thus realising a puzzle which can be regarded as solved if the segments are positioned in a desirable rather than a undesirable configuration.

In Embodiment F, this has been realised by sculpting and printing the exterior of the device with recurring graphic artwork whereas each exterior segment element carries enough information to differentiate it from the others.

Realisation of artwork for Embodiment F to be carried out in accordance with the principles shown in paragraphs 4.2.7 & 4.3.7.

In a further development of the concept as disclosed in Embodiment L the device has been finished into a smooth sphere for the affixation of stickers, paint, texturing, or other means of finishing said device with artwork, be it a view of the earth, moon, golf ball, football or indeed any popularly recognisable spherical object.

Realisation of Embodiment L to be carried out in accordance with the principles shown in paragraphs 4.2.9 & 4.3.9 whereas the intersection pattern from paragraph 4.2.1 is subtracted from a smooth sphere.

In the concept as disclosed in Embodiment M, the device has been sculpted into a regular figure for the affixation of stickers, paint, texturing, or other means of finishing said device with keying artwork.

Realisation of Embodiment M to be carried out in accordance with the principles shown in paragraphs 4.2.11 & 4.3.11 whereas the intersection pattern from paragraph 4.4.1 is subtracted from a regular Icosahedron.

In the concept as disclosed in Embodiment N, the device has been sculpted into a irregular figure for the affixation of stickers, paint, texturing, or other means of finishing said device with keying artwork, be it a view of a head, fruit, or indeed any popularly recognisable object.

Realisation of Embodiment N to be carried out in accordance with the principles shown in paragraphs 4.2.13 & 4.3.13 whereas the intersection pattern from paragraph 4.4.1 is subtracted from an irregular solid.

Further to embodiments F and L thru N, the visible appearance of the device may be simplified by the omission of, occlusion of, and/or identical printing of one or more of the recurring exterior segment elements while still constraining the remaining segments to follow the trajectories described in paragraph 4.4.1 thus realising a simpler device with a lesser number of configurations and therefore still within the scope of this invention.

In the Embodiments F and L thru N, the segments are held in position to realise a device by means of interlocking male tongues and receiving female slots. Restraining features are also provided at the poles of the axes as necessary in order to prevent lateral dislocations during use. In all embodiments these features selectively release and engage the exterior segment elements as various twists and turns performed by the user manipulate the segments through the defined trajectories.

For Embodiments F and L thru M, the features are interlocked in the principles established in accordance with paragraphs 4.2.16 & 4.3.16 with male and female interlock position as shown in drawing DTD-000-33 Rev 1.

The design for the mechanical realisation of Preferred Embodiment F is envisioned as details -031, -033, -035 as external instances with additional centre elements and details realised in accordance with principles described in paragraphs 4.2.17 & 4.3.17.

INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (RULE 20.6)

Therefore, for embodiment F, it is disclosed a device comprising of,

• • thirty off (Qty 30) exterior segment element 7-31, as shown in FIG. 28. The realised part is essentially the same geometry as that of part 6-11 shown in FIG. 20.
  • one-hundred-and-twenty off (Qty 120) exterior segment element 7-33, as shown in FIG. 29: The realised part has essentially the same features as part 3-2 shown in FIG. 08.
  • sixty off (Qty 60) exterior segment element 7-35, as shown in FIG. 30. The realised part can be considered as a rhombus shape with essentially the same features as part 3-1 shown in FIG. 07.
  • and one off (Qty 1) spherical centre element 6-14 shown in FIG. 24.

Embodiment F may also be realised with restraining features at the poles by the incorporation of detail 3-5b to detail 7-31 and the introduction of centre elements 2-6b to recreate a similar arrangement as that disclosed in embodiment A.

The design for the mechanical realisation of Embodiments L thru N will realise a number of detail parts similar in shape and quantity to those realised in paragraph 4.4.17 with only the exterior surface differing in detail.

Embodiments G and O thru Q. It may be noted for clarification that this embodiment can be considered a simplified variation of the device disclosed in embodiment F.

In the Embodiment G, it is disclosed a mechanical device comprising of interlocking components defined by the application of a unique geometry solution whereas a three dimensional shape is divided into fifty exterior segment elements by swept conic sections to form a recurring pattern of two distinct exterior segment element shapes to the exterior surface.

