U.S. patent application number 13/634004 was filed with the patent office on 2013-03-14 for cube-sherman snake.
This patent application is currently assigned to CUBE-SHERMAN IP LIMITED. The applicant listed for this patent is Gideon Cube-Sherman. Invention is credited to Gideon Cube-Sherman.
Application Number | 20130062828 13/634004 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42261467 |
Filed Date | 2013-03-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130062828 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Cube-Sherman; Gideon |
March 14, 2013 |
CUBE-SHERMAN SNAKE
Abstract
An apparatus comprising: a plurality of sub-units; and one or
more connecting members for connecting the plurality of sub-units
together in a chain, wherein the plurality of sub-units is held
together in the chain by the one or more connecting members
disposed between the sub-units, wherein each sub-unit comprises at
least one groove through which the connecting member, or one of the
connecting members, is movable to allow adjacent sub-units to be
rotated around at least one rotational axis relative to each other
by a user, and wherein the apparatus further comprises a locking
mechanism to lock adjacent sub-units together resisting rotation
and resisting disengagement.
Inventors: |
Cube-Sherman; Gideon;
(London, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Cube-Sherman; Gideon |
London |
|
GB |
|
|
Assignee: |
CUBE-SHERMAN IP LIMITED
London
GB
|
Family ID: |
42261467 |
Appl. No.: |
13/634004 |
Filed: |
March 11, 2011 |
PCT Filed: |
March 11, 2011 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2011/053732 |
371 Date: |
November 7, 2012 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
273/153S |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63F 2009/0888 20130101;
A63F 9/0876 20130101; A63F 9/088 20130101; A63H 33/102
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
273/153.S |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/06 20060101
A63F009/06 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 12, 2010 |
GB |
1004125.9 |
Claims
1. An apparatus comprising: a plurality of sub-units; and one or
more connecting members for connecting the plurality of sub-units
together in a chain, wherein the plurality of sub-units is held
together in the chain by the one or more connecting members
disposed between the sub-units, wherein each sub-unit comprises at
least one groove through which the connecting member, or one of the
connecting members, is movable to allow adjacent sub-units to be
rotated around at least one rotational axis relative to each other
by a user, and wherein the apparatus further comprises a locking
mechanism configured to lock adjacent sub-units together, thereby
resisting rotation of adjacent sub-units and resisting
disengagement of adjacent sub-units.
2. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the one or more
connecting members comprises a flexible elongate member.
3. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the flexible elongate
member is elastic.
4. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein each sub-unit
comprises a hole through which the flexible elongate member
extends, the flexible elongate member extending though a plurality
of the sub-units thereby holding the plurality of sub-units
together.
5. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of
connecting members is provided, each connecting adjacent sub-units
together.
6. An apparatus according to claim 1, the locking mechanism being
constructed wherein each sub-unit comprises at least one projection
and/or at least one recess which is complementary to the at least
one projection whereby at least one projection of a sub-unit is
received in at least one recess of an adjacent sub-units to lock
adjacent sub-units together resisting rotation and
disengagement.
7. An apparatus according to claim 6, wherein each sub-unit
comprises a plurality of recesses and/or a plurality of
projections.
8. An apparatus according to claim 6, wherein alternating sub-units
in the chain comprise only recesses or only projections.
9. An apparatus according to claim 6, wherein each sub-unit in the
chain comprises both at least one recess and at least one
projection.
10. An apparatus according to claim 9, wherein each sub-unit
comprises at least one recess in one of its faces and at least one
projection on each of its other faces.
11. An apparatus according to claim 9, wherein each sub-unit
comprises at least one projection on one of its faces and at least
one recess in each of its other faces.
12. An apparatus according to claim 1, the locking mechanism being
constructed wherein adjacent sub-units comprise projections and a
locking member is disposed between adjacent sub-units, the locking
member having recesses which are complementary to the projections
whereby the projections of the adjacent sub-unit are received in
the recesses of the locking member to lock the adjacent sub-units
together resisting rotation and disengagement.
13. An apparatus according to claim 1, the locking mechanism being
constructed wherein adjacent sub-units comprise recesses and a
locking member is disposed between adjacent sub-units, the locking
member having projections which are complementary to the recesses
whereby the projections of the locking member are received in the
recesses of the adjacent sub-units to lock the adjacent sub-units
together resisting rotation and disengagement.
14. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the locking
mechanism comprises one or more of a snap-fit connection between
adjacent sub-units, a magnetic locking mechanism, an
electromagnetic locking mechanism, a shape memory alloy locking
mechanism, a shape memory polymer locking mechanism, a muscle wire
locking mechanism, a velcro-type locking mechanism, a temporary
adhesive locking mechanism, one or more screws, one or more pins,
one or more wedges, one or more bolts, or one or more nuts.
15. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each sub-unit
comprises two grooves whereby adjacent sub-units can be rotated
around three rotational axes relative to each other.
16. An apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the two grooves are
perpendicular to each other whereby adjacent sub-units can be
rotated around three perpendicular rotational axes relative to each
other.
17. An apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the two grooves are
provided on different faces of each sub-unit.
18. An apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the two grooves are
provided on the same face of each sub-unit.
19. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each sub-unit is
cubic, cuboid, tetrahedral, spherical, pyramidal, a prism,
polyhedral, rhomboid, elongate, a 3-D Swiss Cross,
rhombicuboctahedral, a tesseract, or a hypercube.
20. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein adjacent sub-units
are configured to be rotatable around more than three rotational
axes relative to each other.
21. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein one or more of the
sub-units is hollow.
22. A kit comprising a plurality of sub-units and one or more
connecting members configured to construct an apparatus according
to claim 1.
Description
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus which can be
manipulated into different configurations. The apparatus comprises
a plurality of sub-units connected and held together by one or more
connecting members. The sub-units may be rotated so as to be in
different relative orientations while remaining in the same
physical locations. Furthermore, the sub-units may be pulled apart
and moved so as to be in different physical locations relative to
each other.
[0002] The present inventor has realized that it would be desirable
to create a medium for constructing spatial constructions,
sculptural assemblages which can combine aesthetic appeal and fun.
The present inventor has also realized that such a combination of
aesthetics and play will have a particular appeal to children,
encouraging them to experiment with sculpture and architectonics to
increase visual and spatial awareness, manual dexterity, and
logical and creative thinking.
[0003] Certain embodiments of the present invention may provide a
puzzle in a similar manner to the well known Rubik's Cube.TM..
However, applications for the present invention are numerous. For
example, embodiments of the present invention may be used to create
3-dimensional line drawings, 3-dimensional canvases or be used to
construct poems or texts in 3-dimensions. Certain embodiments may
also provide a glow lamp or glow stick which can be manipulated
into different configurations. Certain embodiments may also be used
to build structures such as reconfigurable modular buildings for
use in space, underwater, on the moon, on earth and other planets
and to form reconfigurable cities of the future. Other embodiments
may be utilised to form computing, entertainment and
telecommunication devices which may be reconfigured by the
user.
[0004] Many other applications have been envisaged, some of which
are discussed in more detail later in this specification.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0005] It is already known to provide an apparatus in the form of a
puzzle which comprises a plurality of sub-units which can be
manipulated relative to each other. Such apparatus may comprise a
target structure to be achieved by a user. The well known Rubik's
Cube.TM. has already been mentioned as an example of such a puzzle.
A standard Rubik's Cube.TM. comprises twenty six cube shaped
sub-units arranged into a cube shaped structure, each edge of which
comprises three sub-units and each face of which comprises nine
sub-units. Individual sub-units cannot be rotated on their own.
