https://www.speedsolving.com/wiki/api.php?action=feedcontributions&user=PiotrGrochowski&feedformat=atomSpeedsolving.com Wiki - User contributions [en]2024-03-28T15:23:07ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.34.0https://www.speedsolving.com/wiki/index.php?title=User_talk:PiotrGrochowski&diff=33039User talk:PiotrGrochowski2017-09-18T16:18:58Z<p>PiotrGrochowski: </p>
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<div>Hey, I see your contributing to the wiki and modified the homepage. It looks great on desktop, but on mobile it doesn't format well. Any recommendations to get the mobile version of the site looking better? Thanks.<br />
--[[User:PJK|PJK]] ([[User talk:PJK|talk]]) 21:36, 17 September 2017 (UTC)<br />
<br />
I don't care about mobile version, in fact, I always browse Internet in desktop mode in any device. [[User:PiotrGrochowski|PiotrGrochowski]] ([[User talk:PiotrGrochowski|talk]]) 05:08, 18 September 2017 (UTC)<br />
<br />
Note that the vast majority of users view the site on mobile so making it responsive is quite important. --[[User:PJK|PJK]] ([[User talk:PJK|talk]]) 15:04, 18 September 2017 (UTC)<br />
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:Are you stupid?! [[User:PiotrGrochowski|PiotrGrochowski]] ([[User talk:PiotrGrochowski|talk]]) 16:18, 18 September 2017 (UTC)</div>PiotrGrochowskihttps://www.speedsolving.com/wiki/index.php?title=LL:EO_cube_state&diff=33032LL:EO cube state2017-09-18T05:29:29Z<p>PiotrGrochowski: /* Previous Steps */</p>
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<div>{{Cube state Infobox<br />
|name=LL:EO<br />
|image=<br />
|anames=[[Yellow Cross of LL cube state]] <br />
|subgroup=<br />
|esubgroup=<br />
|csubgroup=<br />
|previous=<sup></sup><br />
* Many others<br />
|next=<sup></sup><br />
* Many others<br />
|previoussteps=[[LL:EO cube state#Previous_Steps|Steps before the LL:EO cube state]]<br />
|nextsteps=[[LL:EO cube state#Next_Steps|Steps after the LL:EO cube state]]<br />
}}<br />
<br />
{{work}}<br />
<br />
'''LL:EO cube state''' is a state of a cube that involves having the first two layers of the cube solved as well as having the top layer edges oriented.<br />
<br />
<br />
==Previous Steps==<br />
These are common with [[beginner's method]]:<br />
<br />
*An algorithm F U R U' R' F' may be used to transform an up/left bird shape to yellow cross.<br />
*An algorithm F R U R' U' F' may be used to transform a horizontal stroke shape to yellow cross.<br />
<br />
==Next Steps==</div>PiotrGrochowskihttps://www.speedsolving.com/wiki/index.php?title=Lubrication&diff=33031Lubrication2017-09-18T05:15:40Z<p>PiotrGrochowski: link to Maru</p>
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<div>A '''lubricant''' (or '''lube''') is a material which can be put in a [[puzzle]] to make it easier to turn or smoother. This page contains descriptions of different lubricants and specific suggestions for how to use them. In general, to lube a cube, you should apply the lubricant either by removing one piece and spraying it in, or by disassembling the cube completely and coating the pieces in lubricant. After lube is applied, it is usually best to not time a solve immediately, but rather give the lube a few minutes to work in. It is also recommended that you do not apply lube to very stiff cubes, as this can sometimes make them even harder to turn; instead, try putting vaseline in the cube, then after a week or two, clean it out and then lubricate it.<br />
<br />
The most important part of speedcubing, known to halve times for many people.<br />
<br />
The following two general terms are used to characterise the friction effects of a lubricant:<br />
* '''Static Friction''' - force required to initiate a turn.<br />
* '''Dynamic Friction''' - resistance felt during the turn.<br />
The range of lubricants available affect each of these aspects in differing degrees. For example, silicone oils tend to reduce static friction, while increasing dynamic friction.<br />
<br />
Choose the right lube, or it will make it worse. The right lube depends on player and cube. There is no single agreed-on recommendation.<br />
== Silicon-Based ==<br />
Silicon-based lubricants are a highly popular and effective way to lubricate cubes.<br />
Silicone sprays leave a smooth coat of lube over the cube's plastic to make it glide smoothly over other surfaces, thus making your cube turn smoother.<br />
<br />
===Cubicle Silicone Lube===<br />
There is a wide range of lubes from 5cc to 25cc, from Weight 5 to Weight 1. The heavier lube is better for the core (Weight 5,4,3) and the lighter lube is better for the pieces (Weight 3,2,1). [http://thecubicle.us/cubicle-silicone-lube-c-35_64.html: TheCubicle Silicone Lube]<br />
<br />
===Lubix Cube===<br />
A high viscosity pure silicone oil fluid. Very Effective and has risen to one of the most popular lubricants on sale. The lubricant is a little expensive but only very little is needed and it is said to last a very long time.<br />
<br />
The same silicone oil ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polydimethylsiloxane dimethylsiloxane fluid]) could be found at most local hobby stores with a much cheaper price, though missing Lubix's syringe.<br />
<br />
===Rubik's Lube===<br />
This is the lube that comes in a syringe-like container when you order from Rubiks.com.<br />
<br />
[https://www.rubiks.com/shop/product.php?pid=34 3x3]<br />
[https://www.rubiks.com/shop/product.php?pid=35 4x4]<br />
[https://www.rubiks.com/shop/product.php?pid=36 5x5]<br />
[https://www.rubiks.com/shop/product.php?pid=37 PVC]<br />
<br />
===[[Maru]] Lubricant===<br />
A white, milk like liquid. Works very well and is very popular. Huge performance increase on the spot even with only 1 or 2 drops.The lubricant tends to dry out quickly during a weeks period. Very Cheap and lasts for over 3 months per bottle.<br />
[http://www.lightake.com/detail.do/sku.30344~C.12332011TXFCIVEFR! Maru Lube at Lightake]<br />
<br />
===Cubesmith Lube===<br />
Cubesmith sells low and high viscosity lube [http://www.cubesmith.com/Lubricant.htm here]. Each syringe contains 5 cc of lube. It does not melt plastic like Jig-A-Loo, CRC, and vaseline can. If you are gonna use it, avoiding getting the lube on the stickers, as it may compromise the adhesive. Each order also comes with 2 Cubesmith logo stickers.<br />
<br />
===Jig-A-Loo===<br />
Used by many cubers, this lubricant works very well. However, it can melt plastic temporarily, so it is recommended that you completely disassemble your cube to lubricate it, and that you let the pieces dry well before reassembly. Available in the US and Canada. @see [http://www.jigaloo.com/us/e_products_jigaloo.php jigaloo.com], Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5129 The TRUTH about Jig-A-Loo] <br />
