Speedsolving.com Wiki - User contributions [en]

Cuboid

2012-03-24T23:49:06Z

Ernie722:

''A '''cuboid''' is a rectangular puzzle that is not a power of 3 (NxNxN), usally two of the axis are dived the same and the third one is diffrent but more uncommon types can have all three diffrent, like 2x3x4.

The most common puzzle in this group is [[Rubik's Domino]] that is dived in 3x3x2 pieces.

some other types:
* '''1x1x2''', some people made their own for fun, not a puzzle really.
* '''2x2x2''', domino style, easy.
* '''2x2x3''', mini tower easy.
* '''2x2x4''', like a double 2x2x2 domino but much more fun.
* '''3x3x2''', [[Rubik's Domino]]
* '''3x3x4''', the double domino, really nice and the closest you can get to a standard [[3x3x3]] in complexity.
* '''3x3x5''', '''3x3x7''', both are available in cubic shaped apparences.

==External links:==
* [http://sites.google.com/site/rectangularcuboids/ Kenneth's guide to cuboids]

[[category:Twisty Puzzles]]
[[Category:Cubing Terminology]]

{{Stub}}

Maru

2011-10-22T19:21:08Z

Ernie722: /* 4x4x4 Cube */

{{Manufacturer
|NAME=Maru
|LOGO=Maru.png
|YEARFOUNDED
|LOCATION=Taiwan
|YEARSACTIVE
|AREASSERVED=Worldwide
|WEBSITE=http://maru.tw
|PRODUCTS=2x2x2, 3x3x3, Mini 3x3x3
}}

Taiwanese puzzle manufacturer.

== Products ==

=== 2x2x2 Cube ===
Contain a screw-spring structure similar to the Lanlan 2x2 which improves corner cutting greatly. However, they are said not to turn as well as a well broken in [[Eastsheen 2x2x2]]. The Maru turns extremly well though and is unlikely to pop. Very high quality cube.

{|
|[[Image:Maru_2x2x2.jpg|none|thumb|Maru 2x2x2]]
|      
|

== Where to buy: ==
* Lightake.com Black: [http://www.lightake.com/detail.do/sku.2x2_XWH_Spring_Screw_Magic_Intelligence_Test_Cube_Black-25570]
* Lightake.com White: [http://www.lightake.com/detail.do/sku.2x2_XWH_Spring_Screw_Magic_Intelligence_Test_Cube_White-25571]
|}

=== 3x3x3 Cube ===
Also called the 'Maru DIY'. Comes in a range of colours, and is reported to have smooth turning. Out of the box, this cube seems to be nothing special, but once lubed with the special Maru lubricant, it will quickly become an amazing speedcube.
{|
| [[Image:Maru_3x3x3.jpg|none|thumb|Maru 3x3x3]]

 
|           
|
Score:
 Resistance to pops: 10
 Resistance to lock ups: 9
 Ability to cut corners: 9.5
 Speed: 8
 Average score: 8
 Overall score: A
 Weight: 3 ounces Average weight.
 Need to break in: No
 Feel: Crispy, Quiet
 Best Tension: Tight
 Lube: The Maru lube.

=== 4x4x4 Cube===
Known for its amazing corner cutting this Maru 4x4 is rarely found in common online stores. It has a screw/spring structure like all maru cubes and it is superior at corner cutting. It outperformes most 4x4 today such as the rubiks brand, eastsheen and possibly the merfferts brand from people's opinion. It has minimal pops and lockups but disassembly is not recommended because the assembly of this item can be very tedious.

{|
[[Image:Maru 4x4x4.jpg|none|thumb|Maru 4x4x4 with Lubricant and Stand]]

|}

== Where to buy: ==

Maru 4x4x4 Lightake Black: [http://www.lightake.com/detail.do/sku.29885~C.12332011TXFCIVEFR!]

Maru 4x4x4 Lightake Transparent [http://www.lightake.com/detail.do/sku.29886~C.12332011TXFCIVEFR!]

Maru 4x4x4 DealExtreme White [http://www.dealextreme.com/p/high-quality-speedy-4x4x4-brain-teaser-rotating-magic-puzzle-cube-with-display-base-39932]

Maru 4x4x4 DealExtreme black [http://www.dealextreme.com/p/high-quality-speedy-4x4x4-brain-teaser-rotating-magic-puzzle-cube-with-display-base-39853]

Includes:

Maru 4x4x4 Box and Cube

4x4 stand

A Vial of maru lubricant

=== Mini 3x3x3 ===
A very small cube measuring 30mm each side. It is reported by many to be too small for speedcubing, but may suit cubers with very small hands. Small enough to fit comfortably in a pocket, making it ideal as a travel cube. The cube its self is fairly good quality considering its size, with smooth turning and good resistance to pops.
[[Image:Mini_maru.jpg|none|thumb|Maru Mini Cube]]

== Where to Buy: ==

http://www.dealextreme.com/p/maru-mini-3x3x3-brain-teaser-magic-iq-cube-20017

Lightake is out of stock

== See Also ==
* [[2x2x2 Cubes]]
* [[3x3x3 Cubes]]
* [[Mini Cubes]]
* [[Puzzle Hardware]]

== External Links ==
* http://maru.tw
* http://www.marucube.com - international Maru shopping site
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=15839 Maru DIY]
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17594 international orders are now available on maru.tw!]
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17195 maru 2x2 full mechanism picture]
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=16796 Maru Screw/Spring DIY 2x2 review]

[[Category:Puzzle Manufacturers]]
[[Category:Puzzle Shops]]
[[Category:Cubing Terminology]]
{{Stub}}

Maru

2011-07-21T21:36:10Z

Ernie722:

{{Manufacturer
|NAME=Maru
|LOGO=Maru.png
|YEARFOUNDED
|LOCATION=Taiwan
|YEARSACTIVE
|AREASSERVED=Worldwide
|WEBSITE=http://maru.tw
|PRODUCTS=2x2x2, 3x3x3, Mini 3x3x3
}}

Taiwanese puzzle manufacturer.