Rather, in order to manipulate the sub-units, a face of the cube is
rotated in order to move the sub-units in that face/layer. The
central sub-unit of each face of the cube remains in a fixed
position, merely rotating about its central axis.
[0006] Variants of the Rubik's Cube.TM. are also known which
comprise sub-units having a non-cubic shape. For example, a Rubik's
Twist.TM. comprises wedge/prism shaped sub-units which are
individually rotatable relative to each other in order to form
different shapes as illustrated in FIG. 1. In such arrangements,
the sub-units can be rotated relative to each other but adjacent
sub-units can only be rotated around a single axis with the
opposing faces of adjacent sub-units remaining in contact.
[0007] A known alternative to Rubik's arrangements discussed above
comprises a plurality of cube shaped sub-units connected together
by a flexible elongate elastic member. The flexible elongate
elastic member is fixedly attached to end members of the plurality
of cube shaped sub-units and extends through holes provided in the
sub-units disposed between the end members. The cube shaped
sub-units can be rotated relative to each other but, as with the
previously described Rubik's Snake type arrangement, the opposing
faces of adjacent sub-units do not change. That is, adjacent
sub-units can be rotated relative to each other about a
longitudinal axis of the flexible elongate elastic member passing
between adjacent sub-units but cannot be moved relative to each
other such that one of the blocks moves from one face to another
face of its adjacent sub-unit.
[0008] An arrangement comprising a plurality of cube shaped blocks
with a flexible elongate elastic member is illustrated in FIG. 2.
The arrangement comprises twenty seven cube shaped sub-units
connected by an elastic band (not visible in FIG. 2). The cube
shaped sub-units are provided with holes through which the elastic
band passes, the elastic band being fixedly attached to the
end-members so as to hold the cube shaped sub-units together. The
twenty seven cube shaped sub-units are provided in seventeen groups
with two or three sub-units per group. The aim of the puzzle is to
arrange the chain of sub-units to form a 3.times.3.times.3 cube as
shown in the Figure.
[0009] One problem with the apparatus illustrated in FIG. 2 and
described above is that adjacent cubes cannot be re-orientated such
that different faces oppose each other. As such, there are a
limited number of configurations in which the plurality of cubes
can be disposed. For example, in the arrangement illustrated in
FIG. 2 the plurality of cubes cannot be re-arranged so as to be in
a completely linear configuration. Rather, the cubes have been
joined together by the elastic band in a specific configuration
which allows the plurality of blocks to be manipulated into a
3.times.3.times.3 cube without requiring a change in the
face-to-face relationship of adjacent blocks.
[0010] The aforementioned problem has been solved in accordance
with another prior art arrangement, the Naef Cublex.TM. illustrated
in FIG. 3a. In the apparatus illustrated in FIG. 3a, two grooves
have been cut into each sub-unit cube in opposing faces at right
angles to each other. Such a sub-unit is illustrated in more detail
in FIG. 3b. The grooves allow the elastic band to pass therethrough
such that a sub-unit cube can be moved relative to its adjacent
partner in such a manner that a different face opposes its adjacent
partner after movement. The elasticity of the elastic band allows a
user to pull two adjacent sub-units apart so that they can be
rearranged to have different opposing faces. The elasticity of the
elastic band then pulls the blocks back together under a
compressive force to hold the blocks in the new configuration. This
arrangement thus allows much more freedom of motion between
adjacent sub-units. With the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 2,
adjacent blocks can only be rotated around one axis relative to
each other. In contrast, the arrangement illustrated in FIGS. 3a
and 3b allows adjacent blocks to be moved in all three
perpendicular rotational axes relative to each other. As such, the
sub-units can be re-arranged so as to form a range of shapes or
configurations. However, the Naef Cublex.TM. only comprises eight
sub-unit cubes and is therefore still limited in the number
possible configurations which can be achieved. More sub-unit cubes
could be added. However, configurations then begin to fall apart
under the weight of the apparatus as a whole.
[0011] Similar problems are apparent from educational toys and
puzzles disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,525,089 and U.S. Pat. No.
3,514,893. In both of these puzzles it has been recognised that
rotation of adjacent subunits can be a problem, and means to
prevent rotation of adjacent subunits relative to one another have
been included. However, these configurations still begin to fall
apart under the weight of the apparatus as a whole, such that
semi-permanent and/or permanent structures are not possible.
[0012] One object of certain embodiments of the present invention
is to provide an apparatus which is an improvement over the
aforementioned arrangements. Another object of certain embodiments
of the present invention is to adapt the aforementioned prior art
arrangements such that they are capable of forming semi-permanent
or permanent structures. This will allow for a much wider range of
applications for such apparatus.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0013] The present inventor has recognised that the aforementioned
arrangement as illustrated in FIGS. 3a and 3b provides good freedom
of movement such that the sub-units can be re-arranged so as to
form a range of three-dimensional shapes. However, the arrangement
has a drawback that when a desired shape is formed by manipulation
and re-arrangement of the sub-units, the sub-units are not locked
in this shape. The sub-units are held in position to a certain
extent by the compressive force applied to them by the elongate
flexible elastic member which is under tension.
[0014] A further problem with the prior art arrangements is that as
a user tries to manipulate the sub-units in order to achieve a
desired shape, movement of one sub-unit can cause movement of other
sub-units in the arrangement, which is frustrating and can lead to
difficulties in achieving the desired shape. Again, this problem
can be alleviated to some extent by adjusting the tension of the
elastic biasing member. However, the tension must still be
sufficiently low to allow manipulation of the sub-units. As such,
there is always an unsatisfactory compromise between providing a
sufficiently high tension in the elastic biasing member to hold the
sub-units together in a desired configuration, while also providing
a sufficiently low tension in the elastic biasing member to allow
manipulation of the sub-units into a desired shape in the first
place.
[0015] When, this compressive force is aided by the anti-rotation
systems disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,525,089 and U.S. Pat. No.
3,514,893 this may help to a certain degree, but rotation is not
the only problem faced when semi-permanent and/or permanent
structures are desired. In such structures, disengagement of
adjacent subunits can lead to collapse of the structure even where
rotation is prevented.
[0016] In light of the above problems, it is evident that the prior
art arrangements are not ideally suited for forming semi-permanent
structures which can be at least temporarily fixed/locked in a
desired configuration. A desired configuration may be achieved
using the prior art arrangements. However, if a user or a passer-by
knocks the configuration then the sub-units can readily rotate
relative to each other, or disengage, so as to move out of the
desired configuration. As such, the apparatus must be periodically
re-adjusted if the desired configuration is to be achieved and
maintained.
[0017] In circumstances when it is desired to create a
configuration with the apparatus which then has some further use,
for example as a sculpture, building structure, model, furniture,
lamp, jewellery, glow stick, or other accessory, then the present
inventor has realised that it would be desirable to provide an
apparatus which can be effectively locked into a desired
configuration. As such, if a user or a passer-by knocks the
configuration then the sub-units cannot readily rotate relative to
each other or disengage to move out of the desired
configuration.
[0018] The present inventor has solved these problems in accordance
with a first aspect of the present invention by providing an
apparatus comprising: a plurality of sub-units; and one or more
connecting members for connecting the plurality of sub-units
together in a chain, wherein the plurality of sub-units is held
together in the chain by the one or more connecting members
disposed between the sub-units, wherein each sub-unit comprises at
least one groove through which the connecting member, or one of the
connecting members, is movable to allow adjacent sub-units to be
rotated around at least one rotational axis relative to each other
by a user, and wherein the apparatus further comprises a locking
mechanism to lock adjacent sub-units together resisting rotation,
and resisting disengagement.
