Tier-on-Tier Jigsaw Puzzle with Variable Thickness

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional jigsaw puzzles lack the complexity and three-dimensional imagery required to enhance the assembly strategy and visual appeal, with existing solutions failing to effectively incorporate multiple levels and adequate three-dimensional imagery, leading to a stagnant puzzle-solving experience.

Innovation Solution

The development of a multiple level jigsaw puzzle comprising a base puzzle and an upper puzzle, with pieces featuring varying thicknesses and irregular edges, allowing for tier-on-tier assembly and enhanced image representation through contoured textures and multiple elevation changes, thereby altering the traditional sorting and grouping strategies.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If traditional two-dimensional jigsaw puzzles are used, then the assembly strategy is simple and familiar, but the visual appeal and complexity are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepuzzle structureVSAvoidassembly strategy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional puzzle pieces to three-dimensional tiered pieces with multiple elevation levels. Each puzzle piece comprises a base tier and one or more elevated tiers, creating vertical dimensionality that adds complexity while maintaining familiar knob-and-hole interlocking mechanisms for assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The puzzle is divided into multiple tiers or levels, with each tier representing a different elevation. The base tier forms the foundation while elevated tiers stack above it, segmenting the overall puzzle structure into manageable horizontal layers that can be assembled systematically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Shape

If three-dimensional images are introduced to enhance visual appeal, then the image quality improves, but the manufacturing cost and assembly difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage representationVSAvoidmanufacturing process
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The three-dimensional tiered structure is applied locally to specific regions of the puzzle pieces rather than uniformly across all pieces. Each piece has knobs and holes positioned at specific tiers, allowing selective elevation changes that enhance the image representation in key areas while maintaining simplicity in other areas.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates three-dimensional image representation by stacking tiers vertically, transforming two-dimensional images into multi-level three-dimensional structures. This adds depth and visual interest without requiring complex manufacturing processes, as the tiers are formed through standard molding or cutting techniques applied to individual pieces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Device complexity

If the number of puzzle pieces is increased to raise difficulty, then the challenge level improves, but the time to complete the puzzle increases without altering strategy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepuzzle difficultyVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The puzzle is segmented into multiple tiers, with the base tier containing the majority of pieces and elevated tiers containing fewer pieces. This segmentation allows players to systematically assemble the puzzle from the bottom tier upward, providing a structured approach that reduces overall assembly time while maintaining high difficulty through the increased number of pieces and complex three-dimensional interlocking requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11717745B2Tier-on-tier multiple level jigsaw puzzle
Publication Date: 2023.08.08 GREENAWALT THOMAS
  • US11717745B2 patent drawing
  • US11717745B2 patent drawing
  • US11717745B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A tier-on-tier multiple level jigsaw puzzle comprised of varying thickness and irregular interlocking pieces which, when assembled, form an image with visible surfaces in relief relative to the tabular surface. The puzzle is formed of a lower, base puzzle and an upper puzzle, which when combined have variable distinct surfaces and variable thickness with planar and/or textured surfaces to result in a raised relief 3D effect. The specific mix of individual pieces exhibiting variable thicknesses & distinct surfaces enhances enjoyment by adding strategic elements to puzzle assembly and optimizes the quality of the image.