Patent Publication Number: US-8528905-B2

Title: Electronic puzzle with problem-solution features for proper placement of puzzle pieces

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/814,386, filed on Dec. 30, 2010 which is related to, claims the benefit of, and is the non-provisional of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/220,535, filed on Jun. 25, 2009, of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The present invention relates generally to games in which engaging pieces may be placed together to form a picture, and more specifically where the game is a puzzle designed to permit alternative methods of forming the picture through challenges beyond the visual. 
     Historically, puzzles are wonderful vehicles for entertainment that are designed such that the resulting picture drives the challenge. In other words, the desire to build the picture piece by piece is based typically upon a copy provided with the puzzle and the visual challenge of fitting each piece appropriately in its respective position. 
     There may certainly be educational aspects to puzzles that entail physical and mental aspects. However, the mental aspects could be enhanced beyond mere visual challenges by not only creating a “positional” relationship between adjacent puzzle pieces that correspond to a properly completed image on the top surface, but also by creating a “problem-solution” relationship between either the puzzle piece and its corresponding position below, or between a puzzle piece and its adjacent piece or pieces. 
     One example of the latter puzzle is shown U.S. Pat. No. 4,076,253 to Eriksen. In that reference, a problem-solution relationship is disclosed among paired adjacent puzzle pieces. The puzzle may be completed by adjoining pieces whose sides correspond to a problem-solution pair. As described in the &#39;253 patent to Eriksen, the complementary counterpart edges are of suitable shape whereby they are intended to be placed into coextensive engagement to form a predetermined figure or symbol. A more desirable and more challenging arrangement is contemplated by the present invention. Indeed, it would be desirable to enthrall a user by providing entertaining feedback when a puzzle has been properly completed. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one embodiment of the present invention, a puzzle comprises a plurality of pieces that when properly aligned complete a picture on one side of the puzzle. In this embodiment, the puzzle has a complementary base or board upon which the puzzle pieces can reside. Traditionally, the back of each puzzle piece would be blank. In this embodiment, however, the back of the puzzle has one of either a problem or solution provided thereon, with a corresponding solution or problem, respectively, at a corresponding place on the base where that particular puzzle piece is supposed to be positioned, or on the back of what should be adjacently-positioned pieces. In the former case, a single problem-solution pair can be created. In the latter case, multiple problem-solution pairs are provided, so that adjacent pieces may be appropriately oriented. 
     In the single problem-solution pair arrangement, either the problem or the solution can be provided on the back of a puzzle piece, and its corresponding solution or problem provided on the puzzle base. In the multiple problem-solution pair arrangement, it is envisioned that each piece would have multiple problems and/or solutions along each “side” of the puzzle piece back that would have a corresponding set of solutions and/or problems on the back of adjacent puzzle piece backs. As the problems and solutions are matched, i.e., when the “problem” piece is placed on the correct “solution” location on the puzzle board, a part of the picture puzzle is completed. 
     In some embodiments of this invention, some or all of the puzzle pieces are uniformly shaped and, therefore, could be interconnected anywhere within the puzzle with any other puzzle piece. They should be engaging in a way that stabilizes the puzzle as it develops, but the pieces need not interlock specifically. Curvilinear or rectilinear sides may be configured so that adjacent pieces fit nicely together, but do not necessarily interlock. In some cases, the puzzle pieces could comprise lock and key (or, e.g., tongue and groover) arrangements such as those found in many traditional puzzles. 
     In other embodiments, some of all of the puzzle pieces comprise a variety of shapes and configurations, but the picture is more complex such that it does not permit easy location of the proper position for a particular piece within the greater picture; e.g., a monotone feature spread over a plurality of pieces. In yet other embodiments, a combination of such shapes and configurations is contemplated, designed to address different challenge levels. As can be appreciated from the embodiments of the present invention, the method for determining the proper placement of the puzzle pieces is more difficult than with a traditional puzzle, enhancing the “challenge” to the puzzle. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
       The detailed description of some embodiments of the invention will be is made below with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein like numerals represent corresponding parts of the figures. 