The exterior segment elements in Embodiment G are allowed to form groupings of fifteen segments which can be manipulated independently of the remaining segments through seventy-two degree steps around any of six distinct axes denoted F, G, H, J, K & L defined by joining the twelve opposite vertices of a Icosahedron thus allowing the device to assume a very high number of configurations.

Said Geometry from Paragraph 4.4.1 is as shown in FIGS. 31 & 32 whereas the shapes of exterior segment elements 8-41 & 8-43 have been developed using said geometrical rules.

The resultant contacting faces of the exterior segment elements defined by the application of said geometry solution from paragraph 4.5.1 & 4.5.2 creates a plurality of rigidly defined trajectories for all exterior segment elements with all exterior segment elements being constrained to travel within said trajectories which is unique to, and characteristic of, this invention.

In any embodiment of the device the external appearance of the device is keyed so that the unique identity of each external segment can be determined and related to the global reference frame thus realising a puzzle which can be regarded as solved if the segments are positioned in a desirable rather than a undesirable configuration.

In Embodiment G, this has been realised by sculpting and printing the exterior of the device with recurring graphic artwork whereas each exterior segment element carries enough information to differentiate it from the others.

Realisation of artwork for Embodiment G to be carried out in accordance with the principles shown in paragraphs 4.2.7, 4.3.7 & 4.4.7.

In a further development of the concept as disclosed in Embodiment O, the device has been finished into a smooth sphere for the affixation of stickers, paint, texturing, or other means of finishing said device with artwork, be it a view of the earth, moon, golf ball, football or indeed any popularly recognisable spherical object.

Realisation of Embodiment O to be carried out in accordance with the principles shown in paragraphs 4.2.9 & 4.3.9 whereas the intersection pattern from paragraph 4.2.1 is subtracted from a smooth sphere.

In the concept as disclosed in Embodiment P, the device has been sculpted into a regular figure for the affixation of stickers, paint, texturing, or other means of finishing said device with keying artwork.

Realisation of Embodiment P to be carried out in accordance with the principles shown in paragraphs 4.3.11 & 4.4.11 and as shown in FIG. 56 whereas the intersection pattern from paragraph 4.5.1 is subtracted from a regular Icosahedron.

In the concept as disclosed in Embodiment Q, the device has been sculpted into a irregular figure for the affixation of stickers, paint, texturing, or other means of finishing said device with keying artwork, be it a view of a head, fruit, or indeed any popularly recognisable object.

Realisation of Embodiment Q to be carried out in accordance with the principles shown in paragraphs 4.2.13, 4.3.13 & 4.4.13 whereas the intersection pattern from paragraph 4.5.1 is subtracted from an irregular solid.

Further to embodiments G and N thru O, the visible appearance of the device may be simplified by the omission of, occlusion of, and/or identical printing of one or more of the recurring exterior segment elements while still constraining the remaining segments to follow the trajectories described in paragraph 4.5.1 thus realising a simpler device with a lesser number of configurations and therefore still within the scope of this invention.

In the Embodiments G and O thru Q, the segments are held in position to realise a device by means of interlocking male tongues and receiving female slots. Restraining features are also provided at the poles of the axes as necessary in order to prevent lateral dislocations during use. In all embodiments these features selectively release and engage the exterior segment elements as various twists and turns performed by the user manipulate the segments through the defined trajectories.

For Embodiments G and O thru Q, the features are interlocked in the principles established in accordance with paragraphs 4.2.16 & 4.3.16 with male and female interlock arrangement as shown in FIGS. 33 & 39.

The design for the mechanical realisation of Embodiment G is envisioned as details realised in accordance with principles described in paragraphs 4.2.17, 4.3.17 & 4.4.17.

This is also shown in FIG. 36, where the mechanical realisation has been superimposed over the construction geometry. Therefore exterior segment elements 8-41 & 8-43 have been developed into exterior segment part assemblys 9-41 & 9-43 respectively.

Further development of these parts is illustrated by FIG. 37 showing a pictorial view of the interlocked exterior elements, FIG. 38 showing a view thru their plane of symmetry, FIG. 39 showing the interlocking arrangement and central element and FIG. 40 showing a view on the end of the two elements.

Therefore, for embodiment G, it is disclosed a device comprising of,

• • thirty off (Qty 30) exterior segment element 9-41, as shown in FIG. 34, comprised of part 10-41. This part has essentially the same geometry as that of part 3-5a shown in FIG. 12.
  • twenty off (Qty 20) exterior segment element 9-43, as shown in FIG. 35, comprising parts 10-43a & 10-43b. The realised parts combine to create a triangular shape with essentially the same features as part 3-1 shown in FIG. 07.
  • and one off (Qty 1) spherical centre element 10-45 identical to item 6-14 shown in FIG. 24.