[0019] Providing a groove in a sub-unit allows an associated
connecting member to be orientated such that it passes through
different faces of the sub-unit in a manner similar to that
described in the background section. As such, adjacent sub-units
can be rotated relative to each other such that different faces of
adjacent sub-units abut each other. Each groove preferably extends
across the entire width of a face of its sub-unit and has a depth
of approximately one half the depth of the sub-unit, more
precisely, one half the depth of the sub-unit plus the radius of
the connecting member.
[0020] In contrast with the prior art arrangements described above,
the apparatus of the present invention is provided with a locking
mechanism to lock adjacent sub-units together resisting rotation
and disengagement. It is preferred that the locking mechanism is
automatically released when the sub-units are pulled apart such
that adjacent sub-units can be rotated relative to each other. The
locking mechanism may then re-engage when the sub-units are
released to lock adjacent sub-units together to resist further
rotation and disengagement. It is to be noted that the sub-units
remain connected by the one or more connecting members when in a
pulled-apart configuration.
[0021] The one or more connecting members may comprise a flexible
elongate biasing member. The plurality of sub-units may be held
together in the chain by the flexible elongate biasing member under
tension. It is to be noted that while such a flexible elongate
biasing member holds the sub-units together under tension it does
not function as a locking mechanism as the sub-units can still be
freely rotated around a longitudinal axis of the flexible elongate
biasing mechanism. The locking mechanism of the present invention
resists such rotation and resists disengagement, when the sub-units
are not in a pulled-apart configuration.
[0022] In the present context, the term `resist disengagement`
means that the subunits may not be separated under their own
weight, or under the weight of the structure as a whole, when in
any configuration. The user must actively work to disengage the
sub-units, such that the structure is stable when locked in a
configuration. The locking mechanism may comprise one or more
engagement means present on a sub-unit and adapted to engage with
an engagement means on an adjacent sub-unit. This may be, for
example, in the form of a projections and an adjacent recess or
hole adapted to receive the one or more projections (male/female
engagement means), or some other means such as a snap-fit
mechanism. This will be described in more detail below. Whilst the
user would need to work to disengage the sub-units, the engagement
means may be designed such that the user does not need to work to
engage the sub-units, or alternatively the design may require the
user to put in work to facilitate engagement (such as by guiding
and/or pushing).
[0023] The flexible elongate biasing member may not be inherently
elastic along its entire length but may have one or more elastic
portions of elastic members to provide a biasing force. For
example, the flexible elongate biasing member may comprise an
inelastic string/wire connected to one or more springs which
provide the biasing force. The springs may be located in end member
sub-units of the chain or in one or more intermediate
sub-units.
[0024] Other embodiments may utilize an inelastic connecting member
or a plurality of inelastic connecting members functioning without
any springs or tensioning mechanism. Such an arrangement would rely
solely on interference or other locking between the sub-units to
resist disengagement and to maintain semi-permanent
configurations.
[0025] The connecting member(s) may have the function of firstly
preventing the sub-units from becoming dispersed or losing their
sequence, and secondly ensuring that only a limited number of
sub-units is `in play` (i.e. are disengaged) at any one time.
[0026] Each sub-unit may comprise a hole through which the flexible
elongate biasing member extends, the flexible elongate biasing
member extending though a plurality of the sub-units and connected
to end members of the plurality of sub-units under tension thereby
holding the plurality of sub-units together in compression.
[0027] Alternatively, a plurality of connecting members may be
provided, each connecting adjacent sub-units together.
[0028] The locking mechanism may be constructed wherein each
sub-unit comprises at least one projection and/or at least one
recess which is complementary to the at least one projection
whereby at least one projection of a sub-unit is received in at
least one recess of an adjacent sub-unit to lock adjacent sub-units
together resisting rotation.
[0029] According to the invention, the projections and recesses are
configured to hold adjacent sub-units together whilst they are in
the engaged state as well as resist rotation. For example, the
projections may fit tightly into the complementary recesses such
that the projections are held or gripped by the complementary
recesses. The projections may completely fill the recesses to form
a vacuum seal to resist disengagement. Such interference between
the projections and recesses will complement an elastic biasing
member in resisting the disengagement of the sub-units.
[0030] Each sub-unit may comprise a plurality of recesses and/or a
plurality of projections. Alternating sub-units in the chain may
comprise only recesses or only projections. Alternatively, each
sub-unit in the chain may comprise both at least one recess and at
least one projection. For example, each sub-unit may comprise at
least one recess in one of its faces and at least one projection on
each of its other faces. Alternatively, each sub-unit may comprise
at least one projection on one of its faces and at least one recess
in each of its other faces. Other patterns of projections and
recesses may also be provided.
[0031] As an alternative to the aforementioned locking mechanisms,
the locking mechanism can be constructed wherein adjacent sub-units
comprise projections and a separate locking member is disposed
between adjacent sub-units, the locking member having recesses
which are complementary to the projections whereby the projections
of the adjacent sub-units are received in the recesses of the
locking member to lock the adjacent sub-units together resisting
rotation and resisting disengagement.
[0032] Alternatively still, the locking mechanism can be
constructed wherein adjacent sub-units comprise recesses and a
separate locking member is disposed between adjacent sub-units, the
locking member having projections which are complementary to the
recesses whereby the projections of the locking member are received
in the recesses of the adjacent sub-units to lock the adjacent
sub-units together resisting rotation and resisting
disengagement.
[0033] Yet another possibility would be to have a separate locking
member which includes at least one recess and at least one
projection which cooperate with complimentary projections and
recesses on adjacent sub-units to lock the adjacent sub-units
together resisting rotation and resisting disengagement.
[0034] As an alternative, or in addition to the aforementioned
locking mechanism arrangements, the locking mechanism may comprise
one or more of a snap-fit connection between adjacent sub-units, a
magnetic locking mechanism (e.g. using magnets or magnetic pins),
an electromagnetic locking mechanism, a shape memory alloy locking
mechanism, a shape memory polymer locking mechanism, a muscle wire
locking mechanism, a velcro-type locking mechanism, and a temporary
adhesive locking mechanism.
[0035] The locking mechanism may alternatively or additionally
comprise a semi-permanent or permanent fixing mechanism. For
example, once the apparatus has been configured into a design which
the user wishes to keep, glue, fastening screws, or other permanent
fixing mechanism can be used to permanently fix the apparatus in a
desired configuration.
[0036] Preferably, adjacent sub-units are rotatable around at least
two rotational axes. The adjacent sub-units may be rotated by
moving the sub-units such that different faces of the sub-units
abut each other. The adjacent sub-units may also be rotated around
a longitudinal axis of the connecting member.
[0037] Each sub-unit may comprise two grooves whereby adjacent
sub-units can be rotated around three rotational axes relative to
each other. The two grooves may be perpendicular to each other
whereby adjacent sub-units can be rotated around three
perpendicular rotational axes relative to each other. The two
grooves may be provided on different faces of each sub-unit.
[0038] Alternatively, the two grooves may be provided on the same
face of each sub-unit. The grooves allow the flexible elongate
biasing member to be orientated such that it passes through
different faces of a sub-unit.
[0039] Each sub-unit may be cube shaped. However, it is envisaged
that other three dimensional shapes for the sub-units may be
utilised in accordance with certain embodiments of the present
invention. Thus, any platonic solid may be employed, and especially
any platonic solid with three rotational degrees of symmetry.
Icosahedra and rhombicuboctahedral are employed in some
embodiments.
