Three-dimensional edge-matching puzzle
A three-dimensional edge-matching puzzle is a type of edge-matching puzzle or tiling puzzle involving tiling a three-dimensional area with (typically regular) polygonal pieces whose edges are distinguished with colors or patterns, in such a way that the edges of adjacent pieces match. Edge-matching puzzles are known to be NP-complete, and capable of conversion to and from equivalent jigsaw puzzles and polyomino packing puzzle.[1]
Three-dimensional edge-matching puzzles are not currently under direct U.S. patent protection, since the 1892 patent by E. L. Thurston has expired.[2]
Current examples of commercial three-dimensional edge-matching puzzles include the Dodek Duo, The Enigma, Mental Misery,[3] and Kadon Enterprises' range of three-dimensional edge-matching puzzles.[4]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ Erik D. Demaine, Martin L. Demaine. "Jigsaw Puzzles, Edge Matching, and Polyomino Packing: Connections and Complexity" (PDF). Retrieved 2007-08-12.
- ^ "Rob's puzzle page: Edge Matching". Retrieved 2007-08-12.
- ^ "Rob's puzzle page: Pattern Puzzles". Retrieved 2009-06-22.
- ^ "Kadon Enterprises, More About Edgematching". Retrieved 2009-06-22.
External links
[edit]- Erich's 3-D Matching Puzzles
- Color- and Edge-Matching Polygons by Peter Esser
- Rob's puzzle page by Rob Stegmann
- More about edgematching