Embodiment G may also be realised with restraining features at the poles by the incorporation of detail 3-5b to detail 10-41 and the introduction of centre elements 2-6 to recreate a similar arrangement as that disclosed in embodiment A.

The design for the mechanical realisation of Embodiments O thru Q will realise a number of detail parts similar in shape and quantity to those realised in paragraph 4.5.17 with only the exterior surface differing in detail.

Embodiments H and R thru T.

In Embodiment H, it is disclosed a mechanical device comprising of interlocking components defined by the application of a unique geometry solution whereas a three dimensional shape is divided into one-hundred-and-sixty-two exterior segment elements by swept conic sections to form a recurring pattern of four distinct exterior segment element shapes to the exterior surface.

The exterior segment elements in Embodiment H are allowed to form groupings of fifty-four segments which can be manipulated independently of the remaining segments through one-hundred and twenty degree steps around any of ten distinct axes denoted M, N, Q, R, S, T, U, V, X & Y defined by defined by joining the twenty opposite vertices of a Dodecahedron thus allowing the device to assume a very high number of configurations.

Said Geometry from Paragraph 4.6.1 is as shown in FIGS. 41 & 42. whereas the shapes of exterior segment elements 11-51, 11-53, 11-55 & 11-57 have been developed using said geometrical rules.

The resultant contacting faces of the exterior segment elements defined by the application of said geometry solution from paragraph 4.6.1 & 4.6.2 creates a plurality of rigidly defined trajectories for all exterior segment elements with all exterior segment elements being constrained to travel within said trajectories which is unique to, and characteristic of, this invention.

In any embodiment of the device the external appearance of the device is keyed so that the unique identity of each external segment can be determined and related to the global reference frame thus realising a puzzle, which can be regarded as solved if the segments are positioned in a desirable rather than a undesirable configuration.

In Embodiment H, this has been realised by sculpting and printing the exterior of the device with recurring graphic artwork whereas each exterior segment element carries enough information to differentiate it from the others.

Realisation of artwork for Embodiment H to be carried out in accordance with the principles shown in paragraphs 4.2.7, 4.3.7, 4.4.7 & 4.5.7.

In a further development of the concept as disclosed in Embodiment R, the device has been finished into a smooth sphere for the affixation of stickers, paint, texturing, or other means of finishing said device with artwork, be it a view of the earth, moon, golf ball, football or indeed any popularly recognisable spherical object.

Realisation of Embodiment R to be carried out in accordance with the principles shown in paragraphs 4.2.9, 4.3.9, 4.4.9 & 4.5.9 whereas the intersection pattern from paragraph 4.6.1 is subtracted from a smooth sphere.

In the concept as disclosed in Embodiment S, the device has been sculpted into a regular figure for the affixation of stickers, paint, texturing, or other means of finishing said device with keying artwork.

Realisation of Embodiment S to be carried out in accordance with the principles demonstrated in paragraphs 4.2.11, 4.3.11, 4.4.11 & 4.5.11 whereas the intersection pattern from paragraph 4.6.1 is subtracted from a regular Dodecahedron.

In the concept as disclosed in Embodiment T, the device has been sculpted into a irregular figure for the affixation of stickers, paint, texturing, or other means of finishing said device with keying artwork, be it a view of a head, fruit, or indeed any popularly recognisable object.

Realisation of Embodiment T to be carried out in accordance with the principles demonstrated in paragraphs 4.2.13, 4.3.13, 4.4.13 & 4.5.13 whereas the intersection pattern from paragraph 4.5.1 is subtracted from an irregular solid.

Further to embodiments H and R thru T, the visible appearance of the device may be simplified by the omission of, occlusion of, and/or identical printing of one or more of the recurring exterior segment elements while still constraining the remaining segments to follow the trajectories described in paragraphs 4.6.1 & 4.6.2 thus realising a simpler device with a lesser number of configurations and therefore still within the scope of this invention.

In the Embodiments H and R thru T, the segments are held in position to realise a device by means of interlocking male tongues and receiving female slots. Restraining features are also provided at the poles of the axes as necessary in order to prevent lateral dislocations during use. In all embodiments these features selectively release and engage the exterior segment elements as various twists and turns performed by the user manipulate the segments through the defined trajectories.