[0040] The flexible elongate biasing member may be a simple piece
of elastic. Alternatively, it may any kind of elongate string-like
or wire-like material or composite structure which can function to
connect the plurality of sub-units together applying a compressive
elastic force to the sub-units to hold them under compression. The
elastic force should be weak enough such that the sub-units can be
pulled apart by a user to re-orientate the sub-units relative to
each other. The elastic force may be strong enough such that when
released, the flexible elongate biasing member pulls the sub-units
together into a locked arrangement with the one or more projections
from one sub-unit engaging with the one or more recesses in an
adjacent sub-unit.
[0041] One key principle of certain embodiments is that only one
(or at most two) of the connections between adjacent sub-units is
live/in-play/extended at any one time. The connection(s)/biasing
member(s) can be optimized to achieve this effect.
[0042] The sub-units may be made of a transparent or
semi-transparent material and a light source can be mounted in one
or more of the sub-units thereby providing a glow lamp which can be
manipulated into different configurations. One or more conducting
members may be provided which extend through the plurality of
sub-units and connect to the light source. The sub-units may
alternatively, or additionally, comprise a light emissive material
such as a fluorescent or phosphorous material to form a glow
stick.
[0043] Embodiments of the present invention may be used to create
3-dimensional line drawings, 3-dimensional canvases or be used to
construct poems or texts in 3-dimensions.
[0044] Embodiments may also be used to build structures such as
reconfigurable modular buildings.
[0045] Certain embodiments may also be used to construct game
boards such as for chess. Certain embodiments may also include an
array of reflective mirrors for directing light, for example laser
light, through the interior of the apparatus along its length so as
to function as an optical cable. Such embodiments could also be
used as a periscope or similar viewing apparatus.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0046] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described
by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings
in which:
[0047] FIG. 1 shows a prior art Rubik's Twist.TM. apparatus;
[0048] FIG. 2 illustrates another prior art arrangement comprising
27 sub-units connected together by an elastic biasing member;
[0049] FIG. 3a shows another prior art arrangement in which 8
sub-units are provided with perpendicular grooves in opposite faces
which allow the sub-units to be rotated around three perpendicular
rotational axes relative to each other;
[0050] FIG. 3b shows a sub-unit of the prior art arrangement of
FIG. 3a;
[0051] FIGS. 4a to 4d show various views of an embodiment of the
present invention;
[0052] FIG. 5a shows various views of a hollow sub-unit according
to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0053] FIG. 5b shows various views of a hollow sub-unit according
to another embodiment of the present invention;
[0054] FIG. 6 shows alternative sub-units with cross parts to
improve locking (improving resistance to disengagement) and to
improve rigidity. It has a sub-unit with an end cap, which is an
alternative to that shown in FIG. 5a.
[0055] FIG. 7 shows alternative sub-units with cross parts to
improve locking (improving resistance to disengagement) and to
improve rigidity. It has a cross-shaped sub-unit which is an
alternative to that shown in FIG. 5b.
[0056] FIG. 8 shows various views of sub-units comprising four
locking pegs according to another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0057] FIG. 9 shows various views of sub-units comprising a large
boss with extended locking according to another embodiment of the
present invention;
[0058] FIGS. 10 to 14 show alternative embodiments which have a
separate locking member disposed between adjacent sub-units. FIG.
12 shows alternative locking members with cross parts to improve
locking (improving resistance to disengagement) and to improve
rigidity.
[0059] FIGS. 15 to 17 show alternative embodiments in which each
sub-unit has its own connecting member;
[0060] FIGS. 18a and 18b show embodiments which comprise double
cube sub-units with a separate locking member disposed between
adjacent sub-units;
[0061] FIGS. 19 and 20 show embodiments which comprise elongate
sub-units;
[0062] FIGS. 21 and 22 show embodiments which comprise fixing
members;
[0063] FIGS. 23 to 29 show a variety of different arrangements
according to alternative embodiments of the present invention
including tesseract sub-units (FIGS. 23 to 28) and
rhombicuboctahedral sub-units (FIG. 29).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0064] FIGS. 4a to 4d show a first embodiment of the present
invention. The apparatus comprises a chain of sixty four sub-units
connected together by an elastic biasing member passing through
holes in the sub-units and being attached to end members of the
chain. The elastic biasing member is under tension such that the
sub-units are held together under compressive loading by the end
members.
[0065] Each sub-unit is generally cubic in shape. Two perpendicular
grooves are provided in a top face of each sub-unit forming a
cross-shaped opening which extends down through the sub-unit to
approximately half the height of the sub-unit. The sub-unit also
comprises a hole which extends up from a bottom face and intersects
the cross-shaped opening at a central point of the sub-unit.
[0066] Each sub-unit further comprises a square-shaped recess in a
bottom face. Square-shaped projections are provided on each of the
side faces and in the top face. These square shaped projections are
complementary in shape to the square-shaped recess in the bottom
surface. The grooves extend through the square-shaped projections
such that the square-shaped projection on the top face is split
into four smaller square-shaped sub-projections while the
square-shaped projections on the side surfaces appear U-shaped.
[0067] When the chain is arranged in a vertical linear
configuration, the projection on the top face of one sub-unit fits
neatly into the recess on the bottom face of the next sub-unit. The
elastic biasing member holds the projection in the recess and the
complementary fit between the projection and the recess prevents
the sub-units from rotating relative to each other and resists
disengagement.
[0068] In order to rotate the sub-units relative to each other, the
sub-units are pulled apart (disengaged) such that the projection of
one sub-unit no longer extends into the recess of its adjacent
sub-unit. Once pulled apart in this manner, the sub-units are still
connected together by the elastic biasing member which is stretched
between the two adjacent sub-units. In this pulled-apart
configuration, the two sub-units can be rotated relative to each
other around any one of three perpendicular axes. These rotational
movements are described below for a simple example comprising two
adjacent sub-units disposed one on top of the other.
[0069] For two adjacent sub-units disposed one on top of the other,
if the top sub-unit is rotated around a vertical axis then the top
face of the bottom sub-unit remains facing the bottom face of the
top sub-unit. The top sub-unit may be rotated by 90.degree.,
180.degree., 270.degree. or 360.degree. relative to the bottom
sub-unit. When released, the elastic biasing member pulls the two
sub-units back together with the square-shaped projection on the
top face of the bottom sub-unit re-engaging with the square-shaped
recess in the bottom face of the top sub-unit. Such a manipulation
is illustrated in the Figures.
[0070] Alternatively, if the top sub-unit is rotated 90.degree.
relative to the bottom sub-unit around a horizontal rotational axis
passing through the centre of the bottom sub-unit then the bottom
face of the top sub-unit will oppose a side face of the bottom
sub-unit. When released, the elastic biasing member pulls the two
sub-units back together with the square-shaped projection on the
side face of the bottom sub-unit engaging with the square-shaped
recess in the bottom face of the top sub-unit (although the term
"top sub-unit" is used here for consistency, the "top sub-unit"
will now be disposed on the side of the bottom sub-unit). Such a
manipulation is illustrated in the Figures.
[0071] A similar 90.degree. rotational manipulation to that
described above may be performed clockwise or anticlockwise around
either of two perpendicular horizontal rotational axes passing
through the centre of the bottom sub-unit and being aligned with
the cross-shaped grooves in the bottom sub-unit. As such, the two
adjacent sub-units can be rotated about three perpendicular
rotational axes: two horizontal and one vertical. In so doing, the
bottom face of the top sub-unit can be located against any one of
the top or side faces of the bottom sub-unit.
[0072] Particular preferred chain lengths are those which can be
folded into a cube and include eight (a 2.times.2.times.2 cube),
twenty seven (a 3.times.3.times.3 cube), sixty four (a
4.times.4.times.4 cube), 125 (a 5.times.5.times.5 cube), 216 (a
6.times.6.times.6 cube), and so on.