== Products ==

=== 2x2x2 Cube ===
Contain a screw-spring structure similar to the Lanlan 2x2 which improves corner cutting greatly. However, they are said not to turn as well as a well broken in [[Eastsheen 2x2x2]]. The Maru turns extremly well though and is unlikely to pop. Very high quality cube.

{|
|[[Image:Maru_2x2x2.jpg|none|thumb|Maru 2x2x2]]
|      
|

== Where to buy: ==
* Lightake.com Black: [http://www.lightake.com/detail.do/sku.2x2_XWH_Spring_Screw_Magic_Intelligence_Test_Cube_Black-25570]
* Lightake.com White: [http://www.lightake.com/detail.do/sku.2x2_XWH_Spring_Screw_Magic_Intelligence_Test_Cube_White-25571]
|}

=== 3x3x3 Cube ===
Also called the 'Maru DIY'. Comes in a range of colours, and is reported to have smooth turning. Out of the box, this cube seems to be nothing special, but once lubed with the special Maru lubricant, it will quickly become an amazing speedcube.
{|
| [[Image:Maru_3x3x3.jpg|none|thumb|Maru 3x3x3]]

 
|           
|
Score:
 Resistance to pops: 10
 Resistance to lock ups: 9
 Ability to cut corners: 9.5
 Speed: 8
 Average score: 8
 Overall score: A
 Weight: 3 ounces Average weight.
 Need to break in: No
 Feel: Crispy, Quiet
 Best Tension: Tight
 Lube: The Maru lube.

=== 4x4x4 Cube===
Known for its amasing corner cutting this Maru 4x4 is rarely found in common online stores. It has a screw/spring structure like all maru cubes and it is superior at corner cutting. It outperformes most 4x4 today such as the rubiks brand, eastsheen and possibly the merfferts brand from people's opinion. It has minimal pops and lockups but disassembly is not recommended because the assembly of this item can be very tedious.

{|
[[Image:Maru 4x4x4.jpg|none|thumb|Maru 4x4x4 with Lubricant and Stand]]

|}

== Where to buy: ==

Maru 4x4x4 Lightake Black: [http://www.lightake.com/detail.do/sku.29885~C.12332011TXFCIVEFR!]

Maru 4x4x4 Lightake Transparent [http://www.lightake.com/detail.do/sku.29886~C.12332011TXFCIVEFR!]

Maru 4x4x4 DealExtreme White [http://www.dealextreme.com/p/high-quality-speedy-4x4x4-brain-teaser-rotating-magic-puzzle-cube-with-display-base-39932]

Maru 4x4x4 DealExtreme black [http://www.dealextreme.com/p/high-quality-speedy-4x4x4-brain-teaser-rotating-magic-puzzle-cube-with-display-base-39853]

Includes:

Maru 4x4x4 Box and Cube

4x4 stand

A Vial of maru lubricant

=== Mini 3x3x3 ===
A very small cube measuring 30mm each side. It is reported by many to be too small for speedcubing, but may suit cubers with very small hands. Small enough to fit comfortably in a pocket, making it ideal as a travel cube. The cube its self is fairly good quality considering its size, with smooth turning and good resistance to pops.
[[Image:Mini_maru.jpg|none|thumb|Maru Mini Cube]]

== Where to Buy: ==

http://www.dealextreme.com/p/maru-mini-3x3x3-brain-teaser-magic-iq-cube-20017

Lightake is out of stock

== See Also ==
* [[2x2x2 Cubes]]
* [[3x3x3 Cubes]]
* [[Mini Cubes]]
* [[Puzzle Hardware]]

== External Links ==
* http://maru.tw
* http://www.marucube.com - international Maru shopping site
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=15839 Maru DIY]
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17594 international orders are now available on maru.tw!]
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17195 maru 2x2 full mechanism picture]
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=16796 Maru Screw/Spring DIY 2x2 review]

[[Category:Puzzle Manufacturers]]
[[Category:Puzzle Shops]]
[[Category:Cubing Terminology]]
{{Stub}}

MF8 Megaminx

2011-05-27T21:39:52Z

Ernie722: Created page with "Megaminx"

Megaminx

FAQ

2011-05-23T23:40:35Z

Ernie722: /* How can I get faster? */

== Frequently Asked Questions ==
Feel free to fill in the answers. Link to posts or sites you feel are relevant or provide your own original content.

Do *not* copy other people's content from their sites and simply paste it in here. That's called plagiarism and it's stealing.
=== Cubes ===
==== What is the best cube? ====
It really depends on your personal preference. For DIYs, the most common cubes among the worlds best are the Alpha-V, ShengEn F-II, and the very popular DaYan GuHong or LingYun cubes.

For more information, see the [[Cube Hardware]] page.

==== Where can I buy cubes? ====
You can try [http://www.rubikfans.com: Rubikfans], [http://www.rubiks.com: Rubik's official Store], [http://www.9spuzzles.com: 9spuzzles], [http://www.puzl.co.uk: puzl.co.uk ], [http://www.cube4you.com: Cube4You], [http://cubefans.com/: Cubefan's], or other places such as ebay. Cubefans and Cube4You are the same store, it's just that Cube4You works best on Internet Explorer. For specialty products, try [http://www.mefferts.com/: Meffert's] and the [https://v-cubes.com/ecom/home.php?cat=248: V Cube shop]. Also, it's a good idea to check some garage sales or flea markets, as puzzles have been found for much cheaper than actual value.

Be aware that buying "knock-offs" (illegal copies of currently patented puzzles) is frowned upon by many forum members. A "[[Knock-Off Policy|knock-off policy]]" is currently under discussion.

@ See [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=15237 speedsolving.com discussion]

==== How do I lubricate my cube? ====
You can either take a piece or two out and spray the lubricant in directly, or disassemble and fully spray the lubricant on every piece with sweeps. There are many tutorials in youtube if you need help. Also, check youtube for techniques to lubricate big cubes.