<br />
===CRC Silicone Spray===<br />
CRC silicon spray has been used by many cubers. This is a very good lubricant to use. It will dry out soon, but works well. It is known to eat cubes too, so use with caution. Available at Wal Mart in the US and Canada. Available at some hardware stores in Australia.<br />
<br />
===Tableau Dry Lube===<br />
A silicone-based spray lubricant, popular in the UK. Cheap to buy and often gets good reviews. [http://www.ebay.co.uk eBay.co.uk] is usually the best place to buy it online. Like most spray lubricants, its propellant can cause temporary melting of plastic, so it is recommended that the cube is disassembled to allow the lube to dry before use.<br />
@see [http://www.tableauproducts.com/ tableauproducts.com]<br />
<br />
===Shock Oil===<br />
Available worldwide, this comes in a range of viscosities and is 100% pure silicone oil. Mainly sold for radio controlled car shock absorbers. Available from [http://www.racingstate.com/shock-oil.html racingstate.com] in wt30 (UK only), or [http://www.towerhobbies.com towerhobbies.com] in a range of viscosities including [http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LX3303&P=7 wt10], [http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LX3304&P=M wt20] and [http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LX3305&P=M wt30] (shipping is expensive, but available worldwide).<br />
* Speedsolving.com : [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17011 What type of Shock oil]<br />
<br />
===Differential Oil===<br />
Differential oils of very high viscosity have been used successfully by some cubers. 50,000wt oils such as [http://www.amazon.com/Silicone-Diff-Oil-50-000/dp/B0006O7MII/ref=sr_1_1 this one] are reported to produce very good results. The right quantity is a small drop per cube, and applying more may make a cube slower and sticky. These oils are available in toy shops as well as [http://shop.ebay.com/?_from=R40&_trksid=m570&_nkw=50%2C000wt+silicone+diff+oil&_sacat=See-All-Categories on eBay].<br />
* [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?30890-High-Viscosity-Differential-Oil-Thread&highlight=differential New Speedsolving.com discussion]<br />
<br />
===Maplin Silicone Grease with PTFE===<br />
Works well on [[DIY]] cubes, and is easy to find in the UK. Comes in a spray can with extension tube for lazy lubing. @see [http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=30030&C=SO&U=strat15 maplin.co.uk]<br />
<br />
===Armour All original protectant===<br />
It is silicone based, and pretty good, but sometimes causes the cube to gunk up when overlubed. It is recommended that you wipe off excess lubricant after using. @see [http://www.armorall.com/products/view_product.php?product_id=8 armorall.com]<br />
<br />
===Other silicone lubricants===<br />
*Calvin Puzzles Lube - available from hknowstore.com and puzzleaddictions,com<br />
*W5 Silicone Oil - available from LIDL stores across Europe<br />
* [http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_214714_langId_-1_categoryId_165750 3 in 1 silicone spray] - Takes a while to dry. Available in UK hardware stores such as Halfords. It also leaves a very sticky feel to it, even after it has dried.<br />
* Wynn's Silicone Lube - From 'A1', a UK motoring spares store.<br />
* Rapide silicone spray - Available from UK stores.<br />
* [http://www.griffon.nl/nl-nl/producten/928-smeermiddelen-vetten/product/945-siliconenvet Griffon] - Available in the Netherlands<br />
* [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4695 Prestone]<br />
* [http://www.spraywayinc.com/products.php?id=945 Sprayway]<br />
* Gyrolon Universal Silikonspray - Available in the german dicounter ALDI<br />
* OK/Q8 SILKON SPRAY, avaiable in Sweden, much like CRC but does not dry out as fast.<br />
<br />
== PFPE-Based ==<br />
Perfluoropolyethers are a class of synthetic oils invented by DuPont. They are mainly used in the aerospace industry for their exceptional resistance to degrading by chemical attack and high temperatures. Its use in speed cubing provides the non-damaging benefits of silicone-based oils but with the added advantage of lasting much longer due to the material's very low evaporation rate.<br />
<br />
===T-1===<br />
T-Minus One Speed Cube Oil comes with a 5ml bottle of PFPE and molybdenum disulfide core grease in a syringe. Sold on [http://www.amazon.com/T-Minus-OneTM-Speed-Cube-PFPE/dp/B00T14SKCQ Amazon]<br />
<br />
== Petroleum-Based ==<br />
These include lubricants such as vaseline, WD-40, or Liquid Wrench. It is '''recommended that you do not use these, but if you really want to, use them with caution''', as petroleum and petroleum distillates speed the aging of plastic, and may dissolve the plastic resulting in destruction of the pieces and the internal mechanism. Excessive uses of these lubricants often lead to the center mechanism breaking apart completely. Some, however, have reported success using petroleum based lubricants to speed up [[breaking in]] of new cubes. It would be best if you have a tight cube (Rubik's brand) to lube it will a petroleum based jelly for about a month. Then take it all a part and [[cleaning]] it and use a silicone base lubricant. <br />
<br />
===Vaseline===<br />
Goopy and well known, this is not the best lube. Being a petroleum based lubricant it will speed the deterioration of the pieces as well as the internal mechanism. Some people recommend using vaseline for a while to wear down the inside of the cube (almost like breaking in the cube) before using other lubricants.<br />
<br />
===WD-40===<br />
Known for damaging cubes by wearing the pieces in and making them harder to turn, this does not actually act as a lubricant for the plastic at all. However, there have been some success stories of WD-40 being used on cubes and making them smoother.<br />
It is recommended you '''do not use this'''. If you must, however, you should wash or wipe it off after about half an hour.<br />
<br />
===Liquid Wrench and WD-40 Silicone===<br />
Even though Liquid Wrench and WD-40 silicone says Silicone Spray on the can, it still contains petroleum distillates. The lubricants also have a very petroleum-like smell and will stay there. Liquid Wrench and WD-40 silicone sprays are not odorless. Do not use them. It contains less than 5% of silicone.<br />
<br />
== Miscellaneous Other Lubricants ==<br />
<br />