[0073] It has been found that a chain comprising sixty four
sub-units is particularly useful for allowing a wide diversity of
structures to be realized. If each cube face is provided with a
different pattern or colour, an upper bound on the number of
permutations is approximately 10.sup.83 which is greater than the
number of atoms in the observable universe and far exceeds the
number of permutations for a standard Rubik's Cube.TM. which has
approximately 10.sup.20 possible permutations.
[0074] It has been found that embodiments of the present invention
can be made with more sub-units than prior art arrangements
discussed above. This is because chains having a relatively large
number of sub-units are increased in weight. This increase in
weight causes prior art arrangements to fall out of a desired
configuration under their own weight because adjacent sub-units of
the prior art arrangements do not have any locking mechanism to
impede rotation, and disengagement, of the sub-units. In contrast,
the complementary projections and recesses of embodiments of the
present invention effectively lock the sub-units against rotation
when they are not pulled apart by a user. Furthermore, the
projections are gripped by the recesses to resist disengagement. As
such, embodiments having more than eight or twenty seven sub-units
can be realised.
[0075] The sub-units can also be made hollow to reduce weight. This
can be very important, particularly for large embodiments, to help
prevent the apparatus collapsing under its own weight. In such
embodiments, each sub-unit can comprise an internal cavity. The
cavity may be substantially cubic in shape, spherical, or some
other suitable shape.
[0076] Embodiments of the present invention can provide
"semi-permanent" structures. By "semi-permanent" we mean that a
structure is effectively locked in its current configuration and
remains in this configuration even when the structure is knocked
into. Furthermore, the structure can be moved as a whole from one
location to another without the structure moving out of its current
configuration. The structure is not fully permanent because the
structure can be reconfigured by a user pulling apart the sub-units
and manipulating the sub-units in accordance with the previously
described movements to achieve a new structure. However, only when
a user pulls apart, and holds apart, the sub-units can the
sub-units be rotated so as to move into a different configuration.
As such, the structures are best described as "semi-permanent" and
may remain in a specific configuration, for example as a sculpture,
for any amount of time desired. Embodiments may also be provided
with permanent fixing mechanism in addition to the temporary
locking mechanism which resists rotation and disengagement. For
example, once the apparatus has been configured into a design which
the user wishes to keep, glue, fastening screws, or other permanent
fixing mechanism can be used to permanently fix the apparatus in a
desired configuration.
[0077] FIG. 5a shows various views of a hollow sub-unit similar to
the sub-units of the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4a to 4d. The
sub-unit comprises a main body member in which perpendicular
grooves are disposed and an end-capping member in which a recess is
disposed. The main body member is hollow and is configured to
receive the end-capping member to construct the sub-unit. Such a
hollow sub-unit can be advantageous as it reduces the weight of the
apparatus.
[0078] FIG. 5b shows a similar hollow sub-unit to that illustrated
in FIG. 5a but without an end-capping member. In this arrangement,
the main body member has an open end which forms the recess for
receiving a complementary projection from an adjacent sub-unit.
[0079] It should perhaps be emphasised that the hollowness of
sub-units can be extremely important for the functioning of certain
embodiments of the present invention, particularly large and/or
long embodiments which would otherwise collapse under the weight of
the apparatus as a whole if constructed with essentially solid
sub-units.
[0080] FIGS. 6 and 7 show alternative sub-units with cross parts to
improve locking (improving resistance to disengagement) and to
improve rigidity. In FIG. 6 a sub-unit with an end cap is depicted,
which is an alternative to that shown in FIG. 5a. In the top row,
the sub-unit with its additional annulus end cap, for facilitating
engagement and resisting disengagement, is shown. FIG. 7 shows a
sub-unit with cross-shaped parts, which is an alternative to that
shown in FIG. 5b, and is a sub-unit without an end cap. It has four
engaging members arranged in a square on each of five faces, and a
surface with four hollows, recesses, or holes for receiving the
engaging member of a similar sub-unit.
[0081] The alternate version of the sub-unit shown in FIG. 6 is not
different internally from that of FIG. 5a, but some external
modifications have been made. An annulus similar to that in FIG. 12
has been added as an end cap. The annulus may be any of those
depicted in FIG. 12. An advantageous embodiment shown in this
Figure comprises a cross shape (with a hole) forming four distinct
recesses. Additional grooves have been cut into the projections on
all the remaining faces of the main body of the sub-unit; thus
forming a cross shape complementary to the new cross shaped element
added to the end cap. This leads to better strength of the sub-unit
(e.g. better resistance to compression, less flexing) and improved
resistance to rotation. It also provides better locking/resistance
to disengagement due to the snug, potentially airtight, fit/seal
between all the projections on the faces. The projections may be on
one or more faces, or on five faces, as described herein.
[0082] The alternative version of the sub-unit shown in FIG. 7, is
similar to that shown in FIG. 5b, except an internal tubular
channel has been added to the inside, hollowed out part, of the
sub-unit (through which the biasing member can travel). Ribs have
been added, defining a cross shape with four distinct recesses.
Additional grooves have been cut into the projections on all the
remaining faces of the sub-unit--this forms a cross shape which is
complementary to the new cross shaped element added to the inside.
This leads to better strength of the sub-unit (e.g. better
resistance to compression, less flexing) and improved resistance to
rotation. It also leads to better locking/resistance to
disengagement due to the snug, potentially airtight, fit/seal
between all the projections on the faces. The projections may be on
one or more faces, or on five faces, as described herein.
[0083] FIG. 8 shows various views of sub-units according to another
embodiment. Each sub-unit has a cross-shaped groove and a hole
through which the elastic biasing member (not shown) extends. The
sub-units also comprise projections and complementary recesses. The
particular sub-units illustrated in FIG. 8 comprise four
cylindrical-shaped projections disposed in a square configuration
on one face. Corresponding holes are provided in the other faces of
each sub-unit. The arrangement is, in some respects, an inverted
version of the embodiment of FIGS. 4a to 4d. While the sub-units
illustrated in FIGS. 4a to 4d have a single recess in one face and
projections on all the other faces, the sub-units illustrated in
FIG. 8 comprise projections on one face and recesses in all the
other faces.
[0084] FIG. 9 shows various views of sub-units according to another
embodiment. Each sub-unit in FIG. 9 comprises a single projection
on one face which has a generally square-shaped cross-section.
Corresponding square shaped recesses are provided in the other
faces. The projection in this embodiment is relatively large
compared to the previously described embodiments and extends
through the centre of an adjacent sub-unit in the chain. In order
to accommodate the elastic biasing member (which will also pass
through the centre of the sub-unit) and allow suitable
re-orientation of the elastic biasing member, the projection also
has a cross-shaped groove through which the elastic biasing member
can extend. The bottom of the cross-shaped groove in the projection
will be disposed at a central point in an adjacent sub-unit when
locked together.
[0085] FIGS. 10 to 14 show alternative locking mechanisms which
utilise a separate locking member disposed between adjacent
sub-units.
[0086] In the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 10, adjacent
sub-units comprise projections and a locking member is disposed
between adjacent sub-units, the locking member having recesses
which are complementary to the projections. The projections of the
adjacent sub-unit are received in the recesses of the locking
member to lock the adjacent sub-units together resisting rotation
and disengagement. When adjacent sub-units are pulled apart, the
projections no longer extend into the recesses of the locking
member disposed therebetween and the adjacent sub-units can then be
rotated relative to each other into a new configuration. When
released, the biasing member pulls the adjacent sub-units together
and the projections re-engage in the recesses of the intermediate
locking member thus preventing further rotation and disengagement.