The best lubricants tend to be silicone based. Products like Jig-a-Loo and CRC Heavy Duty Silicone spray are very popular among cubers. There is a lubricant made specially for cubing which can be bought at [http://stores.shop.ebay.com/PuzzleProz Puzzleproz]. You should never use WD-40 lube on your cube as it contains petroleum distillates which can damage the plastic. Some people do use petroleum jelly to break in really stiff cubes such as storeboughts, but it should never be used as lube.

For more info on lubricants see the [[lubrication]] page.

==== How do I keep my screws from unscrewing when I turn the Cube? ====
Several options:
# Replace the core
# Replace the screws
# Glue or locktite them in place
==== Textured or Smooth Tiles? ====
Both of them are durable, so if you are looking for a more permanent replacement for your stickers, this is the way to go.

As for which type, it's all in your preference. Textured will have more of a grip which can help if you have sweaty, oily, moist, etc. hands since it will keep it from slipping too much.

Smooth, however, does still have texture. It just so happens to have a little bit less, so if you don't want something quite as bumpy, get the smooth tiles.

=== Notation ===
==== What does <insert some notation here> mean? ====
The official notation of the World Cube Association can be found here: [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/regulations/#notation]

Wikipedia also has a description of the notation in a different format: [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rubik%27s_Cube#Move_notation]

There are many other references on the Net, try googling "rubik cube notation" if you don't like either of the above.
Here's a page with pictures: http://www.cubewhiz.com/notation.html

==== The notation I'm asking about isn't in the WCA regulations, how do I decipher how to turn it? ====
Some older notation used "w" for a wide turn, so Rw would be the same as r in WCA notation.
(This topic can be added to)

==== The notation I'm asking about came from a Japanese cuber site, how do I decipher these also? ====
Japanese cubers commonly use a different notation for cube rotations. (r) means to rotate the entire cube in the direction you would make an R turn. Similarly, (u') would be the same as a y rotation.

=== Timers ===
==== Where can I buy a timer like they use in competition? ====
* [http://www.speedstacks.com: speedstacks.com] is probably the most reliable source for timers, but they only ship to the US and Canada.
* [http://www.cube4you.com/catalog_23.html cube4you.com]
* [http://www.kidology.org/store/catalog.asp?item=1168&category=103 kidology.org]
* [http://www.puzl.co.uk/stackmat-speedcubing-timer-p-210.html puzl.co.uk]
* [http://www.ebay.com: eBay] sometimes you can find a cheap deal.
It's also possible to make your own timer [http://grrroux.free.fr/workshop/workshop.html].

@ see related threads on forum [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=9624 here] and [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=6333 here].

==== Are there timers on the Internet? ====
Yes.

Try [http://www.cubetimer.com Cubetimer], [http://www.rubetimer.com Rubetimer], or look for other timers. Also, [http://www.cubemania.com Cubemania] is a site that times and keeps track of all the solves you submit. The [[Web-based Software]] Wiki page also has up-to-date info on online timers.

==== Can I download a timer for my computer/phone/psp? ====
You can download CCT [http://cube.garron.us/cct/] for your computer. This is the timer that is very popular with many features like being able to connect a speedstacks timer with a data port to the computer and use it with CCT. Another great timer is [http://www.strangepuzzle.com/jnetcube.html JNet Cube].

Prisma Puzzle Timer (PPT) is a very good timer that is becoming more and more popular. This timer gives graphs, and other data charts for sessions. You can find all of it's features in the forum discussion [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?25790-Prisma-Puzzle-Timer here] and on the website [https://bitbucket.org/walter/puzzle-timer/ here]

For your phone, if it has a built in timer, then use that. If you don't then you probably won't be able to time yourself. However, if you have an iPhone or iPod Touch, then you're in luck. There is an app that times your solves called "iCube Timer".

Note that for solves that take more than 15 seconds, a simple analog clock will work just fine if you don't need precise timing.

==== Where can I find a scramble generator? ====
Most timers (customized for cubing) come preset with scrambles.
If your timer does not have scrambles, you can use [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/regulations/#scrambling this page] to find a scramble generator for your puzzle. The [[Web-based Software]] Wiki page also has up-to-date info on online scramblers.

==== What is standard deviation? ====
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standard_deviation
In probability theory and statistics, standard deviation is a measure of the variability or dispersion of a population, a data set, or a probability distribution. A low standard deviation indicates that the data points tend to be very close to the same value (the mean), while high standard deviation indicates that the data are spread out over a large range of values.

=== Competitions ===
==== Where are the rules for WCA competitions? ====
On the [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/regulations/ WCA site] of course!

==== How fast do I need to be to compete? ====
There's no requirement for speed to participate in most competitions. Even high level competitions like the US Nationals are open to all, if you see a time listed for "prequalification", this is a time that allows you to skip the qualifying round. If you are slower than that time you will still be allowed to take part in the qualifications.

If you have the opportunity to attend a competition, even if you're not very fast, most experienced competitors would advise you to go for the social interaction and experience.

=== Methods ===
==== What is the fastest method? ====
There is no ''ultimate method'', its really down to personal preference. The most popular [[3x3x3 Speedcubing Methods | speedcubing method]] is currently Fridrich, although other methods such as [[Petrus]], [[Roux]] and [[ZZ]] are rising in popularity. [[Fridrich]] is currently used by many of the top speedcubers, and is as such believed to be the fastest method. However, others attribute this to its popularity. The most obvious/natural progression from the [[beginner LBL]] method is Fridrich, which may explain its popularity. Being the most popular means it gains the most support and development, and is also more likely to be adopted by a talented cuber. More info can be found in the [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum speedsolving forums], where this often comes up as topic of debate.

