10 Penny Puzzle for Laser Cutting

thingiverse

The 10-Penny Puzzle is a classic problem that has puzzled engineers and designers for centuries. The challenge lies in creating a laser-cut design that can hold together ten pennies, yet still allow them to be easily removed one by one. To solve this puzzle, we must first understand the principles of friction and tension. Friction is what keeps objects from sliding or rolling, while tension is the force that pulls objects towards each other. In order to create a laser-cut design that holds ten pennies in place, we need to find a way to balance these two forces. One possible solution is to use a combination of curves and angles to create a puzzle piece that applies even pressure to all ten pennies. This can be achieved by cutting out a series of interlocking curves that fit together like a jigsaw puzzle. Another approach is to use a laser-cut design with multiple layers. By creating a stack of thin pieces, each one slightly offset from the last, we can create a stable structure that holds the pennies in place. This design would require careful planning and precision cutting, but it could be an effective solution. Regardless of which approach we choose, the key to solving the 10-Penny Puzzle is to find a balance between friction and tension. By carefully designing our laser-cut pieces, we can create a puzzle that challenges engineers and designers while also providing a fun and educational experience for anyone who tries to solve it.