In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, the projections have a
square-shaped cross-sectional shape and the locking members are in
the form of a tube or ring with a corresponding square
cross-sectional shape. However, other shapes can be envisaged. The
important feature is that the projections and recesses are
complementary and resist rotation, and also resist disengagement,
when in an engaged configuration.
[0087] FIG. 11 shows a locking ring arrangement similar to that
illustrated in FIG. 10 but wherein the grooves in each sub-unit are
configured in a different manner. In the arrangement illustrated in
FIG. 10, one face of each sub-unit has a pair of perpendicular
grooves and the opposite face has no groove. In contrast, in the
arrangement illustrated in FIG. 11 the perpendicular grooves are
disposed in opposite faces of each sub-unit.
[0088] FIG. 12 shows alternative separate locking members with
cross parts to improve locking (improving resistance to
disengagement) and to improve rigidity. It shows an outer ring
which may be used in some sub-units as a separate locking member.
When the outer ring of FIG. 12 is employed in the sub-units as a
separate locking member, they are particularly advantageously
resistant to disengagement and to rotation. In this case an annular
structure with a square cross-section is shown, but in the
invention any annulus with any cross-section may be employed,
depending on the nature of the sub-units. There may be a single
hole in the annulus, as in the top left annulus of FIG. 12, or
multiple holes, as in the bottom left (2 holes) and bottom right (4
holes) annuli of FIG. 12. The sub-units may also comprise further
central, or middle, parts which are adapted to guide the locking
member (i.e. the annulus or other such member) and the engaging
member of the adjacent sub-units better towards the engaged
position. Thus, in some embodiments, the annulus may comprise a
projection from the perimeter of the annulus toward its centre to
provide a guide, hole or channel for the connecting/biasing member,
as in the annulus in the top right of FIG. 12. Where a plurality of
holes are present in the annulus, there are one or more bridging
pieces across the opening from edge to edge, and this may offer
improved strength/rigidity. These annuli may be employed in any
other appropriate types of sub-unit. Separate such rings have been
shown as locking members in FIG. 10, FIG. 11 and FIG. 18a, but the
annulus may be integral with the sub-unit too, as shown in FIGS. 5b
and 6.
[0089] In the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 13, adjacent
sub-units comprise recesses and a locking member is disposed
between adjacent sub-units, the locking member having projections
which are complementary to the recesses. The projections of the
locking member are received in the recesses of the adjacent
sub-units to lock the adjacent sub-units together resisting
rotation and disengagement. When adjacent sub-units are pulled
apart, the projections of the locking member no longer extend into
the recesses of the sub-units and the adjacent sub-units can then
be rotated relative to each other into a new configuration. When
released, the biasing member pulls the adjacent sub-units together
and the projections re-engage in the recesses thus preventing
further rotation and disengagement.
[0090] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13, the recesses in
each sub-unit have a square cross-sectional shape and the locking
members are in the form of a rod or peg with a corresponding square
cross-sectional shape. However, other shapes can be envisaged. The
important feature is that the projections and recesses are
complementary and resist rotation when in an engaged
configuration.
[0091] FIG. 14 shows a locking rod arrangement similar to that
illustrated in FIG. 13 but wherein the grooves in each sub-unit are
configured in a different manner. In the arrangement illustrated in
FIG. 13, one face of each sub-unit has a pair of perpendicular
grooves and the opposite face has no groove. In contrast, in the
arrangement illustrated in FIG. 14 the perpendicular grooves are
disposed in opposite faces of each sub-unit such that one groove is
disposed in one face and a perpendicular groove is disposed in an
opposite face.
[0092] Other configurations for the projections and recesses can be
envisaged. The size and shape of the projections and recesses can
be selected according to a desired use. Long projections and deep
recesses can provide a stronger locking mechanism resulting in very
rigid structures. However, the sub-units must then be pulled
further apart in order to de-couple the projections and recesses in
order to manipulate the chain into a different configuration. As
such, an increase in rigidity can be obtained but at the cost of a
reduction in the ease of manipulation. Shorter projections and
shallower recesses are easy to decouple in order to manipulate the
chain but are more likely to de-couple "accidentally" when the
chain is in a desired configuration.
[0093] This balance between ease of manipulation and resistance to
"accidental" decoupling of the projections and recesses is also
dependent on the amount of tension in the elastic biasing member.
If the tension in the elastic biasing member is high, the sub-units
are held together more firmly making any structural configuration
of the sub-units stronger. However, it is then more difficult to
pull the sub-units apart and manipulate them into a different
structural configuration. In contrast, if the tension in the
elastic biasing member is low, the sub-units can be easily pulled
apart so as to be manipulated into a new configuration. However,
the sub-units are then held less firmly together making any
structural configuration of the sub-units weaker. The locking
member will in any event resist disengagement, and its level of
resistance can be tailored to the tension in the biasing member to
optimise structural integrity.
[0094] A suitable balance can be achieved between the size of the
projections/recesses and the strength of the elastic biasing
member. Alternatively, it is possible to provide an adjusting
mechanism for adjusting the tension in the elastic biasing member.
For example, one or both of the end members of a chain may be
provided with such a mechanism. The mechanism may take the form of
a screw type arrangement which is connected to the end of the
elastic biasing member. For example, screwing the mechanism
outwards may increase the length, and therefore tension, in the
elastic biasing member, whilst screwing the mechanism inwards may
decrease the length, and therefore tension, in the elastic biasing
member. Using such a mechanism, the tension of the elastic biasing
member can be decreased for ease of manipulation to achieve a
desired configuration. When the desired configuration has been
achieved, the tension of the elastic biasing member can be
increased to increase the strength of the desired configuration
such that it cannot be accidentally knocked out of this
configuration even when dropped or thrown about. These mechanisms
also allow the possibility of using a non-elastic wire or nylon
string as the connecting member. Alternatively, an elastic member
may be used but incorporating some inelastic strands or wire to
limit maximum extension or to add strength to prevent the elastic
member tearing catastrophically.
[0095] Another possibility for the connecting member would be to
use a "muscle wire" comprising a shape memory alloy wire or
shape-memory polymer wire/string.
[0096] Other tension adjusting mechanisms can be envisaged. For
example, a ratchet mechanism, a twisting mechanism, a push button
mechanism, or an electrical or electro-mechanical mechanism.
[0097] Other embodiments may utilize an inelastic connecting member
or a plurality of inelastic connecting members functioning without
any springs or tensioning mechanism. For example, certain
arrangements may utilize a normal piece of string without any
springs or tightening mechanism. Such an arrangement would rely
solely on interference or other locking between the sub-units to
resist disengagement and to maintain semi-permanent configurations.
The connecting member(s) have the function of firstly preventing
the sub-units from becoming dispersed or losing their sequence, and
secondly ensuring that only a limited number of sub-units is `in
play` (i.e. are disengaged) at any one time.
[0098] Previous embodiments have been described for use with a
single flexible elongate biasing member which extends along the
chain of sub-units and holds the sub-units together in compression.
However, it is also possible to provide arrangements which comprise
a plurality of connecting members, each of the connecting members
being disposed between adjacent sub-units along the chain. FIGS. 15
to 17 illustrate examples of such connecting members.
[0099] FIG. 15 shows various views of cube shaped sub-units which
comprise cross-shaped grooves in one face and a connecting member
extending from the opposite face. The connecting member comprises
an elongate rod which extends through the grooves of an adjacent
sub-unit and is moveable within the grooves. The connecting member
further comprises a bulb at the end of the elongate rod which is
disposed within a cavity in the interior of an adjacent sub-unit.