==== What is the easiest method? ====
The easiest [[Complete Method List | method]] to learn is probably the beginner's [[layer-by-layer]] (LBL) method in which you solve the first, second, and the finally the last layer one by one. It's pretty basic, therefore easy to learn. However, this method however is relatively inefficient and is hard to achieve good times with. Other [[3x3x3 Beginner Methods | beginner]] methods exist, focusing on lower numbers of algorithms and/or more intuitive solving. Compared to the others, the [[LBL]] method has the easiest transition to the popular [[Fridrich]] speedcubing method.

==== What is the method that uses the fewest moves? ====
The most popular method for Fewest Moves solving is the [[Petrus]] method. Although it is designed for speed, it tends to have a very good move efficiency compared to other methods. The [[Heise]] method is another method that was designed specifically for move efficiency rather than speed. It is highly intuitive and very difficult to master. Other methods can be still be made efficient if you plan your moves carefully.
More info on FM can be found on the [[Fewest Moves]] page.

==== Should I learn algorithms for F2L or learn it intuitively? ====
That is entirely your choice. Learning the algs isn't entirely hard since most cases can be seen and understood by practicing the algorithms. Intuitively, it will take practice to be able to do with speed and efficiency.

Most people choose to learn intuitively and with some practice, it can be just as fast. Intuitive F2L is may take more time to master but it is generally preferred because it allows for the use of advanced speed-reducing techniques such as multislotting and the use of empty slots.

==== How can I get faster? ====
Practice, practice, practice. That is the key way to get speed. Normally, with some work, your times will gradually drop without you doing anything.

If you haven't, try learning an advanced method. That should help you lower your times considerably.

Work on lowering your move count, look ahead and experiment with tricks.

Learn new algorithms.

Unglue your eyes from your computer screen, pick up your puzzle, and try to get faster. :p

==== I think I invented a new method, did I? ====
Probably not. If you haven't studied and don't fully understand the concepts behind all the major solving methods (CFOP, Petrus, Roux, ZZ, Waterman) and know the basic philosophy of the advanced variations (MGLS, ZB, Heise) then don't even bother asking.

=== Miscellaneous ===
==== Should I make a new web site about cubing? ====
Probably not unless you're actually going to provide something fresh and new and not just rehash the information already available on the 'net.
@see the Wiki [[Cubing Sites | list of cubing sites]]

==== What does AUF mean? ====
Adjust U Face
==== What does XXX mean? ====
Macky created a great glossary of cubing terms. This is a great first stop if you see a term or abbrevation you don't understand.
http://cubefreak.net/other/glossary.html

== See Also ==
* [[Main Page]]
* [[General Information]]
* [[Puzzle Theory]]
* [[Puzzle Notation]]
* [[Puzzle Hardware]]
* [[Cubing Terminology]]
* [[Methods]]

[[Category:Cubing Resources]]

General Information

2011-05-23T23:35:48Z

Ernie722: /* Competitions and record times */

The [[Rubik's Cube]] is a mechanical [[puzzle]] invented in 1974 by Hungarian sculptor and professor of architecture [[Ernő Rubik]]. Originally called the "Magic Cube" by its inventor, this puzzle was renamed "Rubik's Cube" by [[Ideal Toys]] in 1980 and won the German Game of the Year special award for Best Puzzle that year. It is said to be the world's best-selling toy, with over 300,000,000 Rubik's Cubes and imitations sold worldwide.

In a classic Rubik's Cube, each of the six [[face]]s is covered by 9 [[sticker]]s, among six solid colours (traditionally being white, yellow, orange, red, blue, and green). A pivot mechanism enables each face to turn independently, thus mixing up the colours. For the puzzle to be [[solve]]d, each face must be a solid colour.

The Cube celebrated its twenty-fifth anniversary in 2005, when a special edition was released, featuring a sticker in the centre of the reflective face (which replaced the white face) with a "Rubik's Cube 1980-2005" logo, and different packaging. There exist four widely available variations: the [[2×2×2]] (Pocket Cube, also Mini Cube, Junior Cube, or Ice Cube), the standard [[3×3×3]] cube, the [[4×4×4]] (Rubik's Revenge, or Master Cube), and the [[5×5×5]] (Professor's Cube). Recently, larger sizes are also on the market ([[V-Cube 6]] and [[V-Cube 7]]). All of these items belong to a broad category of puzzles commonly referred to as "[[twisty puzzle]]s".

For readability, 3x3x3 is frequently abbreviated 3×3 (and similarly for the other sizes) when there is no ambiguity. Common misspellings include "rubix cube", "rubics cube", "rubick's cube", and "rubiks cube".

== Conception and development ==
In March 1970, Larry Nichols invented a 2×2×2 "Puzzle with Pieces Rotatable in Groups" and filed a Canadian patent application for it. Nichols's cube was held together with magnets. Nichols was granted (US patent|3655201) on April 11, 1972, two years before Rubik invented his improved cube.

On April 9, 1970, Frank Fox applied to patent his "Spherical 3×3×3". He received his UK patent (1344259) on January 16, 1974.

Rubik invented his "[[wikt:magic cube|Magic Cube]]" in 1974 and obtained Hungarian patent HU170062 for the Magic Cube in 1975 but did not take out international patents. The first test batches of the product were produced in late 1977 and released to Budapest toy shops. Magic Cube was held together with interlocking plastic pieces that were less expensive to produce than the magnets in Nichols's design. In September 1979, a deal was signed with Ideal Toys to bring the Magic Cube to the Western world, and the puzzle made its international debut at the toy fairs of London, Paris, Nuremberg International Toy Fair|Nuremberg and New York in January and February 1980.

After its international debut, the progress of the Cube towards the toy shop shelves of the West was briefly halted so that it could be manufactured to Western safety and packaging specifications. A lighter Cube was produced, and Ideal Toys decided to rename it. "Gordian Knot|The Gordian Knot" and "Inca Gold" were considered, but the company finally decided on "Rubik's Cube", and the first batch was exported from Hungary in May 1980. Taking advantage of an initial shortage of Cubes, many cheap imitations appeared.

