Five screw-puzzles by George Hart

thingiverse

These five math puzzles challenge users to manipulate geometric transformations like translation and rotation. They inspire fun applications of math while progressively increasing in difficulty, encouraging exploration of new problems. The set prompts problem-solving strategies and rewards with a satisfying "Aha!" moment upon solving the last puzzle. The first puzzle involves cutting a bagel into two parts, leading users to try and replicate the shape. Next, the four-part torus can be solved by pairing pieces or individually; mastery allows real-life replication. The six-part torus challenges advanced students to prove that pieces can be assembled in any order. The four-part cube assembles without force, solvable via incremental addition or divide-and-conquer approach. Lastly, the two-part tetrahedron, although identical pieces, is the most challenging - taking up to 30 minutes to solve. These puzzles can be 3D printed with a slight setback for imperfections, and sanding may be required for rough patches. The first two puzzles are easy to separate, while the third requires a small screwdriver. For the final puzzle, build twice in different colors for ease of assembly.