The rod and the bulb together form a proboscis. The bulb is broader
than the grooves such that it cannot pass back through the grooves.
As such, adjacent sub-units are held together. However, the bulb is
smaller than the cavity allowing some free-play between adjacent
sub-units so that they can be pulled apart. A spring, or some other
biasing member, is disposed around the rod and between the bulb and
an interior wall of the cavity such that when two adjacent
sub-units are pulled apart, the spring/biasing member is
compressed. A cup and ring may be provided to mount the
spring/biasing member against the interior wall of the cavity as
illustrated in FIG. 15. When released, the spring/biasing member
pulls the two adjacent sub-units back together.
[0100] Recesses are provided in the interior wall of the cavity,
the recesses having a complementary shape to that of the bulb. As
such, when two adjacent sub-units are pulled together by the
spring, the bulb is received in a recess and locks the two adjacent
sub-units together. The interior cavity is preferably spherical in
shape to allow the connecting member to slide around the interior
wall of the cavity when the sub-units are being moved relative to
each other.
[0101] FIG. 16 shows a similar arrangement to that illustrated in
FIG. 15. The difference here is that the connecting member has a
base which is broader than the rod. The base acts as a secondary
locking mechanism as the other faces of the sub-unit have
complementary recesses into which the base can fit to lock adjacent
sub-units together.
[0102] In FIGS. 15 and 16, the connecting member functions both to
connect adjacent sub-units together and also lock adjacent
sub-units together via the bulb and/or base of the connecting
member and a corresponding recess on an interior or exterior
surface of an adjacent sub-unit. In contrast, the arrangement
illustrated in FIG. 17 includes a connecting member which connects
adjacent sub-units together but does not function to lock two
adjacent sub-units together. Rather, in this arrangement,
projections and recesses on the exterior surfaces of adjacent
sub-units function to lock adjacent sub-units together in a similar
manner to that illustrated in FIGS. 4a to 4d. The connecting member
comprises a rod and a bulb similar to that illustrated in FIG. 15.
However, no recesses are required in the cavity wall as the
recesses and projections on the exterior surfaces serve as the
locking mechanism. It is to be noted that a biasing member will be
present in such an arrangement although it is not illustrated in
FIG. 17. The biasing member could be a spring as illustrated in
FIGS. 15 and 16. Alternatively, an elongate elastic member could be
provided as in the arrangement of FIGS. 4a to 4d. Yet another
alternative may utilize a telescoping proboscis.
[0103] It is also possible to envisage a version of the sub-units
similar to that shown in FIG. 17, however, incorporating as the
"bulb" of the proboscis an element similar to (though shorter than)
the large boss with extended locking shown in FIG. 9.
[0104] One advantage of the proboscis arrangements discussed above
is that the apparatus cannot physically come apart (allowing for
child or adult strength) if, for instance, the elastic snaps. As
such, it is possible to make the apparatus more robust.
[0105] The previously described arrangements comprise sub-units
which are substantially cubic in shape. However, this is not a
strict requirement. For example, the arrangement shown in FIG. 18a
comprises a locking ring similar to that illustrated in FIGS. 10
and 11, but each sub-unit effectively comprises two cube shaped
members. Similarly, the arrangement shown in FIG. 18b comprises a
locking rod similar to that illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, but
each sub-unit effectively comprises two cube shaped members.
"Double-Cube" sub-units may be provided with other locking
mechanisms as described herein. For example, Double-Cube sub-units
with a locking mechanism as illustrated in FIGS. 4a-4d or an
internal locking mechanism such as illustrated in FIGS. 15-17 may
be provided. A Double-Cube sub-unit using the locking arrangement
illustrated in FIGS. 4a-4d may be visualized by considering two of
the sub-units from FIGS. 4a-4d permanently joined together forming
a sub-unit. Alternatively, a less elongated version of the sub-unit
shown in FIG. 19 may be envisaged. "Triple-cube" subunits and
greater are also envisaged.
[0106] The arrangement shown in FIG. 19 is, in some respects,
similar to that shown in FIGS. 4a to 4d (and also similar to that
shown in FIGS. 18a and 18b), but with much longer elongate
sub-units. Cross-shaped grooves are provided in each end of the
elongate sub-units with projections disposed at one end and
corresponding recesses disposed at an opposite end.
[0107] FIG. 20 illustrates a variant on the arrangement shown in
FIG. 19. Here, only a single groove is provided at each end of the
elongate sub-units. The grooves in opposing ends are parallel to
each other such that the apparatus more readily manipulated in a
two dimensional plane in contrast to previously described
arrangements which can be manipulated in three dimensions.
[0108] Other configuration for the grooves can be envisaged. One,
two or more grooves may be provided depending on the shape of the
sub-units and the desired freedom of motion required for particular
applications.
[0109] In previously described arrangements, structures formed
using the apparatus may be described as semi-permanent in that the
sub-units are locked together to resist relative rotation but can
be pulled apart so as to be manipulated into new configurations if
desired.
[0110] The aforementioned arrangements can be adapted to provide
structures which may be described as permanent by including fixing
members. The fixing members may, for example, be provided by screws
and corresponding screw holes which can be used to fix the
apparatus after it has been manipulated into a desired
configuration.
[0111] FIG. 21 illustrates an arrangement in which sub-units are
provided with screw holes within recesses along edges of the
sub-units. A fixing member which has a complementary shape to the
recesses can be screwed into the screw holes of adjacent sub-units
to fix the adjacent sub-units together as illustrated in the
Figure.
[0112] FIG. 22 shows an alternative fixing arrangement in which the
fixing members are disposed at corners of adjacent sub-units rather
than along edges of adjacent sub-units as illustrated in FIG.
21.
[0113] In previously described arrangements, each sub-unit of the
chain comprises both at least one projection and at least one
recess. As such, in a single chain all the sub-units can be made
the same. However, it is envisaged that different sub-units can be
provided in a single chain. For example, the sub-units may
alternate between sub-units which have only recesses and sub-units
which have only projections.
[0114] The sub-units may be any shape. For example, cube, cuboid,
tetrahedron, sphere, pyramid, prism, polyhedral, rhomboid,
rhombicuboctahedron, and tesseract hypercube shapes may be used.
They may be made of suitable material including wood, metal, glass,
foam, plastic, rubber, composites, steel reinforced concrete, and
pre-stressed concrete depending on the desired use. The sub-units
may be solid or hollow.
[0115] FIGS. 23 to 29 show a variety of different arrangements
according to alternative embodiments of the present invention.
FIGS. 23 to 28 show arrangements comprising tesseract sub-units.
FIG. 27 shows tesseract sub-units which have holes for locking
screws/pins while FIG. 28 shows tesseract subunits which have a
locking slider ring.
[0116] FIG. 29 shows rhombicuboctahedral sub-units. The
rhombicuboctahedral arrangement is an example of an embodiment with
more than 3 rotational axes.