For Embodiments H and R thru T, the features are interlocked in the principles established in accordance with paragraphs 4.2.16 & 4.3.16 with male and female interlock arrangement as shown in FIG. 43.

The design for the mechanical realisation of Embodiment H is envisioned as details realised in accordance with principles described in paragraphs 4.2.17 & 4.3.17.

Therefore, for embodiment H, it is disclosed a device comprising of,

• • thirty off (Qty 30) exterior segment element 11-51, as shown in FIG. 44. The realised part is essentially the same geometry as that of part 3-5a shown in FIG. 12.
  • sixty off (Qty 60) exterior segment element 11-53, as shown in FIG. 45. The realised part is similar to part 3-2 shown in FIG. 08. Male to female features have been reversed in this instance.
  • twelve off (Qty 12) exterior segment element 11-55, as shown in FIG. 46. The realised part is essentially a pentagonal variation of part 3-1 shown in FIG. 07.
  • sixty off (Qty 60) exterior segment element 11-57, as shown in FIG. 37. The realised part is similar to part 3-2 shown in FIG. 08.
  • and one off (Qty 1) spherical centre element 6-14 shown in FIG. 24.

Embodiment H may also be realised with restraining features at the poles by the incorporation of detail 3-5b to detail 11-55 and the introduction of centre elements 2-6b to recreate a similar arrangement as that disclosed in embodiment A.

The design for the mechanical realisation of Embodiments L thru N will realise a number of detail parts similar in shape and quantity to those realised in paragraph 4.6.17 with only the exterior surface differing in detail.

The design for the mechanical realisation of Preferred Embodiments R thru T will realise a number of detail parts similar in shape and quantity to those realised in paragraph 4.6.17 with only the exterior surface differing in detail.

In Embodiment Z, the invention is realised as an interactive electronic simulation comprising of a two-dimensional visual representation of any of the three-dimensional devices described in Embodiments A thru T and a means of manipulating said image via a pointing device or other input whereas the visualisation can be made to simulate the motion of virtual components following trajectories in a manner identical to those already disclosed herein.

Said electronic simulation includes an electronic dataset definition of the components which can be readily disclosed for examination, data is in the Computer Aided Design (CAD) UGS Solid Edge format thus defining the assembly condition of various embodiments and has also been exported to *.IGS, *.STL and *.STP formats to support the claim that it is understood by the author how to create an electronic simulation of said device, that a simulation has in fact been created using existing CAD software, and that the concept is in development with a view to the creation of a marketable product.

All figures referenced herein this document were derived from the said digital datasets in paragraph 4.8 which were supplied on compact disc with the provisional patent application made in the USA (Reference 60/918,712) from which priority is claimed herein.

DRAWINGS

FIG. 01 Emb. A, Geometry Definition.

FIG. 02 Emb. A, Development of Geometry to definition of Parts.

FIG. 03 Emb. A, Section thru' mechanical realisation, section “FIG. 03”.

FIG. 04 Emb. A, Section thru' mechanical realisation, section “FIG. 04”.

FIG. 05 Emb. A, Exploded assembly showing details.

FIG. 06 Emb. A, Pictorial view of central element, Item 2-6.

FIG. 07 Emb. A, Pictorial view of exterior segment element, Item 3-1.

FIG. 08 Emb. A, Pictorial view of exterior segment element, Item 3-2.

FIG. 09 Emb. A, Pictorial view of exterior segment element, Item 3-3a.

FIG. 10 Emb. A, Pictorial view of exterior segment element, Item 3-3b.

FIG. 11 Emb. A, Pictorial view of exterior segment element, Item 3-4.

FIG. 12 Emb A, Pictorial view of exterior segment element, Item 3-5a.

FIG. 13 Emb. A, Pictorial view of exterior segment element, Item 3-5b.

FIG. 14 Emb. A, Pictorial view of central element, Item 3-6a.

FIG. 15 Emb. A, Pictorial view of central element, interlocking disc, Item 3-6b.

FIG. 16 Emb. E, Geometry Definition.

FIG. 17 Emb: E, Development of Geometry to definition of Parts.

FIG. 18 Emb. E, Section thru' mechanical realisation, from FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 Emb. E, Exploded assembly showing details.

FIG. 20 Emb. E, Pictorial view of exterior segment element, Item 6-11.