=== Cooking No-stick Spray ===<br />
Yes, PAM. Not necessarily the cleanest or best thing to use, it works nonetheless. It will slowly eat the plastic but not nearly as fast as petroleum based products. It is recommended you clean out your cube frequently if you use this.<br />
<br />
=== White Lithium Grease ===<br />
There are some mixed results of this lubricant, but it does work fairly well. The cube will have a sticky feeling after using it, though it wears off after some [[breaking-in]].<br />
<br />
=== Furniture Polish ===<br />
Some furniture polishes such as [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mr._Sheen Mr Sheen] and [http://www.uclean.com/catalog/productInfo/chemicals/polishes/johnson_shine_up_polish_32_oz_lemon.html Shine-Up Polish] contain silicone and can be a cheap and widely available lubricant. Reviews are mixed with some reporting a positive result, while others aren't convinced.<br />
<br />
=== Graphite Powder ===<br />
A dry, oil-free solution. Reduces the 'sticky' feeling, but causes cube to turn less smoothly.<br />
<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vbfKLIbS1A&index=55&list=FLo5annlK5ht7WYKDASovFvA: Comparasion of Cubicle Lubes] - a good video about the types<br />
* YouTube: [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ppbBM11UYc How to lubricate a Rubik's cube] - standard method (by Jh543)<br />
* YouTube: [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2v0UiJsXb8A How to Lube Your Rubik's Cube] - standard method, inc 4x4x4 (by VanquishSDude)<br />
* YouTube: [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tarWH5BCZVw How to Lube Your Cube] - disassembling the cube (by biggajigga721)<br />
* YouTube: [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JtOHpSyfjd8 Rubik's Cube Lubrication experiment] (by badmephisto)<br />
<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5584 Which silicone lubricant to use, and where to get?]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=15450 Jigaloo Vs Crc]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=9801 What Lube and Where to get it from?] (UK Lube)<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=12822 UK Cubing Lubricant]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=14477 Shock Oil]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=9380 Lubricant Other than Silicone Spray]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=23260 Shock Oil VS. CRC Silicone Spray]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?38138-Survey-What-kind-of-lube-do-you-use Survey]<br />
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* [http://www.lightake.com/products.do/category.Wholesale_Lubricant-174~c.12332011TXFCIVEFR! Lightake Lubricant]<br />
* Wikipedia: [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Friction Friction]<br />
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[[Category:Puzzle hardware]]</div>PiotrGrochowskihttps://www.speedsolving.com/wiki/index.php?title=User_talk:PiotrGrochowski&diff=33030User talk:PiotrGrochowski2017-09-18T05:08:07Z<p>PiotrGrochowski: </p>
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<div>Hey, I see your contributing to the wiki and modified the homepage. It looks great on desktop, but on mobile it doesn't format well. Any recommendations to get the mobile version of the site looking better? Thanks.<br />
--[[User:PJK|PJK]] ([[User talk:PJK|talk]]) 21:36, 17 September 2017 (UTC)<br />
<br />
I don't care about mobile version, in fact, I always browse Internet in desktop mode in any device. [[User:PiotrGrochowski|PiotrGrochowski]] ([[User talk:PiotrGrochowski|talk]]) 05:08, 18 September 2017 (UTC)</div>PiotrGrochowskihttps://www.speedsolving.com/wiki/index.php?title=Commutator&diff=33023Commutator2017-09-17T18:30:57Z<p>PiotrGrochowski: /* Fundamental principle */</p>
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<div>A '''commutator''' is a sequence of moves that consists in doing a sequence A, then a sequence B, then the inverse of the sequence A and finally the inverse of the sequence B. As a result, only specific pieces are affected. It allows one to finish the cube without disturbing pieces that are already in place.<br />
<br />
== Mathematical definition ==<br />
<br />
Given a group, a '''commutator''' is an element of the form <i>ghg'h'</i> (also denoted [<i>g</i>, <i>h</i>]), where <i>g</i> and <i>h</i> are elements of the group with inverses <i>g'</i> and <i>h'</i>.<br />
<br />
Cube notation is very close: A B A' B' = [A, B]<br />
<br />
== Fundamental principle ==<br />
<br />
It is straightforward that A A' does nothing, as well as B B', because A' is the inverse of A and B' the inverse of B. Also A A' B' B.<br />
<br />
So the commutator A B A' B' does change something only because B A' is not the same as A' B. When B A' = A' B, or B A = A B, we say that the elements A and B commute. In this case, A B A' B' = A (B A') B' = A (A' B) B' = I where I is the identity.<br />
<br />
For example for L and R or U and D. In this case, the commutator does nothing:<br />
L R L' R' = L L' R R' = I<br />
<br />
So in some way, the commutator allows you to measure to which extent the moves do not commute.<br />
<br />
== Effect ==<br />
[[File:COMM Effects section Definitions.png|450px|thumb|right|This image defines the terms '''J''', '''K''', '''N''', '''N'''A’,'''N'''B’ used to describe how the commutator works. ]]<br />
To help us discuss how a commutator works we will first define some terms.<br><br />
The image on the right gives a visual indication of which pieces of a cube are affected by the different sequences of a commutator. In the example commutator chosen, the sequence A is F and the sequence B is U, giving the simple commutator [F, U]. <br />
Referring to the image, the sequence A changes the pieces at a set of locations we will call '''J'''. The sequence B changes the pieces at a set of locations we will call '''K'''. We will call the intersection of '''J''' and '''K''', '''N'''. If '''J''' and '''K''' have no intersection, such as when A equals L and B equals R, then A and B are said to commute, and the commutator [L, R] does nothing. However if, as in the image, when '''J''' and '''K''' do have an intersection, A and B generally do not commute and the cube, as a result, is changed by the commutator. Note that the changes which this particular commutator make to the cube are rather difficult to understand, however more straight forward commutator examples will be discussed in a moment. <br />
<br />