         FIG. 1  shows a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of a puzzle; 
         FIG. 2  shows a schematic view of both sides of exemplary pieces from the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  shows a schematic view of the puzzle of  FIG. 1  in which the puzzle is shown comprising a top panel of image puzzle pieces (partially cut away) and a lower panel shown by example only comprising a plurality of textual displays that reflect one half of a plurality of problem-solution pairs, where the other half of the pairs are not shown but may be displayed on the back surface of the image puzzle pieces; 
         FIG. 4  shows a schematic view of another embodiment of a puzzle comprising a three-dimensional configuration, in which this particular embodiment comprises a plurality of cube-shaped modules, with some of the cube surfaces displaying images and other surfaces of cubes displaying one half of a problem-solution pair; 
         FIG. 5  shows a schematic view of another embodiment of the three-dimensional cube-shaped modular puzzle of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIGS. 6A-6D  show a schematic view of sensorial three-dimensional embodiment that is electronically enabled to detect the placement of puzzle pieces in the proper place and emanate sound or light to signify completion. 
         FIGS. 7A and 7B  show a schematic view of yet another type of three-dimensional embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS 
     By way of example,  FIGS. 1 through 3  show one embodiment of the inventive puzzle described and claimed herein. One embodiment comprises a puzzle  10  comprising a bottom panel  12  (shown more completely in  FIG. 3 ) and a top or upper panel  14 . The top panel  14  comprises a top surface displaying an image of any desired presentation, where the image comprises a plurality of discrete pieces  18  bounded by a frame  22 . In  FIG. 1 , two of the discrete puzzle pieces  18  are removed, and are described in more detail below. A frame  22  is optional as the puzzle pieces may be configured so as to functionally display an image securely without the need for a frame. Although not critical, an outer edge of the frame  22  may be flush with an outer edge the base panel  12 , as shown. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2 and 3 , a feature of the inventive puzzles comprises corresponding problem-solution pairs that are displayed in a way so as to drive, to some intellectual and/or entertaining degree, progressive assembly of the puzzle. In one embodiment, and by example the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 1 through 3 , one half of the problem-solution pairs are displayed on the based panel  12  and the other half are displayed on the bottom surface of the image puzzle pieces  18 . In  FIG. 2  specifically, two puzzle pieces  18   a ,  18   b  are shown. In this embodiment, the pieces  18  comprises an upper surface  26  displaying part of a desired image  16  and a lower surface  28  displaying one half (by example a question in text form  34 ) of a problem-solution pair. 
     In the example shown in  FIG. 2 , the puzzle pieces  18   a ,  18   b  have shapes that permit complimentary engagement with each other when positioned adjacent, where projecting members  30  of piece  18   b  conform to concave portions  32  of piece  18   a . Such a configuration permits complimentary engagement, but not necessarily interlocking engagement, so other configurations are contemplated for adjacent puzzle pieces  18 . Of course, the pieces  18  may be of a configuration that permits interlocking engagement between adjacent pieces. It should also be noted that the puzzle pieces need not engage each other, but may rather engage the base for stability. There are a number of possible interlocking configurations, both in the particular configuration and profile of the puzzle piece as well as mechanical means that serve to sustain engagement. 
     Referring to  FIG. 3 , the top panel  14  comprises the frame  22  with most of the interior image  16  cut away to expose the bottom panel  12 . The display on the bottom panel, by example in this embodiment, is a plurality of one half of the problem-solution pairs. In one embodiment, the one half of the problem-solution pair may be a question that corresponds to an answer on the back or lower surface of a puzzle piece  18  intended to be placed over that question. It could be instead be an answer corresponding to a puzzle piece having a corresponding question. But, as discussed herein, it could be any combination of intellectual and/or entertaining pairs designed to create a corresponding position for a puzzle piece  18  and a placement on the base panel  12 . In all cases, it is desired that the result of proper placement is an image  16  viewable by the user, as is illustrated by example in  FIG. 1 . In carrying out the puzzle, a user looks at a question (either on the base panel  12  or a puzzle piece  18 ) and tried to match it with the corresponding answer (vice versa) and places the piece on the bottom panel  12  accordingly. 
