Manipulation puzzle
OwnerMarvin H. Allisoninventor
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A manipulation puzzle consisting of rigid or semi-rigid components is disclosed. The puzzle is solved by manipulating the components through a specific sequence of movements, in predetermined order, in accordance with a code employed in the construction of the puzzle. Various interacting components are interchangeable, thereby providing for the construction of "families" of puzzles. The puzzle comprises a plurality of ring members disposed to form a cylinder about a plurality of longitudinal slide members forming an interior cylinder on a common axis with the ring members. The solution is programmed into the elements by a series of pegs on one set of members, and a cooperative set of grooves on the other set of members.
Claims17
A puzzle having an assembled configuration and a disassembled configuration comprising:
- a first plurality of members in which each member is movable relative to each other member and in which each member has face having a pattern thereon;
- at least one other member having a face having a pattern thereon;
- said patterns comprising variations in the dimension of said members and other members perpendicular to said faces;
- said first plurality of members being configured to form a first surface comprising the faces of each member, said first surface having a variable pattern thereon which is varied by relative movement of said members of said first plurality;
- said at least one other member being configured to form a second surface comprising the faces of each said other member;
- said first surface and said second surface being in closely spaced mutually facing relation and said first plurality of members being maintained in assembled relationship with each other and with said at least one other member solely by the interaction of said surfaces, said variable pattern interacting with said pattern on said face of said at least one other member to define a solution path for said puzzle, said solution path comprising an ordered sequence of movement of said first plurality of members and said at least one other member.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.