There is a set of locations that we will be calling '''N'''A'. This name is appropriate because the pieces can be identified by applying the inverse of A to the locations '''N'''. Referring to the lowest right hand cube, these particular locations are identified using two shades of grey. Pieces that are lighter grey are pieces that will be brought into the intersection region '''N''', pieces that are darker grey are pieces that are already within the intersection region and will remain in the region. Such pieces will however be moved within the region, as in this case, or will be twisted in place. <br />
<br />
All of the above statements regarding the '''N'''A' region is also true for '''N'''B' region.<br />
<br />
The only pieces that are affected by any commutator are the ones located in the union of '''N''', '''N'''A' and '''N'''B'. In other words, pieces that are affected by a commutator are those who are at the intersection of both moves, or are brought into the intersection by A or B. Other pieces, even if they are temporarily mixed up after the sequences A and B are executed, will be put back into their original locations with sequences A' and B'.<br><br />
This restoration of all the pieces that are not in the union of '''N''', '''N'''A' and '''N'''B' is the reason the commutator is such a powerful tool.<br />
<br />
Click the following thumbnail for an image similar to the one just discussed which instead uses the more common commutator [B'&nbsp;D&nbsp;B,&nbsp;U']. <br />
[[File:COMM Effects section Example.jpg|70px ]]<br />
=== Trivial case ===<br />
<br />
When '''J''' and '''K''' have no intersection, A and B commute, so the commutator does nothing.<br />
<br />
=== B inplace ===<br />
<br />
If '''N'''B' = '''N''', the sequence B only moves affected pieces that are inside the intersection. It may also move pieces that are outside the intersection, but those moves will be cancelled at the end. Affected pieces will only be '''N''' and '''N'''A'. So those pieces will be in '''J''', i.e. among pieces that are directly affected by A. <br />
<br />
In this case, it is relevant to consider that [A, B] = (A B A') B' = [A: B] B'. First part is the [[conjugate]] of B by A, and second part is the inverse of B.<br />
<br />
If [A: B] and B' interfere, there is a quirk part P<sub>Q</sub> (see general case).<br />
<br />
==== Examples ====<br />
Let's consider [M', U2] = M' U2 M U2<br />
<br />
In this example, '''N''' are the top-front and top-back edges. '''N'''B' is '''N'''U2, which is exactly '''N''', and '''N'''A' are front-bottom and front-top edges. So affected pieces are top-back, top-front, and front-bottom edges, which are directly affected by M and M'. In other words, affected pieces are in the middle slice.<br />
<br />
The conjugated move is U2. Because only middle slice pieces are changed at the end, we can safe ignore top-left and top-right pieces. The relevant part of U2 is just a swap of top-back and top-front edges. Thus, M' U2 M swaps front-top and front-bottom edges.<br />
<br />
So [M', U2] can be understood as: swap front-top and front-bottom edges, then swap top-back and top-front edges, which yields a 3-cycle of edges.<br />
<br />
There is a quirk part, the front-bottom edge, which is affected by both [M': U2] and U2, i.e. by all four moves of the commutator.<br />
<br />
Let's consider [M2, U2] = M2 U2 M2 U2<br />
<br />
Again, '''N''' are the top-front and top-back edges. But there is no more interference between [M': U2] and U2, thus no quirk part. Simply, top-front and top-back edges are swapped, as well as bottom-front and bottom-back edges.<br />
<br />
=== A inplace ===<br />
<br />
[[File:COMM_Effects_Twist_Corn.png|450px|thumb|right|This commutator twists two corners in place. It is an example of a commutator in which '''N'''A'='''N'''. [http://alg.garron.us/?alg=M2_D2_M2_U_M2_D2_M2_U-__&scheme=brogwy Applet of commutator] ]]<br />
The image on the right breaks down a commutator that twists two corner pieces. In the type of commutator being discussed in this section, the sequence A does not move pieces into the intersection region but only moves or twists pieces that are already within the region. As a result, the '''N'''A' region and intersection region '''N''' are the same. In this particular commutator, the sequence A twists the single piece that is in the intersection region counter-clockwise. (Refer to the cube image which shows the effects of sequence A on the cube) Note that, as for all commutators, sequence A moves or twists all of the pieces that are in the '''J''' region, however any changes to that region which are outside of the intersection region are undone by sequence A'. If one performs this commutator on a cube or runs this [http://alg.garron.us/?alg=R-_D-_R_D_R-_D-_R__U_R-_D_R_D-_R-_D_R_U-&scheme=brogwy applet] they will see that the piece at '''N'''B' gets twisted clockwise when sequence A' is restoring the rest of the '''J''' region. <br />
<br />
To appreciate sequence B's interaction with the intersection region one can observe the general nature of a commutator. Looking at the mathematical structure of a commutator, A B A' B' one can see that it has two overlapping [[conjugates]]. ie A B A' B' = (A B A') B' = A (B A' B'). (If one is unfamiliar with conjugates it is critical that one read the lead of the conjugate page now before continuing.) It is the action of the second conjugate, B A' B', that is apparent in this type of commutator. Because sequence A' only alters the contents of the intersection region, sequence B can be viewed as the initial setup move of a conjugate, A' can be viewed as the actual manipulation move and B' can be viewed as the restoring move. Regarding this specific commutator, because sequence A twists the corner piece at '''N'''A' counter-clockwise, the sequence A', which is acting as the middle manipulation sequence of a conjugate, twists the corner piece at '''N'''B' clockwise.<br />
<br style="clear:both" /><br />
[[File:COMM_Eff_Exchange_Edges.jpg|450px|thumb|right|It is an example of a commutator in which '''N'''A'='''N'''. [http://alg.garron.us/?alg=M2_D2_M2_U_M2_D2_M2_U-__&scheme=brogwy Applet of commutator] ]]<br />
In this next example, the sequence A again does not move pieces into the intersection region resulting in the '''N'''A' region and intersection region '''N''' being the same. However in this commutator, the sequence A moves pieces around within the intersection region. Specifically, it exchanges the only two pieces that are in the intersection region. <br />
<br />
Everything else discussed regarding the previous example applies here as well.<br><br />
Here is an [http://alg.garron.us/?alg=M2_D2_M2_U_M2_D2_M2_U-__&scheme=brogwy applet of this commutator]<br />
