6 Piece Interlocking Cubic Puzzle

thingiverse

This clever challenge is a 4x4x4 interlocking cube, built from six distinct parts. The result is a puzzle that can only be assembled in one unique sequence and will remain intact even when moved around. Once the pieces are connected, all of them become stationary except for the final piece in the sequence, making it the first to be removed when disassembling the puzzle. Our model showcases several key mathematical concepts, including sequences, proof by exhaustion, problem-solving skills, and various geometric shapes. As mentioned previously, interlocking cubes have only one possible assembly sequence due to their design. The process of assembling these puzzles requires precise movements and manipulations of the pieces in order for the cube to take shape. Creating new types of interlocking puzzles is a relatively popular activity within the puzzle community, but designing a fresh concept can be quite challenging. Often, creating a new interlocking puzzle involves using exhaustion, and these puzzles tend to be larger than smaller ones that have already been created. Both creating and solving these puzzles demand the use of logic and problem-solving skills. While both tasks are difficult, having an understanding of how interlocking pieces fit together can make assembly more apparent. Each time a new cube is designed, a unique geometric shape is formed. This uniqueness arises from the fact that all the pieces are different and the sequence for assembly employs distinct techniques. Print Settings Printer Brand: SeeMeCNC Printer: Rostock MAX v2 Notes: These puzzle pieces have a tendency to jump off the bed if it's not warm enough or melt if it's too hot. We found that 87 degrees is a suitable middle ground, and with sufficient hairspray, the pieces printed perfectly fine. To prevent warping on the final tower, slow down the printer to around 30% speed. We also printed the puzzles in the photos using 150% scaling. How I Designed This This cube was based on Thingiverse user richgain's model "Printable Interlocking Puzzle." We used his six-piece puzzle design and created our version with Rhino by generating rectangular prisms and applying the Boolean Union function. After printing a test run, we quickly realized that our initial design didn't account for the necessary space between each piece to fit together properly. To address this issue, adjustments were made to our design by creating larger gaps in each puzzle piece using the Wire Cut function to shave 1-2 millimeters off every gap on each piece.