Nichols assigned his patent to his employer Moleculon Research Corp., which sued Ideal Toy Company in 1982. In 1984, Ideal lost the patent infringement suit and appealed. In 1986, the appeals court affirmed the judgment that Rubik's 2×2×2 Pocket Cube infringed Nichols's patent, but overturned the judgment on Rubik's 3×3×3 Cube.

Even while Rubik's patent application was being processed, Terutoshi Ishigi, a self-taught engineer and ironworks owner near Tokyo, filed for a Japanese patent for a nearly identical mechanism and was granted patent JP55‒8192 (1976); Ishigi's is generally accepted as an independent reinvention.

Rubik applied for another Hungarian patent on October 28, 1980, and applied for other patents. In the United States, Rubik was granted US patent #4378116 on March 29, 1983, for the Cube.

Greek inventor Panagiotis Verdes patented a method of creating cubes beyond the 5×5×5, up to [[11×11×11]]. His designs, which include improved mechanisms for the [[3×3×3]], [[4×4×4]], and [[5×5×5]], are suitable for [[speedcubing]], whereas existing designs for cubes larger than 5×5×5 are prone to break. As of June 19, 2008, 5x5x5, [[6x6x6]], and [[7x7x7]] models are available ([http://www.v-cubes.com/ V-Cube Official Site].

==Workings==

A standard cube measures approximately 2¼ inches (5.7 cm) on each side. The puzzle consists of the twenty-six unique miniature cubes on the surface. However, the centre cube of each face is merely a single square façade; all are affixed to the core mechanisms. These provide structure for the other pieces to fit into and rotate around. So there are twenty-one pieces: a single [[core]] piece consisting of three intersecting axes holding the six [[centre]] squares in place but letting them rotate, and twenty smaller plastic pieces which fit into it to form the assembled puzzle. The Cube can be taken apart without much difficulty, typically by turning one side through a 45° angle and prying an [[edge]] cube away from a centre cube until it dislodges. However, as prying loose a [[corner]] cube is a good way to break off a centre cube — thus ruining the Cube — it is far safer to lever a centre cube out using a screwdriver. It is a very simple process to solve a Cube by taking it apart and reassembling it in a solved state. There are twelve edge pieces which show two coloured sides each, and eight corner pieces which show three colours. Each piece shows a unique colour combination, but not all combinations are present (for example, if red and orange are on opposite sides of the solved Cube, there is no edge piece with both red and orange sides). The location of these cubes relative to one another can be altered by twisting an outer third of the Cube 90°, 180° or 270°, but the location of the coloured sides relative to one another in the completed state of the puzzle cannot be altered: it is fixed by the relative positions of the centre squares and the distribution of colour combinations on edge and corner pieces.

For most recent Cubes, the colours of the stickers are red opposite orange, yellow opposite white, and green opposite blue. However, Cubes with alternative colour arrangements also exist; for example, they might have the yellow face opposite the green, and the blue face opposite the white (with red and orange opposite faces remaining unchanged).

Douglas R. Hofstader, in the July 1982 ''Scientific American'', pointed out that Cubes could be coloured in such a way as to emphasise the corners or edges, rather than the faces as the standard colouring does; but neither of these alternative colourings has ever been produced commercially.

===Permutations===
A normal (3×3×3) Rubik's Cube has eight corners and twelve edges. There are <tex>8!</tex> ways to arrange the corner cubies. Seven can be oriented independently, and the orientation of the eighth depends on the preceding seven, giving <tex>3^7</tex> possibilities. There are <tex>12!/2</tex> ways to arrange the edges, since an odd permutation of the corners implies an odd permutation of the edges as well. Eleven edges can be flipped independently, with the flip of the twelfth depending on the preceding ones, giving <tex>2^{11}</tex> possibilities.
:<tex> {8! \cdot 3^7 \cdot 12! \cdot 2^{10}} \approx 4.33 \cdot 10^{19}</tex>

There are exactly <tex>43,252,003,274,489,856,000</tex> possibilities. In other words, there are forty-three quintillion or forty-three trillion possibilities. The puzzle is often advertised as having only billions of positions, as the larger numbers could be regarded as incomprehensible to many. To put this into perspective, if every permutation of a 57-millimeter Rubik's Cube were lined up end to end, it would stretch out approximately 261 light years.

The preceding figure is limited to permutations that can be reached solely by turning the sides of the cube. If one considers permuations reached through disassembly of the cube, the number becomes twelve times as large:
:<tex> {8! \cdot 3^8 \cdot 12! \cdot 2^{12}} \approx 5.19 \cdot 10^{20}</tex>

The full number is <tex>519,024,039,293,878,272,000</tex> or 519 quintillion possible arrangements of the pieces that make up the Cube, but only one in twelve of these are actually solveable. This is because there is no sequence of moves that will swap a single pair of pieces or rotate a single corner or edge cube. Thus there are twelve possible sets of reachable configurations, sometimes called "universes" or "orbits", into which the cube can be placed by dismantling and reassembling it.

Despite the vast number of positions, all Cubes can be solved in twenty-five or fewer moves (see [[Optimal solutions for Rubik's Cube]]).

The large number of permutations is often given as a measure of the Rubik's cube's complexity. However, the puzzle's difficulty does not necessarily follow from the large number of permutations. The problem of putting the 26 letters of the alphabet in alphabetical order has a larger complexity (<tex>26! \approx 4.03 \cdot 10^{26}</tex> possible orderings), but is less difficult.

===Centre faces===
The original (official) Rubik's Cube has no orientation markings on the centre faces, although some carried the words "Rubik's Cube" on the centre square of the white face, and therefore solving it does not require any attention to orienting those faces correctly. However, if one has a marker pen, one could, for example, mark the central squares of an unshuffled Cube with four coloured marks on each edge, each corresponding to the colour of the adjacent face. Some Cubes have also been produced commercially with markings on all of the squares, such as the Lo Shu magic square or playing card suits. Thus one can scramble and then unscramble the Cube yet have the markings on the centers rotated, and it becomes an additional test to "solve" the centers as well. This is known as "supercubing".