<br />
In summary: Sequence A initially alters the pieces that are in the intersection region, then sequence B, acting as the setup move of a conjugate, moves a different group of pieces into that intersection region. Sequence A' then, while restoring the rest of region '''J''', "reverse alters" those new pieces and sequence B' finally returns both altered groups of pieces back to their original locations.<br />
<br />
==== Examples ====<br />
<br />
Let's consider the inverse of [M', U2] which is (M' U2 M U2)' = U2 M' U2 M = [U2, M'] = U2 [M': U2]. The relevant part of U2 consists in swapping top-back and top-front edges, and [M': U2] swaps top-front and front-bottom edges.<br />
<br />
Other examples: <br />
* A = "rotating a corner" like [R' D' R D R' D' R, U]<br />
* A = "flipping an edge" like [R' E' R2 E2 R', U]<br />
* A = "exchanging two corners" like [R' L' D2 R L, U]<br />
* A = "exchanging two edges" like [M2 D2 M2, U]<br />
<br />
=== Three different sets ===<br />
<br />
When '''N'''A' and '''N'''B' are not included in '''N''', there are three sets involved in the commutator:<br />
* '''N'''A' : pieces that are brought into the intersection by A<br />
* '''N'''B' : pieces that are brought into the intersection by B<br />
* '''N''' : the intersection of '''J''' and '''K''', i.e. where A and B interfere.<br />
<br />
Note that '''N'''A' can have locations in common with '''N''' and '''N'''B' can have locations in common with '''N'''. In other words, it is possible that a sequence (A or B) does two different things in the context of a commutator:<br />
# moving pieces inside the intersection (from '''N''' to '''N''')<br />
# bringing pieces into the intersection (from '''N'''A' \ '''N''' to '''N''' or from '''N'''B' \ '''N''' to '''N''')<br />
<br />
When there is only case 1, it is in fact the cases studied before. So we are left with those possible cases:<br />
* Case 2 only: the three sets '''N'''A', '''N'''B' and '''N''' are completely separated (no overlap)<br />
* Case 1 and 2 at the same time: the three sets overlap<br />
<br />
==== No overlap ====<br />
<br />
Referring to the animation below, when sets do not overlap, the commutator can be summed up by:<br />
* A stores the content of the intersection P<sub>N</sub> in '''N'''A, and replace it with some pieces P<sub>A</sub> from '''N'''A'<br />
* B stores P<sub>A</sub> in '''N'''B, and bring some pieces P<sub>B</sub> from '''N'''B' into the intersection<br />
* A' retrieves P<sub>B</sub> from the intersection and places them in '''N'''A', and brings to the intersection previously stored pieces P<sub>N</sub> in '''N'''A<br />
* B' retrieves P<sub>N</sub> from the intersection and places them in '''N'''B', and finally places P<sub>A</sub> in the intersection.<br />
<br />
So it is a 3-cycle of (P<sub>N</sub>, P<sub>A</sub>, P<sub>B</sub>) into (P<sub>A</sub>, P<sub>B</sub>, P<sub>N</sub>)<br />
<br />
We notice that '''N'''A and '''N'''B are used as temporary storage:<br />
* The content of the intersection, P<sub>N</sub>, is first hidden by A in its storage '''N'''A, and comes back with A', so that the only transformation applied to these pieces is B'.<br />
* The content of '''N'''A' is brought by A, and is then hidden by B in '''N'''B, so that the only transformation applied to these pieces is A.<br />
* The content of '''N'''B' is brought by B, and then is placed immediately in '''N'''A' by A'. So the transformation applied to these pieces is B A'.<br />
<br />
Note that '''N'''A may or may not overlap with '''N'''A', and '''N'''B may or may not overlap with '''N'''B', but that it does not have any implication, except that the location where the pieces come from can also be the location where they are temporarily stored. The most obvious case is when '''N'''A equals to '''N'''A', or '''N'''B equals to '''N'''B', which means that pieces of the intersection '''N''' are swapped with pieces of '''N'''A' or '''N'''B', as in [R2, F2]<br />
<br />
In other words, all the commutator does is:<br />
* P<sub>A</sub> goes A<br />
* P<sub>B</sub> goes B A'<br />
* P<sub>N</sub> goes B'<br />
[[File:Break down of Commutator A B A B If there is no overlap.gif]]<br />
<br />
===== Examples =====<br />
<br />
* [R' E2 R, U'] is a 3-cycle of edges, where P<sub>A</sub> is the back-left edge, P<sub>B</sub> is the top-front edge and P<sub>N</sub> is the top-right edge.<br />
* [R' D' R, U'] is a 3-cycle of corners<br />
<br />
==== Overlap ====<br />
<br />
This is the most complex case, because it is like the "no overlap" case, but with additional interferences. <br />
<br />
===== Safe part =====<br />
<br />
Some pieces in the intersection '''N''' are hidden in a storage, thus protecting them from being scrambled by the interference due to the overlap.<br />
<br />
Let's call '''H'''<sub>B</sub> the location of pieces hidden by B:<br />
<br />
'''H'''<sub>B</sub> = (('''N'''B) \ '''N''') B'<br />
<br />
Similarly, pieces are hidden by A:<br />
<br />
'''H'''<sub>A</sub> = (('''N'''A) \ '''N''') A'<br />
<br />
We will also use pieces that are hidden by A' so that they are not affected by B':<br />
<br />
'''H'''<sub>A'</sub> = (('''N'''A') \ '''N''') A<br />
<br />
In order to get the same results as in the "no overlap" case, we will redefine the set of pieces:<br />
* P<sub>A</sub> will be pieces that are brought into '''H'''<sub>B</sub> by A, i.e. pieces that are at the beginning in '''H'''<sub>B</sub>A'. This set may overlap with the intersection '''N'''.<br />
* P<sub>B</sub> will be pieces that are brought into '''H'''<sub>A'</sub> by B, i.e. pieces that are at the beginning in '''H'''<sub>A'</sub>B' \ '''N'''<br />
* P<sub>N</sub> will be pieces that are hidden by A, which are at the beggining in '''H'''<sub>A</sub>.<br />
<br />
We get the same result as before:<br />
* P<sub>A</sub> goes A<br />
* P<sub>B</sub> goes B A'<br />
* P<sub>N</sub> goes B'<br />
<br />
====== Example ======<br />
<br />
Let's consider [R', F]. The intersection '''N''' is the front-right column (containing the front-right-top corner, the front-right-bottom corner and the front-right edge).<br />
<br />
'''H'''<sub>B</sub> = (('''N'''B) \ '''N''') B' = (('''N'''F) \ '''N''') F'<br />
which is the set of locations containing the front-right edge and the front-right-bottom corner.<br />
<br />
So P<sub>A</sub> are front-right-top corner and top-right edge.<br />
<br />
'''H'''<sub>A</sub> = (('''N'''A) \ '''N''') A' = (('''N'''R') \ '''N''') R<br />
<br />
So P<sub>N</sub> are front-right edge and front-right-bottom corner.<br />
<br />