FIG. 21 Emb. E, Pictorial view of exterior segment element, Item 6-12.

FIG. 22 Emb. E, Pictorial view of exterior segment element, Item 6-13a.

FIG. 23 Emb. E, Pictorial view of exterior segment element, Item 6-13b.

FIG. 24 Emb. E, Pictorial view of central element, Item 6-14.

FIG. 25 Emb. F, Geometry Definition.

FIG. 26 Emb. F, Geometry Definition, polar view on arrow “FIG. 26”.

FIG. 27 Emb. F, Detail Enlargement of “FIG. 26” to show realisation of interlocking features.

FIG. 28 Emb. F, Geometry of Exterior Segment 7-31 From Detail Enlargement.

FIG. 29 Emb. F, Geometry of Exterior Segment 7-33 From Detail Enlargement.

FIG. 30 Emb. F, Geometry of Exterior Segment 7-35 From Detail Enlargement.

FIG. 31 Emb. G, Geometry Definition.

FIG. 32 Emb. G, Geometry Definition, polar view on arrow “FIG. 32”.

FIG. 33 Emb. G, Detail Enlargement of “FIG. 32” to show realisation of interlocking features.

FIG. 34 Emb. G, Geometry of Exterior Segment 8-41 From Detail Enlargement.

FIG. 35 Emb. G, Geometry of Exterior Segment 8-43 From Detail Enlargement.

FIG. 36 Emb. G, Development of Geometry to definition of Parts.

FIG. 37 Emb. G, Pictorial View of Parts.

FIG. 38 Emb. G, Assembly of Items 10-41, 10-43a & 10-43b.

FIG. 39 Emb. G, Section “FIG. 39” Assembly of Items 10-41, 10-43a, 10-43b spherical central element 10-45.

FIG. 40 Emb. G, End View on “FIG. 40”, Assembly of Items 10-41, 10-43a & 10-43b.

FIG. 41 Emb. H, Geometry Definition.

FIG. 42 Emb. H, Geometry Definition, polar view on arrow “FIG. 42”.

FIG. 43 Emb. H, Detail Enlargement of “FIG. 42” to show realisation of interlocking features.

FIG. 44 Emb. H, Geometry of Exterior Segment 11-51 From Detail Enlargement.

FIG. 45 Emb. H, Geometry of Exterior Segment 11-53 From Detail Enlargement.

FIG. 46 Emb. H, Geometry of Exterior Segment 11-55 From Detail Enlargement.

FIG. 47 Emb. H, Geometry of Exterior Segment 11-57 From Detail Enlargement.

FIG. 48 Emb. B, Pictorial View, Smooth Exterior.

FIG. 49 Emb. C, Pictorial View, Regular Figure.

FIG. 50 Emb. C, View on planar face, Regular Figure.

FIG. 51 Emb. D, Pictorial View, Irregular Figure.

FIG. 52 Emb. I, Pictorial View, Smooth Exterior.

FIG. 53 Emb. J, Pictorial View, Regular Figure.

FIG. 54 Emb. J, View on planar face, Regular Figure.

FIG. 55 Emb. K, Pictorial View, Irregular Figure.

FIG. 56 Emb. P, Pictorial View, Regular Figure.

Also the present invention has been shown in its preferred and most practical embodiments but it is recognised that departures may be made therefrom within the scope of the invention which is not limited to the details disclosed herein but is to be accorded the full scope of the claims, embracing equivalent devices and apparatus.

Claims

1. a three dimensional combination puzzle comprising a plurality of outer bodies having an inner face moveable over a real or imagined spherical inner core, either two, three, four or five adjoining surfaces and an outer surface,said adjoining surfaces defined by the intersection of swept conic faces generated around either four, six or ten axes defined by joining opposite vertices of regular polyhedra intersecting at the centre of the real or imagined inner core to create recurring instances of two, three, four or five distinct shapes,means associated with said adjoining surfaces releasably maintaining said outer bodies in various relationships around real or imagined inner core, and enabling said outer bodies to be rotated in groups about said core,said outer surfaces forming a recognisable three dimensional shape and/or exterior pattern.

2. a three dimensional combination puzzle according to claim 1 whereas a simplified version is realised by the occlusion of one or more of the said plurality of distinct outer shapes and/or by the reduction in the number of outer bodies by omission.

3. a three dimensional combination puzzle according to claim 1 or 2 realised via electronic simulation.