Putting markings on the Rubik's Cube increases the difficulty mainly because it expands the set of distinguishable possible configurations. When the Cube is unscrambled apart from the orientations of the central squares, there will always be an even number of squares requiring a quarter turn. Thus there are <tex>4^6/2 = 2,048</tex> possible configurations of the centre squares in the otherwise unscrambled position, increasing the total number of possible Cube permutations from 43,252,003,274,489,856,000 (<tex>4.3 \cdot 10^{19}</tex>) to 88,580,102,706,155,225,088,000 (<tex>8.9 \cdot 10^{22}</tex>).

==Solutions==
Many general solutions for the Rubik's Cube have been discovered independently. The most popular method was developed by [[David Singmaster]] and published in the book ''Notes on Rubik's "Magic Cube"'' in 1981. This solution involves solving the Cube layer by layer, in which one layer, designated the top, is solved first, followed by the middle layer, and then the final and bottom layer. After practice, solving the Cube layer by layer can be done in under one minute. Other general solutions include "corners first" methods or combinations of several other methods.
Most tutorials teach the layer by layer method, as it gives an easy-to-understand step-by-step guide on how to solve it.

Speedcubing solutions have been developed for solving the Rubik's Cube as quickly as possible. The most common speedcubing solution was developed by [[Jessica Fridrich]]. It is a very efficient layer-by-layer method that requires a large number of algorithms (see below), especially for orienting and permuting the last layer. The first-layer corners and second layer are done simultaneously, with each corner paired up with a second-layer edge piece. Another well-known method was developed by [[Lars Petrus]]. In this method, a 2×2×2 section is solved first, followed by a 2×2×3, and then the incorrect edges are solved using a three-move algorithm, which eliminates the need for a possible 32-move algorithm later.
One of the advantages of this method is that it tends to give solutions in fewer moves. For this reason, the method is also popular for fewest move competitions.

Solutions follow a series of steps and include a set of algorithms for solving each step. An algorithm, also known as a process or an operator, is a series of twists that accomplishes a particular goal. For instance, one algorithm might switch the locations of three corner pieces, while leaving the rest of the pieces in place. Basic solutions require learning as few as four or five algorithms but are generally inefficient, needing around 100 twists on average to solve an entire Cube. In comparison, [[Fridrich Method|Fridrich's advanced solution]] requires learning roughly 120 algorithms but allows the Cube to be solved in only 55 moves on average. A different kind of solution developed by Ryan Heise<ref>[http://www.ryanheise.com/cube/ Ryan Heise's method]</ref> uses no algorithms but rather teaches a set of underlying principles that can be used to solve in fewer than 40 moves. A number of complete solutions can also be found in any of the books listed in the bibliography, and most can be used to solve any Cube in under five minutes.
=== Algorithms ===
In Rubik's cubists' parlance, an ''algorithm'' means "a memorized sequence of moves whose effect on the cube is known". This fully conforms with the mathematical and logical use of [[algorithm]] defined as ''a list of well-defined instructions for completing a task from a given initial state, through well-defined successive states, to a desired end-state''. A Rubik's cube algorithm transforms the state of the cube in such a way that a small part of the cube becomes solved without "scrambling" any parts that have previously been solved, or else places the cube in a state from which the solver knows it can now be partly, or fully, solved by the application of further algorithms.

For instance, if we label the six sides of a cube like the six sides of a die, the sequence of movements 116622553344 will have a definite effect, namely, it will transform a solved cube into a cube with an "X" design in each face. More complicated sequences of movements will have more useful results, such as swapping three corners of the third layer without moving any other pieces. The sequences that are useful to solve the cube are called "algorithms".

=== The search for optimal solutions ===
The manual solution methods described above are intended to be easy to learn, but much effort has gone into finding even faster solutions to the Rubik's Cube.

In 1982, David Singmaster and Alexander Frey hypothesized that the number of moves needed to solve the Rubik's Cube, given an ideal algorithm, might be in "the low twenties". In 2007, Daniel Kunkle and Gene Cooperman used computer search methods to demonstrate that any 3×3×3 Rubik's Cube configuration can be solved in a maximum of 26 moves.

In 2008, Tomas Rokicki lowered the maximum to 22 moves.

Work continues to try to reduce the upper bound on optimal solutions.
The arrangement known as the super-flip, where every edge is in its correct position but flipped, requires 20 moves to be solved (Using the official [[notation]], these are: U R2 F B R B2 R U2 L B2 R U' D' R2 F R' L B2 U2 F2). No arrangement of the Rubik's Cube has been discovered so far that requires more than 20 moves to solve.

===Competitions and record times===

Many [[speedcubing]] competitions have been held to determine who can solve the Rubik's Cube in the shortest time. The number of contests is going up every year; there were 72 official competitions from 2003 to 2006; 33 were in 2006 alone.

The first world championship organized by the ''Guinness Book of World Records'' was held in Munich on March 13, 1981. All Cubes were moved 40 times and rubbed with petroleum jelly. The official winner, with a record of 38 seconds, was Jury Froeschl, born in Munich.

The first international world championship was held in Budapest on June 5, 1982, and was won by [[Minh Thai]], a Vietnamese student from Los Angeles, California, with a time of 22.95 seconds.

Since 2003, competitions are decided by the best average of 5, dropping the best and worst time and averaging the middle 3 solves. The [[World Cube Association]] maintains a database of all World Cube Association official attempts. In 2004, the WCA made it mandatory to use a special timing device called a Stackmat timer.

The [http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/regions.php current world record] for single time is set by Feliks Zemdegs in 2011; he set a world record best of 6.24 seconds in May, 2011 at the Kubaroo Open 2011 .