'''H'''<sub>A'</sub> = (('''N'''A') \ '''N''') A = (('''N'''R) \ '''N''') R'<br />
which is the set of locations containing the front-right-top corner and the front-right edge.<br />
<br />
P<sub>B</sub> are pieces at '''H'''<sub>A'</sub>B, i.e. front-top edge and front-top-left corner.<br />
<br />
So the safe part of [R', F] is similar to a 3-cycle pairs, but is clearly not a 3-cycle of pairs.<br />
* P<sub>A</sub> goes R', thus replacing P<sub>N</sub><br />
* P<sub>N</sub> goes F, thus replaces a part of P<sub>A</sub> and a part of P<sub>B</sub><br />
* P<sub>B</sub> goes FR, thus replacing a part of P<sub>A</sub> and the top-right-back corner (the quirk part '''Q''')<br />
* the top-right-back corner is affected by all moves, R'FRF' = [R': F] F' equivalent to UF', or R'FRF' = R' [F: R] equivalent to R'U, thus going to the top-front-right position, replacing a part of P<sub>B</sub><br />
<br />
The quirkiness is that the locations of those pairs overlap, and that an extra location is used, the top-right-back corner. Pieces that are initially in this location are moved according a special scheme (see below). <br />
<br />
In this example, the top-right-back corner goes to the top-front-right position, thus being separated from the edges around it.<br />
<br />
===== Quirk and conjugated part =====<br />
<br />
Some pieces are outside of the pseudo 3-cycle and never hidden. Let's call their starting location the quirk part '''Q'''.<br />
<br />
'''Q''' = ('''H'''<sub>A'</sub> \ '''H'''<sub>B</sub>) A'<br />
<br />
Those pieces P<sub>Q</sub> are never hidden, thus being affected by all moves of the commutator:<br />
* P<sub>Q</sub> goes A B A' B'<br />
<br />
Some pieces are outside of the pseudo 3-cycle, but are hidden by A or B at some point. So they are [[conjugate|conjugated]]. Let's call them P<sub>C</sub> and their starting location '''C'''.<br />
<br />
'''C''' = ('''J''' union '''K''') \ ('''H'''<sub>A</sub> union '''H'''<sub>B</sub>A' union '''H'''<sub>A'</sub>B union '''Q''')<br />
<br />
In the overlap case, either '''Q''' or '''C''' is non empty, so there are at least 4 sets of pieces: P<sub>A</sub>, P<sub>B</sub>, P<sub>N</sub> and P<sub>Q</sub> or P<sub>C</sub>. <br />
<br />
In complex cases, there may be five sets with both P<sub>Q</sub> and P<sub>C</sub>.<br />
<br />
The quirk part and the conjugated part are used as final locations for pieces that go outside of the pseudo 3-cycle.<br />
<br />
====== Example ======<br />
<br />
Let's consider [R', F']<br />
<br />
'''H'''<sub>A</sub> is the front-right edge and the front-right-bottom corner. So P<sub>N</sub> is the set of pieces at these locations.<br />
<br />
'''H'''<sub>B</sub> is the front-right edge and the front-right-top corner. So P<sub>A</sub> is the top-right edge and the top-right-back corner.<br />
<br />
'''H'''<sub>A'</sub> is the front-right edge and the front-right-top corner. So P<sub>B</sub> is the front-bottom edge only.<br />
<br />
The quirk part is :<br />
'''Q''' = ('''H'''<sub>A'</sub> \ '''H'''<sub>B</sub>) A' = empty<br />
<br />
The conjugated part is :<br />
<br />
'''C''' = ('''J''' union '''K''') \ ('''H'''<sub>A</sub> union '''H'''<sub>B</sub>A' union '''H'''<sub>A'</sub>B union '''Q''') = front-right-top corner and front-bottom-left corner<br />
<br />
The front-right-top is affected by R'F'R so it is equivalent to x'F'x which is U'.<br />
<br />
The front-bottom-left is affected by F'RF so it is equivalent to z'Rz whichi is D.<br />
<br />
So this move does :<br />
* P<sub>N</sub>, i.e. front-right edge and front-right-bottom corner, goes F<br />
* P<sub>A</sub>, i.e. top-right edge and top-right-back corner, goes R'<br />
* P<sub>B</sub>, i.e. front-bottom edge, goes F'R<br />
* the front-right-top corner goes U'<br />
* the front-bottom-left goes D<br />
<br />
== General case ==<br />
<br />
Pieces can be affected by one, two, three of four elements of the sequence A B A' B'. The gives use the different sets of pieces. For each element of the sequence, there are two possibilities, either a piece is affected by this element, or it is not. So there is a maximum of 2<sup>4</sup> = 16 sets.<br />
<br />
If a piece is not affected by any element, it means that it is completely outside of the commutator. <br />
<br />
=== Pieces affected by one element only ===<br />
<br />
If a piece is affected by A only, then it is not affected by B and then it is necessarily affected by A', so it is impossible. Same thing for B. If a piece is affected by A' only, it means that it was not affected by B before that, so that it was affected by A. Impossible again. If a piece is affected by B' only, it means that it was not affected by A' before that, so that it was affected by B. Impossible again.<br />
<br />
=== Pieces affected by two elements ===<br />
<br />
If a piece is affected by A and A', or by B and B', it means that it comes back finally where it comes from. We can ignore them.<br />
<br />
If a piece is affected by A and B only, it means that it is not affected by A', so it is necessarily affected by B'. Impossible. If a piece is affected by A and B' only, it is not affected by B, so it is necessarily affected by A'. Impossible again.<br />
<br />
If a piece is affected by B and A', it means that it is brought into the intersection by B. They are denoted P<sub>B</sub>.<br />
<br />
=== Pieces affected by three elements ===<br />
<br />
If a piece is affected by A and A' B', it means that it is hidden by A so that it is not affected by B. These pieces are denoted P<sub>N</sub> because they come from the intersection.<br />
<br />
If a piece is affected by A B and B', it means that it is brought into the intersection by A, and then hidden by B from A'. These pieces are denoted P<sub>A</sub>.<br />
<br />
If a piece is affected by B A' B', it means that it is brought into the intersection by B and then moved inplace by A. If a piece is affected by A B A', it means that it is affected by the conjugate of B. In both of these cases, let's denote them P<sub>C</sub> to express that they are affected by conjugates.<br />
<br />
=== Pieces affected by all four elements ===<br />
<br />
If a piece is affected by all four elements, it means that it is never hidden from the intersection. Thus it is in the quirk part. They are denoted P<sub>Q</sub>.<br />
<br />
=== Summary of sets of pieces ===<br />
<br />
In all cases, pieces that are moved by the commutator are in one of these sets:<br />
* P<sub>A</sub> : pieces moved into the intersection by A and then hidden by B<br />
* P<sub>B</sub> : pieces moved into the intersection by B and then hidden by A<br />