     If desired, the bottom panel  12  may have defined raised borders to locate the appropriate puzzle piece in a somewhat restrained (i.e., not-so-easily movable) position. The bottom panel may simply present a flat smooth surface as well. It is contemplated that in another embodiment, there is no corresponding pair halves on the base panel  12 , but rather the pair halves are found on the bottom surface of adjacent puzzle pieces. In this case, the user does not need a bottom panel and may build the puzzle on any appropriately flat surface. The user simply tries to match puzzle pieces having corresponding halves of the problem-solution pair to determine which pieces are to be placed adjacent each other. The orientation of one puzzle piece to another may be determined by having multiple problem-solution pairs on the back of a single puzzle piece, with each half corresponding to a different adjacent puzzle piece. For example, for puzzles having a generally grid pattern arrangement of puzzle pieces, an interior puzzle piece would likely have four adjacent pieces (i.e., North, South, East, West). In that case, such interior piece might have a different problem-solution pair half along each of the four back side edges of the puzzle piece so that when the pairs are properly matched, the interior piece is appropriately oriented. 
     For example, one problem-solution pair may match a puzzle piece with a particular location on the base panel  12 , but the viewable image is such that it could be placed in more than one orientation. Imagine a skyline image with a fair amount of blue sky. The puzzle pieces that make up the blue sky might be oriented in a number of positions and still present a blue partial image that fits within the overall puzzle. But the image could be sufficiently abstract in design that the orientation of the piece mattered, but it could still be difficult to assess the proper orientation by merely looking at the image face of puzzle piece. The further challenge is then to orient the puzzle piece using a second or even third set of problem-solution pairs presented. One half of the problem-solution pairs may be placed along one edge of the back of one puzzle piece, and the corresponding other half may be placed along one edge of the back of another puzzle piece so that the edges are placed adjacent to each other. 
     It should be noted that one advantageous feature of presenting problem-solution pairs where one-half of the pair is on a base or bottom panel and the corresponding other half is on the appropriate puzzle piece is that the bottom panel may be replaced with another panel that presents different problem-solution pair halves that still correspond. It can be appreciated that an “answer” can correspond with a variety of different questions. For example, if the answer in a problem-solution pair were a particular year, numerous events may have occurred in that year such that each event presents a different question half of the problem-solution pair that corresponds to that answer. The same is true of countries, or persons, or almost any answer that reflects multi-faceted aspects. Thus, some embodiments contemplated herein include a source of alternative base panels that can be interchanged to add a sense of novelty to the puzzle building experience, and enhances the educational aspect as well. Such a source might be a plurality of hard copy sheets that can serve as the base panel, or electronic storage media from which alternative base panel sheets can be printed out. 
     It is contemplated that the subject matter for the problem-solution pairs can comprise a variety of topics and grade levels, but could be related to standards-based test curriculum for different subjects by grade level (e.g.: forth grade U.S. history, second grade mathematics, third grade natural science). If desired, the picture created by the proper alignment of the pieces could be an image or multiple images related to the theme of the problem-solution pairs. Such challenging puzzles not only provide an entertaining past time, but can reinforce early learning and improve test taking skills by offering a multiple-choice answer field that can be narrowed by a process of elimination (e.g. dates, people, places, events) as well as other test taking skill methods. 
     In one embodiment of the present invention, the challenge can be further enhanced by adding a temporal aspect. For example, a time keeping device can be provided, whether integrated into the puzzle base or not, to determine elapsed time required to complete the puzzle and a signaling device to indicate when the time to complete the puzzle has expired. 
     Certain embodiments may also comprise a system employing a signaling feedback loop for indicating when the appropriate solution has been matched to a particular problem. Such feedback loop may comprise electronically-based sensors on the base that interface with a receiver on the corresponding puzzle piece designed to be placed on or adjacent the sensor. The sensor circuit may be configured such that each piece is electrically detected for its proper position, whereby the user receives feedback as to the appropriateness of each puzzle piece position after it is placed. Or, the sensor circuit may be configured such that a signal is generated only when all pieces are properly placed, activating so to speak when the last piece is properly placed into position. With either embodiment, the completion of the puzzle may be detected and feedback provided to the user. In one embodiment, the feedback may be a simple short audible tone, such as a beep or ring, sufficient to let the user know that the puzzle has been completed properly. In the alternative, the feedback may be a more exciting emanation of light that brightens the puzzle from within, such as a 3-dimensional globe puzzle being lit to show global features, including optionally names of oceans, continents or other geographic features. Still other embodiments might project sound in the form of music or voices, such as a Star Wars® death star puzzle that, when completed, plays the theme from Star Wars®. Of course, multiple feedback forms may be combined. The world of possibilities for feedback to the user is almost endless to present whimsical or informative light and/or sound. 