===Alternative competitions===

In addition, alternative competitions are held (these are official WCA recognized events). These include:
*Blindfolded solving
[http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/events.php?eventId=333bf&regionId=&years=&show=100%2BPersons&single=Single Rubik's 3x3x3 Cube: Blindfolded records]
*Solving the Cube using a single hand
[http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/events.php?eventId=333oh&regionId=&years=&show=100%2BPersons&single=Single Rubik's 3x3x3 Cube: One-handed]
*Solving the Cube with one's feet
[http://www.worldcubeassociation.org/results/events.php?eventId=333ft&regionId=&years=only%2B2006&show=100%2BPersons&single=Single Rubik's 3x3x3 Cube: With feet]

== See Also ==
* [[FAQ]]
* [[Main Page]]
* [[Puzzle Theory]]
* [[Puzzle Notation]]
* [[Puzzle Hardware]]
* [[Cubing Terminology]]
* [[Methods]]

[[Category:Cubing Resources]]

Rubik's cube (puzzle type)

2011-05-21T18:38:08Z

Ernie722:

[[Image:Roux solved.jpg|160px|thumb|A Rubik's Cube in its solved position.]]
The '''Rubik's cube''' (also known as the '''3x3x3 cube''', and normally referred to as the '''3x3x3''' or '''3x3''') is a twistable [[puzzle]] in the shape of a cube that is cut two times along each of three axes. It is said to be the best-selling toy in history, with well over 300 million cubes sold, and because of this popularity it is the most commonly practiced cube in [[speedsolving]]. The main brand is [[Rubik's]], which was first patented by [[Erno Rubik]] in 1975, and which began being produced on a wide scale in the early 1980s. Recently the cubing community has seen the development of [[DIY]] cubes made in China, which many say are better for speedcubing than the official cubes.

This puzzle has 6 fixed [[center]]s, 12 [[edge]]s, and 8 [[corner]]s, and a total of 43,252,003,274,489,856,000 (or 4.3 x 10^19) positions. It has been proved that every position can be solved in 22 or fewer moves, and many believe that this can be improved to 20 moves.

The current official [[record]] speed solve is 6.24 seconds held by Feliks Zemdegs.

== See Also ==
* [[3x3x3 Cubes]] (brands)
* [[3x3x3 Methods]]
* [[Rubik's Brand Cube]]
* [[Notation]]
* [[World Record | World Records]]

== External Links ==
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rubik's_Cube The Wikipedia article]

{{Cubics}}

Rubik's cube (puzzle type)

2011-05-21T18:37:54Z

Ernie722:

[[Image:Roux solved.jpg|160px|thumb|A Rubik's Cube in its solved position.]]
The '''Rubik's cube''' (also known as the '''3x3x3 cube''', and normally referred to as the '''3x3x3''' or '''3x3''') is a twistable [[puzzle]] in the shape of a cube that is cut two times along each of three axes. It is said to be the best-selling toy in history, with well over 300 million cubes sold, and because of this popularity it is the most commonly practiced cube in [[speedsolving]]. The main brand is [[Rubik's]], which was first patented by [[Erno Rubik]] in 1975, and which began being produced on a wide scale in the early 1980s. Recently the cubing community has seen the development of [[DIY]] cubes made in China, which many say are better for speedcubing than the official cubes.

This puzzle has 6 fixed [[center]]s, 12 [[edge]]s, and 8 [[corner]]s, and a total of 43,252,003,274,489,856,000 (or 4.3 x 10^19) positions. It has been proved that every position can be solved in 22 or fewer moves, and many believe that this can be improved to 20 moves.

The current official [[record]] speed solve is 6.24 seconds held by Feliks Zemdeg.

== See Also ==
* [[3x3x3 Cubes]] (brands)
* [[3x3x3 Methods]]
* [[Rubik's Brand Cube]]
* [[Notation]]
* [[World Record | World Records]]

== External Links ==
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rubik's_Cube The Wikipedia article]

{{Cubics}}

V-Cube

2011-05-16T22:46:50Z

Ernie722: /* V-Cube 6 */

{{Manufacturer
|NAME=Verdes Innovations S.A.
|LOGO=Vcube_logo.jpg
|YEARFOUNDED=2000
|LOCATION=Greece
|YEARSACTIVE=2008-present
|AREASSERVED=Worldwide
|WEBSITE=http://www.v-cubes.com
|PRODUCTS=V-Cube 5, V-Cube 6, V-Cube 7
}}

'''V-cube''' is a brand of [[cube]] [[puzzles]] which started selling cubes in June 2008. For the moment they only sell the [[2x2x2]], [[5x5x5]], [[6x6x6]], and [[7x7x7]] puzzles, but they have plans to go from [[3x3x3]] all the way through 11x11x11.

V-cubes were invented by [[Panagiotis Verdes]] and are produced by Verdes Innovations S.A., Verdes's company located in Greece. The design of these cubes is completely new and different from all pre-existing designs, as it is based on the cone and as the pieces hook together instead of simply being held together by the centers. In addition, the plastic used for the V-cubes is a bit more elastic than the normal plastic for cubes. This leads to several advantages:
* V-cube pieces are much less likely to break than pieces of any other cube, and several people have tested this by drop-kicking the cubes, throwing them across the room or onto concrete, and so on, and then immediately playing with them afterwards. This would destroy a normal cube.
* When one piece of a V-cube pops out, the remaining pieces are still held in place, so the puzzle does not collapse like an [[Eastsheen]] 4x4 or 5x5 typically does. Because of this, even if a V-cube is loose enough to pop frequently, it will remain stable until the piece is placed back in, and it is even possible to do turns (such as finishing an algorithm) while the piece is missing.
* V-cubes seem to be significantly smoother than other brands, even out of the box, and their design allows them to cut corners and be fingertricked on without any lubrication or wearing in. This makes them excellent for speedcubing.

It is very important to note that V-cube was also the first company to ever mass-produce the 6x6 and 7x7 puzzles. In fact, only a handful of these higher-order cubes have ever created by anyone else, and none of those designs were stable enough to be mass-produced. Not only are the V-cubes the first to have such large sizes, however, but every size of V-cube can be speedsolved, and the V-cube 5x5 is far better than any other brand on the market. In short, buying a set of V-cubes is very highly recommended for anyone who is interested in solving [[big cube]]s.