* P<sub>N</sub> : pieces hidden by A and then moved out of the intersection of B'<br />
* P<sub>C</sub> : pieces affected by a conjugate, in all inplace cases and some overlap cases<br />
* P<sub>Q</sub> : pieces moved by all elements of the sequence of the commutator, in complex inplace cases and some overlap case<br />
<br />
== Classification ==<br />
<br />
If P<sub>A</sub> is not empty, then B can hide pieces, thus P<sub>B</sub> is not empty either. Conversely, if P<sub>B</sub> is not empty, then P<sub>A</sub> is not empty. <br />
<br />
If P<sub>N</sub> is not empty, then A and B can hide pieces, thus P<sub>A</sub> and P<sub>B</sub> are not empty. Conversely if P<sub>A</sub> is not empty, it means that pieces are brought into the intersection so that pieces are brought out of the intersection by A, thus P<sub>N</sub> is not empty.<br />
<br />
So either the three sets P<sub>A</sub>, P<sub>B</sub> and P<sub>N</sub> are not empty or the three sets are empty. If these sets are empty, it means that at least A, B or both A and B move pieces inside the intersection '''N''' only. So it is either a trivial case or an inplace case. If both A and B move pieces inside the intersection, let's call it "double inplace".<br />
<br />
If it is an inplace case and not a "double inplace", then some pieces are affected by a commutator. Thus P<sub>C</sub> is not empty.<br />
<br />
If the sets P<sub>A</sub>, P<sub>B</sub> and P<sub>N</sub> are not empty, we cannot deduce anything about P<sub>Q</sub> or P<sub>C</sub>. If it is the no overlap case, then pieces are hidden either by A or B, so P<sub>Q</sub> is empty. Conversely, if P<sub>Q</sub> is empty, then pieces brought by A into the intersection are completely hidden by B. The inverse of the commutator B A B' A' shows that also A hides pieces brought by B, so that it is a no overlap case.<br />
<br />
So we get the following possible types of commutators:<br />
* trivial commutator which is equivalent to the identity: [L, R]<br />
* double inplace, A and B move pieces inside the intersection<br />
* single inplace without quirk part, the same transformation is applied twice (the second time in reverse order) without interference: corner twist, edge flip, double swap<br />
* single inplace with quirk part, there is an interference between the conjugated and the non conjugated version of the transformation: [M', U2]<br />
* no overlap, 3-cycle: [R' D' R, U']<br />
* overlap with quirk part and without conjugated part: [R', F]<br />
* overlap with conjugated part and without quirk part: [R', F']<br />
* overlap with both quirk and conjugated part<br />
<br />
== See also ==<br />
* [[Commutators and Conjugates]]<br />
* [[Conjugate]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Puzzle theory]]</div>PiotrGrochowskihttps://www.speedsolving.com/wiki/index.php?title=Lubrication&diff=33022Lubrication2017-09-17T18:29:15Z<p>PiotrGrochowski: </p>
<hr />
<div>A '''lubricant''' (or '''lube''') is a material which can be put in a [[puzzle]] to make it easier to turn or smoother. This page contains descriptions of different lubricants and specific suggestions for how to use them. In general, to lube a cube, you should apply the lubricant either by removing one piece and spraying it in, or by disassembling the cube completely and coating the pieces in lubricant. After lube is applied, it is usually best to not time a solve immediately, but rather give the lube a few minutes to work in. It is also recommended that you do not apply lube to very stiff cubes, as this can sometimes make them even harder to turn; instead, try putting vaseline in the cube, then after a week or two, clean it out and then lubricate it.<br />
<br />
The most important part of speedcubing, known to halve times for many people.<br />
<br />
The following two general terms are used to characterise the friction effects of a lubricant:<br />
* '''Static Friction''' - force required to initiate a turn.<br />
* '''Dynamic Friction''' - resistance felt during the turn.<br />
The range of lubricants available affect each of these aspects in differing degrees. For example, silicone oils tend to reduce static friction, while increasing dynamic friction.<br />
<br />
Choose the right lube, or it will make it worse. The right lube depends on player and cube. There is no single agreed-on recommendation.<br />
== Silicon-Based ==<br />
Silicon-based lubricants are a highly popular and effective way to lubricate cubes.<br />
Silicone sprays leave a smooth coat of lube over the cube's plastic to make it glide smoothly over other surfaces, thus making your cube turn smoother.<br />
<br />
===Cubicle Silicone Lube===<br />
There is a wide range of lubes from 5cc to 25cc, from Weight 5 to Weight 1. The heavier lube is better for the core (Weight 5,4,3) and the lighter lube is better for the pieces (Weight 3,2,1). [http://thecubicle.us/cubicle-silicone-lube-c-35_64.html: TheCubicle Silicone Lube]<br />
<br />
===Lubix Cube===<br />
A high viscosity pure silicone oil fluid. Very Effective and has risen to one of the most popular lubricants on sale. The lubricant is a little expensive but only very little is needed and it is said to last a very long time.<br />
<br />
The same silicone oil ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polydimethylsiloxane dimethylsiloxane fluid]) could be found at most local hobby stores with a much cheaper price, though missing Lubix's syringe.<br />
<br />
===Rubik's Lube===<br />
This is the lube that comes in a syringe-like container when you order from Rubiks.com.<br />
<br />
[https://www.rubiks.com/shop/product.php?pid=34 3x3]<br />
[https://www.rubiks.com/shop/product.php?pid=35 4x4]<br />
[https://www.rubiks.com/shop/product.php?pid=36 5x5]<br />
[https://www.rubiks.com/shop/product.php?pid=37 PVC]<br />
<br />
===Maru Lubricant===<br />
A white, milk like liquid. Works very well and is very popular. Huge performance increase on the spot even with only 1 or 2 drops.The lubricant tends to dry out quickly during a weeks period. Very Cheap and lasts for over 3 months per bottle.<br />
[http://www.lightake.com/detail.do/sku.30344~C.12332011TXFCIVEFR! Maru Lube at Lightake]<br />
<br />
===Cubesmith Lube===<br />
Cubesmith sells low and high viscosity lube [http://www.cubesmith.com/Lubricant.htm here]. Each syringe contains 5 cc of lube. It does not melt plastic like Jig-A-Loo, CRC, and vaseline can. If you are gonna use it, avoiding getting the lube on the stickers, as it may compromise the adhesive. Each order also comes with 2 Cubesmith logo stickers.<br />
<br />
===Jig-A-Loo===<br />