     It should be appreciated that some embodiments, such as that shown in  FIGS. 1 through 3  may be configured in a flat arrangement, but could also take on three-dimensional arrangements as well. Indeed, the resulting three-dimensional puzzle could resemble an identifiable item associated with the theme of the problem-solution pairs. For example, the problem-solution pairs could be geographical in nature, with the resulting puzzle forming a globe, or a continent. Another example might be where the problem-solution pairs are cultural in nature, maybe associated with a particular country, with the resulting puzzle forming a famous icon associated with that culture or country (e.g., Eiffel Tower, Leaning Tower of Pisa, etc.) 
     Although not shown, it is contemplated that the puzzle base may comprise a geometric configuration in which the outside surface displays a plurality of one-half of the problem-solution pairs. For example, the base may be configured in a semi-spherical shape, although a variety of other possibilities in configuration are contemplated. The base may be further configured to permit corresponding pieces bearing the other half of the problem-solution pair to reside on the base in a manner so as not to fall off. The adjacent puzzle pieces may also be interlocking to further enhance structural integrity of the puzzle. It is contemplated that the bottom of the three-dimensional base have a surface sufficiently strong to withstand the weight of the completed puzzle on a table or floor or other supporting surface. It is also contemplated that the interlocking puzzle piece configuration serve to support the completed puzzle to some degree, if not completely, where, in one embodiment, it is required that the puzzle be built from the ground up so to speak, with the higher pieces supported by the lower pieces. 
     For embodiments having a three-dimensional configuration, arrangements and configurations are possible. For example, in another three-dimensional embodiment, the puzzle comprises a plurality of three-dimensional geometric components or modules that are configured to be placed adjacent to each other as defined by corresponding problem-solution pairs. As with the two-dimensional arrangement, one half of the problem-solution pairs can reside on a base panel upon which the modules can be placed to form an image, or one half of the problem-solution pairs can reside on a side of the geometric modules that face adjacent modules, or a combination of both, as referenced above in Paragraph [0020], and explained further below in the context of a three-dimensional embodiment. 
     In one example, the three-dimensional geometric components comprise discrete cubes, each having the normal six sides, although other geometric configurations would be acceptable as well. Referring to  FIG. 4 , one embodiment of a three-dimensional puzzle  110  comprises a plurality of cube members or pieces  112 , each having six sides  114 . In one arrangement, three of the cube piece sides  114  comprises parts of images  116   a ,  116   b  and  116   c , and the other three cube piece sides  114  comprising halves of problem-solution pairs  120 ,  122 . For example, assuming all cube pieces are oriented similarly (i.e., having a top, front, bottom, back and two sides—left and right—surfaces), the top surface  116   a  of each cube  112  may comprise a single image, with each cube surface forming a part of the image in a puzzle-like arrangement. Similarly, the front surface  116   b  of each cube  112  may comprise a single but different image, and the bottom surface  116   c  comprising yet a third single but different image. Depending upon how the problem-solution pairs are arranged or defined, it may be desired for the user to form one of the three images or another. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , another embodiment of the three-dimensional cube-shaped puzzle of  FIG. 4  may be explained with additional particularity. The three-dimensional puzzle  210  comprises a plurality of modules  212  (only one cube-shaped module is shown) and a base or bottom panel  214  for placement of the modules  212  thereupon. The bottom panel  214  comprises a plurality of module positions  216  indicative of where individual modules are intended to be placed. Although this particular embodiment shows a grid arrangement, other arrangements, whether geometrical or fanciful, are contemplated. The cube-shaped module  212  comprises six surfaces  218 , at some of which comprise either one-half of a problem-solution pair or part of an image. In this particular embodiment, the module  212  comprises three problem-solution pair halves  220 ,  222 ,  224 , each indicating—for example—a year in which a noteworthy event occurred. The year of surface  220  is intended to correspond with module position  228  on the base panel  214 . Likewise, surface  222  of the cube-shaped module corresponds to the module position  230  and surface  224  corresponds to position  232 . 