[0117] Some general points regarding the internal structure of the
sub-units are worth highlighting. Hollow sub-units are advantageous
since they impart lightness to the apparatus, which may allow
larger structures to be constructed with a large number of sub
units to. If the sub-units are small, or low in number, hollow
sub-units are not as desired. The tension in the biasing member
should be as close as possible to being equal in all
configurations. This enables improved functioning and manoeuvring
between configurations (smooth, unimpeded, flow through the
sub-units is much more pleasant for the user). The channels
(grooves and tubes formed in the material around/through which
biasing member passes) may simultaneously fulfil several functions,
especially in our hollow sub-unit versions: they may guide and/or
support the biasing member so that it flows smoothly (freely and/or
unimpeded) through approximately the centre point of every
(sub-unit) to aid in maintaining nearly equal tension in all
configurations; they may aid structurally (such as in
reinforcement) dealing with resisting, transmitting and
distributing one or more of compressive forces, loads, stresses and
strains etc; they improve manufacturability, particularly for
plastic injection moulding of hollow versions. A filet may be
employed on the edges of internal structures to ensure smooth flow
of biasing member. It may also be advantageous to provide a
lubricant, such as a silicone based lubricant, or a
self-lubricating material such a nylon or graphite. A dry lubricant
such as graphite powder may be advantageous. The end caps may be
concealed--i.e. fixed so as to be visible as a separate part only
from the bottom view when a sub-unit is disengaged and not visible
at all when in engaged state (avoiding visible join line).
[0118] The flexible elongate biasing member may comprise a
conductive material so as to provide an electrical connection.
Light sources may be mounted in one or more of the sub-units and
connected to the power cable. For example, the sub-units may be
made of a semi-transparent coloured plastic (e.g. a
semi-transparent red plastic material) and a helical wire may be
coiled along the length of the flexible elongate biasing member
(e.g. inside the flexible elongate biasing member to protect the
wire), and connected to a light source such as an LED light source
within each sub-unit. A helical arrangement for the cable/wire
allows the cable/wire to be extended in length when manipulating
the sub-units of the apparatus. Alternatively, electrical
connections may be provided in each of the individual sub-units to
provide a conductive path through the chain for powering lighting
elements. Such configuration may provide a glow lamp which can be
manipulated into different configurations and may be utilised as a
lamp.
[0119] Another possible embodiment involves incorporating a
light-emissive material such as a fluorescent or phosphorescent
material into the plastic material of the sub-units in the
apparatus. This may avoid any complex wiring as described
previously in relation to the lamp embodiment. While such an
embodiment may not function as well as a lamp compared with a
wire/LED arrangement, it would still provide a glow-in-the-dark
glow stick.
[0120] Another alternative would be to provide a power source, such
as a battery, and a light source in one or more of the sub-units so
as to avoid the need for a power cable extending between the
sub-units.
[0121] The sub-units may be made (or partly made of) conductive
material such as metal or conductive polymer.
[0122] Another possible application is to provide an apparatus
which floats for use in a swimming pool. This may be achieved by
using suitable plastic, wood or foam material for the sub-units of
the apparatus. Other arrangements may be utilized in space or other
low gravity environments.
[0123] Yet another possible application is as fencing or temporary
building structures. A suitably sized apparatus, or a plurality of
such apparatus, can be used to fence off areas of various shapes or
form temporary walls, platforms or the like. This type of apparatus
may be particularly useful for temporary structures at social,
sporting or music events. The apparatus can then readily be
re-configured into a more compact structure for transportation
between events.
[0124] Other embodiments may be used as re-configurable buildings
in architectural models and as real life full-scale modular
buildings for use in space, underwater, on the moon, on earth and
other planets and to form reconfigurable cities of the future.
[0125] Other embodiments of the present invention may be used to
create 3-dimensional line drawings, 3-dimensional canvases or be
used to construct poems or texts in 3-dimensions.
[0126] Embodiments may also be used to construct furniture such as
chairs or tables. Further embodiments may be used to construct a
ladder or rope.
[0127] Two or more apparatus according to the present invention may
be configured to be connected together to form a structure
comprising a plurality of chains. For example, end member sub-units
may be configured to connect to another chain. Alternatively, or
additionally, one or more intermediate sub-units may be configured
to connect to another chain. The apparatus may also be configured
to include several chains which are permanently connected together.
Alternatively, the apparatus may have each end connected together
to form, for example, a necklace, bracelet or bangle and/or be made
of a suitable precious metal such as gold. Alternatively
`multi-headed` (or `multi-tailed`) apparatus may be provided. In
the typical embodiments, the apparatus is linear with a head and a
tail, but in some circumstances apparatus that have two heads and
one tail or two heads and two tails (or three or more heads and/or
three or more tails) may also be desirable. These multi-headed
devices may, for example, be cross shaped (e.g. plus sign, Maltese
cross, 3D cross, double plus sign etc.).
[0128] The sub-units may have different coloured faces, patterns,
pictures, numbers or letters thereon to form a puzzle or puzzles to
be solved by the user. The apparatus may be provided in a kit with
one or more target structures, patterns, pictures or words to be
formed by a user. A target pattern, picture, number or word may be
achieved by manipulating the apparatus into a certain
configuration. Certain embodiments may also be used to form magic
squares, magic cubes, word squares or word cubes. More than one
different design/puzzle may be contained/concealed within a single
apparatus. The apparatus may also comprise ball-bearings which can
be moved around the sub-units by tilting the apparatus to form a
ball-bearing type puzzle comprising grooves and holes.
[0129] The apparatus may light-up, make a sound, and/or vibrate
when certain configurations are achieved. Different coloured lights
or different sounds or music may be associated with different
configurations of the apparatus. This may be achieved, for example,
by providing different electrical connections on each face of the
sub-units. A processor may be provided to analyse the electrical
connections between the plurality of sub-units and control a
lighting unit, a speaker, a vibrating unit, or some other apparatus
according to the configuration of the apparatus. It is also
envisaged that other types of connections may be utilized for
providing this control function, e.g. optical.
[0130] Other embodiments may be used as a 3-dimensional ruler and
may comprise a suitable scale for measuring distances in
3-dimensions.
[0131] A processor may be provided in the apparatus and configured
to communicate with a computer and/or other equipment via Wi-Fi,
Bluetooth, etc.
[0132] While the previous embodiments have been described as being
manipulated by a user by hand, other embodiments may be provided
with a mechanical/motorized mechanism allowing remotely controlled
reconfiguration of the apparatus.
[0133] Other potential uses for embodiments of the present
invention include: [0134] an apparatus configured to function as a
foldable computer, personal digital assistant, or mobile phone
keyboard (with each face being touch-sensitive); [0135] an
apparatus configured to function as a mobile phone which, for
example, folds and unfolds from a necklace/bracelet/bangle into a
slate/pad--some sub-unit faces may have a display, some sub-unit
faces may be touch-sensitive, some sub-units may function as
speakers, etc.; [0136] an apparatus configured to function as a
video projector; [0137] an apparatus configured to function as a
projector screen; [0138] an apparatus configured to function as an
LED display; [0139] an apparatus configured to function as a USB
key or solid state digital memory device, which may be worn as a
belt, necklace, bracelet/bangle; [0140] an apparatus configured to
function as a reconfigurable solar energy unit; [0141] an apparatus
configured to function as an aerial for TV, radio, wi-fi etc;
[0142] an apparatus configured to function as a radio unit; [0143]
an apparatus configured to function as an MP3 Player; [0144] an
apparatus configured to function as an unfurlable speaker unit or
headphones; [0145] an apparatus configured to function as a TV set;
[0146] an apparatus configured to function as a games console;
[0147] an apparatus configured to function as a computer comprising
central processing unit chips (possibly parallel) in combination
with one or more of the other elements mentioned above; [0148] an
apparatus configured to function as a writing implement; [0149] an
apparatus configured to function as an eraser; and [0150] an
apparatus configured to function as a stand, tri-pod (or other
multi-pod).
[0151] There is also a huge potential for users to build/assemble
their own apparatus by providing a kit or kits to be assembled by a
user. A kit may comprise one or more connecting members and a
selection of sub-units which may be the same or different.
[0152] While this invention has been particularly shown and
described with reference to preferred embodiments thereof, it will
be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in
form and details may be made therein without departing from the
scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
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