== Products ==
=== V-Cube 2===
{{Puzzle Ratings

=== V-Cube 5 ===
{{Puzzle Ratings
|pzl=V-Cube 5
|n=6
|ss=9.5
|lr=4.83
|cc=3.5
|pr=8.5
|qu=7.75
|rl=7.17
|wt
|ov=7.44
}}
This is almost certainly the best type of 5x5. The mechanism incorporates new principles which allow it to have low friction but also to remain intact even when several pieces are removed. Although it can take some time to break in, this type of 5x5 to the point where it is very easy to turn, a V-cube 5x5 will easily cut corners without being broken in or lubed at all.
[[Image:Vcube5.jpg|none|thumb|V-Cube 5]]

=== V-Cube 6 ===
V-Cube is currently the only manufacturer of 6x6x6 cubes. This cube has a clicking mechanism to keep a hidden inner layer it has from coming out of alignment and it does pop quite frequently.
[[Image:Vcube6.jpg|none|thumb|V-Cube 6]]

=== V-Cube 7 ===
V-Cube is currently the only manufacturer of 7x7x7 cubes.
[[Image:Wiki 7x7x7 solved.jpg|none|thumb|V-Cube 7]]

== Patents and controversy ==

The V-Cube is protected by patent worldwide, which has led to some controversy regarding knock-offs. Even puzzles types that are not available, such as the Maru 4x4x4, are considered in violation of patent, as the mechanism is inspired by V-Cubes.

== See Also ==
* [[Bigcubes]] (brands)
* [[Puzzle Hardware]]

== External Links ==
* http://www.v-cubes.com

[[Category:Cubing Terminology]]
[[Category:Puzzle Manufacturers]]
[[Category:Puzzle Shops]]
{{Stub}}

V-Cube

2011-04-29T22:01:28Z

Ernie722:

{{Manufacturer
|NAME=Verdes Innovations S.A.
|LOGO=Vcube_logo.jpg
|YEARFOUNDED=2000
|LOCATION=Greece
|YEARSACTIVE=2008-present
|AREASSERVED=Worldwide
|WEBSITE=http://www.v-cubes.com
|PRODUCTS=V-Cube 5, V-Cube 6, V-Cube 7
}}

'''V-cube''' is a brand of [[cube]] [[puzzles]] which started selling cubes in June 2008. For the moment they only sell the [[2x2x2]], [[5x5x5]], [[6x6x6]], and [[7x7x7]] puzzles, but they have plans to go from [[3x3x3]] all the way through 11x11x11.

V-cubes were invented by [[Panagiotis Verdes]] and are produced by Verdes Innovations S.A., Verdes's company located in Greece. The design of these cubes is completely new and different from all pre-existing designs, as it is based on the cone and as the pieces hook together instead of simply being held together by the centers. In addition, the plastic used for the V-cubes is a bit more elastic than the normal plastic for cubes. This leads to several advantages:
* V-cube pieces are much less likely to break than pieces of any other cube, and several people have tested this by drop-kicking the cubes, throwing them across the room or onto concrete, and so on, and then immediately playing with them afterwards. This would destroy a normal cube.
* When one piece of a V-cube pops out, the remaining pieces are still held in place, so the puzzle does not collapse like an [[Eastsheen]] 4x4 or 5x5 typically does. Because of this, even if a V-cube is loose enough to pop frequently, it will remain stable until the piece is placed back in, and it is even possible to do turns (such as finishing an algorithm) while the piece is missing.
* V-cubes seem to be significantly smoother than other brands, even out of the box, and their design allows them to cut corners and be fingertricked on without any lubrication or wearing in. This makes them excellent for speedcubing.

It is very important to note that V-cube was also the first company to ever mass-produce the 6x6 and 7x7 puzzles. In fact, only a handful of these higher-order cubes have ever created by anyone else, and none of those designs were stable enough to be mass-produced. Not only are the V-cubes the first to have such large sizes, however, but every size of V-cube can be speedsolved, and the V-cube 5x5 is far better than any other brand on the market. In short, buying a set of V-cubes is very highly recommended for anyone who is interested in solving [[big cube]]s.

== Products ==
=== V-Cube 2===
{{Puzzle Ratings

=== V-Cube 5 ===
{{Puzzle Ratings
|pzl=V-Cube 5
|n=6
|ss=9.5
|lr=4.83
|cc=3.5
|pr=8.5
|qu=7.75
|rl=7.17
|wt
|ov=7.44
}}
This is almost certainly the best type of 5x5. The mechanism incorporates new principles which allow it to have low friction but also to remain intact even when several pieces are removed. Although it can take some time to break in, this type of 5x5 to the point where it is very easy to turn, a V-cube 5x5 will easily cut corners without being broken in or lubed at all.
[[Image:Vcube5.jpg|none|thumb|V-Cube 5]]

=== V-Cube 6 ===
V-Cube is currently the only manufacturer of 6x6x6 cubes.
[[Image:Vcube6.jpg|none|thumb|V-Cube 6]]

=== V-Cube 7 ===
V-Cube is currently the only manufacturer of 7x7x7 cubes.
[[Image:Wiki 7x7x7 solved.jpg|none|thumb|V-Cube 7]]

== Patents and controversy ==

The V-Cube is protected by patent worldwide, which has led to some controversy regarding knock-offs. Even puzzles types that are not available, such as the Maru 4x4x4, are considered in violation of patent, as the mechanism is inspired by V-Cubes.

== See Also ==
* [[Bigcubes]] (brands)
* [[Puzzle Hardware]]

== External Links ==
* http://www.v-cubes.com

[[Category:Cubing Terminology]]
[[Category:Puzzle Manufacturers]]
[[Category:Puzzle Shops]]
{{Stub}}