     As is shown in  FIG. 5 , each module presents portions of three possible images, with the particular desired image being presented based upon which problem-solution pair is matched. So for this example, when surface  220  is placed on corresponding module position  228 , partial viewable image  240  is presented outwardly. Likewise, when module surface  222  is placed on corresponding module position  230 , partial viewable image  242  is presented outwardly When module surface  224  is placed on corresponding module position  232 , partial viewable image  244  is presented outwardly. This arrangement permits the possibility of multiple puzzles using the same game components. It should be understood that each module would present different problem-solution pair halves so that the appropriate module surface  218  of module  212  is placed on the appropriate module position  216  of base panel  214 . But as alluded to above, the orientation of the module might be further restricted based upon a second or third problem-solution pair presented by adjacent surfaces of adjacent cube-shaped modules (although not shown particularly in  FIG. 5 ). 
     Of course, with such a three-dimensional concept, the individual members or modules of the three-dimensional puzzle may comprise other geometrical shapes that permit adjacent placement to form a coherent viewable image, even an image that is not in a single flat plane as in the embodiment of  FIG. 4 . It is contemplated, for example, that the individual puzzle pieces or members may comprise tetrahedrals, with a pointed end all facing toward a center so that the base of each tetrahedral faces outwardly in a spherical arrangement. Depending upon which sides of the tetrahedrals comprise which halves of the problem-solution pairs, the image displayed may be different in each case. 
     Regardless of whether the puzzle is two-dimensional or three-dimensional, it can be appreciated that a problem-solution pair has almost infinite possibilities, not only in subject matter, but in format and presentation. For example, instead of questions and answers enabling the proper placement of the puzzle pieces on the puzzle board, at least some embodiments may comprise pieces that have pictures, symbols, numbers and the like, whereby such indicia can be matched to a corresponding picture, number or symbol on the puzzle board or adjacent piece. Such embodiments do not require the ability to read and can be used to teach and practice pre-school skills without parental participation. Ideal subject matter for this embodiment may include: alphabet, counting, colors, opposites, telling time, money and sequencing. Trivia is almost always a source of entertainment. 
     It should be noted that the desired puzzle need not require engagement of all of the provided plurality of puzzle pieces. It could be that there are duplicate pieces in size, shape and configuration where alternative solutions are provided to enhance the challenge so that each “solution” piece might fit within its corresponding “problem” location, but the resulting image is incorrect. Other variety of outcomes is also contemplated that enhance the mental challenge to the puzzle game. As described above, for three-dimensional puzzles, the individual puzzle pieces may be configured not to engage each other, but to engage the base in stable detachability. 
     Yet another set of embodiments of the present invention comprises a puzzle presented entirely in graphic form on a computer, accessible through the internet or from software usable on a computer. In other words, a virtual puzzle is contemplated whereby the individual pieces, their surfaces with either partial images and/or problem-solution pair halves and/or a base also with problem-solution pair halves are digitally rendered via software suitable for presentation on an electronic device, such as—but not limited to—a computer, a personal digital assistant, cellphone, XBox, DS, iPod, iPad, or any other electronic device capable of operating and/or storing software designed to display a puzzle as described herein, whereby the user may build the puzzle as described herein and enjoy the problem-solution aspects thereof, such that the surfaces, images and problem-solution pairs are presented visually for user interface and manipulation. Indeed, the puzzle games, as with many electronic games, may be accessible remotely from a publicly accessible storage media, e.g., server, so that an individual user might enjoy the game, or multiple remote users might do so together. Indeed, the variety of possible puzzle piece configurations and problem-solution pairs becomes almost unlimited, with the user having the capability to vary the puzzle between a two-dimensional and three-dimensional form, vary the problem-solution pairs, vary the image that is completed by assembling the puzzle pieces, and even varying the geometric form of the three-dimensional modules that are placed together to form the desired image. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6A through 6D , yet another example of an electronic embodiment is described reflecting added enhanced sensory feedback to solving the puzzle. In this particular embodiment, the puzzle  310  comprises a piece support base  312  itself comprising a plurality of, in this example, problem stations  314  positioned around the piece support base  312 . Puzzle  310  is three-dimensional in this embodiment with a generally spherical geometry. Of course other shapes may be used, if so desired, and still exhibit the inventive qualities described herein. Associated with each of the problem stations  314  is one or more detector  316  for detecting when the problem station has been matched with the correct puzzle piece. In the embodiment, the puzzle  310  further comprises a plurality of puzzle pieces  318  (see  FIGS. 6A and 6D ) that are configured to rest cleanly on the corresponding problem stations when positioned properly. On the back of each puzzle piece  318  is a solution  320  to one of the problems presented in one of the problem stations  314 . This solution permits the user to match the puzzle piece  318  to the corresponding problem station  314  on the piece support base  312 . The solutions  320  are shown in  FIG. 6C  looking from the inside of the piece support base  312 , as compared to the  FIG. 6D , which shows the piece support base  312  looking from the outside. So for example, problem station  314   a  is designed to match with piece  318   a  having solution  320   a  and module  324   a  thereon. Moreover, problem station  314   b  ( FIG. 6B ), which states “How Many Countries Are There?”, corresponds to puzzle piece  318   b  ( FIG. 6D ) that has solution  320   b  on the back, which states “195”. 
     The solutions  320  are arranged to illustrate one example of a plurality of problem-solution pairs, as may be appreciated by comparing  FIG. 6C  with  FIG. 6D . On the back of each puzzle piece  318  is also a module  324  for permitting detection by the detectors  316  on the piece support base  312 . Preferably, each module  324  is unique to the particular puzzle piece so that the detectors  316  can detect whether the piece  318  is in its proper place. Proper placement may be signaled by the actuation of a light and/or sound provided, as described below. 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 6C , a truncated sphere is provided as a puzzle system. With such an arrangement, the firmware for controlling the detection system, as well as the generator and control for the light and/or sound output, could all be housed within the interior of the piece support base  312 . Other arrangements are contemplated, of course. For example, in the case of the system  310  of  FIGS. 6A-6D , the balance of the truncated spherical base may be provided in the form of a single piece  326  connectable to the piece support base  312  via a connection means  328 , where the piece  326  is configured to rest within a semi-spherical surface  320  of a puzzle support base  332 . The piece  326  may itself comprise a plurality of pieces that integrate together to complement the piece support base  312 . Of course, it should be appreciated that where other 3-dimensional geometries are used for the piece support base  312  (and corresponding pieces  318 ), such a cubes, boxes, cylinders, tetrahedrals, cones, etc., other configurations of truncated bases and complementary pieces are contemplated to reflect such alternative geometries. 
     The puzzle base  332  is preferably configured to house the components necessary to operate and control the detection system and generate any light and/or sound output, including a circuit board with controller  336 , power supply  338 , and speaker  340 . The position of the light bulb (or bulbs) may be anywhere within the piece support base  312  and/or within the puzzle support base  332 . For example, an alternative embodiment may incorporate a small bulb or LED at each problem position within the piece support base where illumination occurs upon proper placement of a piece, with yet a different bulb or LED illuminated upon proper completion of the entire puzzle. Or an embodiment may only use some or all of the above. The realm of possible sounds is virtually endless, where the controller within the system generating a pleasing sound upon each placement of a piece joining the proper problem-solution pair, or a sound simply upon completion of the entire puzzle. The sounds may be themed to correspond with the visual image presented by the puzzle as well. For example, where a puzzle comprises problem-solution trivia relating to the Star Wars® movies, successful completion of the puzzle may lead to the generation of the Star Wars Theme music, the voice of James Earl Jones conveying a congratulatory sentiment, or some other sounds relevant to the genre of the puzzle. The system may be configured so that when incorrect placement of a puzzle piece (or multiple pieces) occurs the system either generates no light or sound, or generates a light or sound different than what is generated for correct placement. The senses may be enhanced in one or more of numerous possible ways to complement the educational and/or entertaining nature of the inventive puzzles presented herein via a few exemplary embodiments. 
     It is important to note that a three-dimensional puzzle of the inventive forms described herein need not have an independent base upon which to build a puzzle. The three-dimensional structure itself may be configured sufficiently sturdy to support itself in a buildable fashion. For example, referring to  FIG. 7A , yet another embodiment of a three-dimensional puzzle  410  comprises a plurality of discrete puzzle pieces  412  each having three-dimensional configurations capable of being engagingly joined together to form a desired or recognizable shape. In the example illustrated in  FIG. 7A , the three-dimensional puzzle is a dinosaur. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7A and 7B , the puzzle pieces  412  each comprises a plurality of surfaces, with at least one engagement surface  414  defining an interface to an adjacent piece and at least one shape surface  416  defining part of the completed puzzle shape. Each engagement surface preferably has a means  420  for permitting detachable engagement to an adjacent piece that can be one of many configurations and designs. In the example illustrated in  FIGS. 7A and 7B , the engagement means  420  comprises at least one but possibly more projections  422  that fit within complementary depressions  424  in adjacent pieces. The engagement means may include optional locking functionality, if so desired, but it is not critical with many contemplated shapes. 
     It is contemplated that, depending upon the relative position of a particular puzzle piece  412  within the puzzle  410 , the piece may have two or three engagement surfaces  414 , for example, when the particular piece is an interior piece, such as pieces  412   a  or  412   b . Where the desired resulting puzzle shape is rectilinear, then at least some of the pieces would have multiple shape surfaces. For example, as described above with the embodiments illustrated by example in  FIG. 4 , each piece has several engagement and shape surfaces. The number of possible arrangements is vast given the number of possible puzzle shapes, the number of pieces desired for the puzzle to create the shape, and the manufactured placement of the pieces within the puzzle. 
     As with the other embodiments described above, the exemplary embodiment of  FIGS. 7A and 7B  reflect an entertaining plurality of pieces  412  having problem-solution pairs. It is envisioned, for example, that each engagement surface  414  comprises at least one part of a problem-solution pair to assist the user in identifying the adjacent piece, which preferably has an engagement surface with the corresponding other part of the problem-solution pair. In a three-dimensional puzzle such as illustrated in  FIGS. 7A and 7B , some pieces  412  with more than two engagement surfaces  414  may have multiple parts of different problem-solution pieces; i.e., one or two problems on some of the engagement surfaces and one or two solutions to different problems on other of the engagement surfaces. The variety of possibilities increase where some of pieces have identical shapes, making it more difficult for the user to ascertain the correct adjacent piece to place into position without solving each of the corresponding problem-solution pairs. 
     Although not shown in  FIG. 7A , a related embodiment of a three-dimensional self-standing puzzle may comprise an electronic variation having, for example, a hollow interior space that permits containment of components that serve to sense and control the placement of pieces in order to signal to the user when appropriate pieces are properly in place and/or when the puzzle is completed properly. As with the exemplary embodiments of  FIGS. 6A-6D , appropriate detectors associated with sensors in some or all of the puzzle pieces may be employed. For example, referring to  FIG. 7B , a sensor  430  may be provided on an engagement surface  414  that detects a corresponding module  432  on an engagement surface of an adjacent piece  412  for detecting when the two pieces are adjoined properly. With an electronic embodiment, each of the pieces, or just some of the pieces, may be provided with a detector-module mechanism to alert the user to proper positioning of some of the pieces or proper completion of the puzzle. Such a mechanism is particularly useful where there are some puzzle pieces having an identical or similar shape, where it becomes incumbent upon the user to find the correct solution to the problem shown on the puzzle piece at issue. 
     If so desired, a separate base (not shown) may also be employed on which to position the puzzle. Such a base may provide close an electrical circuit for signaling completion of the puzzle, or may simply provide a working platform upon which to build the puzzle and transport it to another location in an uncompleted or completed form. As with the embodiment of  FIGS. 6A-6D , a wired or wireless system may be employed as well so the an interior space need not be provided, but where the sensing and control components may be contained outside the three-dimensional puzzle. 
     Given the difficulty of presenting all of the various possibilities contemplated by the invention described herein, the measure and scope of the invention should be based upon the claims as presented below and should not be limited by the few exemplary embodiments presented herein.