Used by many cubers, this lubricant works very well. However, it can melt plastic temporarily, so it is recommended that you completely disassemble your cube to lubricate it, and that you let the pieces dry well before reassembly. Available in the US and Canada. @see [http://www.jigaloo.com/us/e_products_jigaloo.php jigaloo.com], Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5129 The TRUTH about Jig-A-Loo] <br />
<br />
===CRC Silicone Spray===<br />
CRC silicon spray has been used by many cubers. This is a very good lubricant to use. It will dry out soon, but works well. It is known to eat cubes too, so use with caution. Available at Wal Mart in the US and Canada. Available at some hardware stores in Australia.<br />
<br />
===Tableau Dry Lube===<br />
A silicone-based spray lubricant, popular in the UK. Cheap to buy and often gets good reviews. [http://www.ebay.co.uk eBay.co.uk] is usually the best place to buy it online. Like most spray lubricants, its propellant can cause temporary melting of plastic, so it is recommended that the cube is disassembled to allow the lube to dry before use.<br />
@see [http://www.tableauproducts.com/ tableauproducts.com]<br />
<br />
===Shock Oil===<br />
Available worldwide, this comes in a range of viscosities and is 100% pure silicone oil. Mainly sold for radio controlled car shock absorbers. Available from [http://www.racingstate.com/shock-oil.html racingstate.com] in wt30 (UK only), or [http://www.towerhobbies.com towerhobbies.com] in a range of viscosities including [http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LX3303&P=7 wt10], [http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LX3304&P=M wt20] and [http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LX3305&P=M wt30] (shipping is expensive, but available worldwide).<br />
* Speedsolving.com : [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17011 What type of Shock oil]<br />
<br />
===Differential Oil===<br />
Differential oils of very high viscosity have been used successfully by some cubers. 50,000wt oils such as [http://www.amazon.com/Silicone-Diff-Oil-50-000/dp/B0006O7MII/ref=sr_1_1 this one] are reported to produce very good results. The right quantity is a small drop per cube, and applying more may make a cube slower and sticky. These oils are available in toy shops as well as [http://shop.ebay.com/?_from=R40&_trksid=m570&_nkw=50%2C000wt+silicone+diff+oil&_sacat=See-All-Categories on eBay].<br />
* [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?30890-High-Viscosity-Differential-Oil-Thread&highlight=differential New Speedsolving.com discussion]<br />
<br />
===Maplin Silicone Grease with PTFE===<br />
Works well on [[DIY]] cubes, and is easy to find in the UK. Comes in a spray can with extension tube for lazy lubing. @see [http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=30030&C=SO&U=strat15 maplin.co.uk]<br />
<br />
===Armour All original protectant===<br />
It is silicone based, and pretty good, but sometimes causes the cube to gunk up when overlubed. It is recommended that you wipe off excess lubricant after using. @see [http://www.armorall.com/products/view_product.php?product_id=8 armorall.com]<br />
<br />
===Other silicone lubricants===<br />
*Calvin Puzzles Lube - available from hknowstore.com and puzzleaddictions,com<br />
*W5 Silicone Oil - available from LIDL stores across Europe<br />
* [http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_214714_langId_-1_categoryId_165750 3 in 1 silicone spray] - Takes a while to dry. Available in UK hardware stores such as Halfords. It also leaves a very sticky feel to it, even after it has dried.<br />
* Wynn's Silicone Lube - From 'A1', a UK motoring spares store.<br />
* Rapide silicone spray - Available from UK stores.<br />
* [http://www.griffon.nl/nl-nl/producten/928-smeermiddelen-vetten/product/945-siliconenvet Griffon] - Available in the Netherlands<br />
* [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4695 Prestone]<br />
* [http://www.spraywayinc.com/products.php?id=945 Sprayway]<br />
* Gyrolon Universal Silikonspray - Available in the german dicounter ALDI<br />
* OK/Q8 SILKON SPRAY, avaiable in Sweden, much like CRC but does not dry out as fast.<br />
<br />
== PFPE-Based ==<br />
Perfluoropolyethers are a class of synthetic oils invented by DuPont. They are mainly used in the aerospace industry for their exceptional resistance to degrading by chemical attack and high temperatures. Its use in speed cubing provides the non-damaging benefits of silicone-based oils but with the added advantage of lasting much longer due to the material's very low evaporation rate.<br />
<br />
===T-1===<br />
T-Minus One Speed Cube Oil comes with a 5ml bottle of PFPE and molybdenum disulfide core grease in a syringe. Sold on [http://www.amazon.com/T-Minus-OneTM-Speed-Cube-PFPE/dp/B00T14SKCQ Amazon]<br />
<br />
== Petroleum-Based ==<br />
These include lubricants such as vaseline, WD-40, or Liquid Wrench. It is '''recommended that you do not use these, but if you really want to, use them with caution''', as petroleum and petroleum distillates speed the aging of plastic, and may dissolve the plastic resulting in destruction of the pieces and the internal mechanism. Excessive uses of these lubricants often lead to the center mechanism breaking apart completely. Some, however, have reported success using petroleum based lubricants to speed up [[breaking in]] of new cubes. It would be best if you have a tight cube (Rubik's brand) to lube it will a petroleum based jelly for about a month. Then take it all a part and [[cleaning]] it and use a silicone base lubricant. <br />
<br />
===Vaseline===<br />
Goopy and well known, this is not the best lube. Being a petroleum based lubricant it will speed the deterioration of the pieces as well as the internal mechanism. Some people recommend using vaseline for a while to wear down the inside of the cube (almost like breaking in the cube) before using other lubricants.<br />
<br />
===WD-40===<br />
Known for damaging cubes by wearing the pieces in and making them harder to turn, this does not actually act as a lubricant for the plastic at all. However, there have been some success stories of WD-40 being used on cubes and making them smoother.<br />
It is recommended you '''do not use this'''. If you must, however, you should wash or wipe it off after about half an hour.<br />
<br />
===Liquid Wrench and WD-40 Silicone===<br />
Even though Liquid Wrench and WD-40 silicone says Silicone Spray on the can, it still contains petroleum distillates. The lubricants also have a very petroleum-like smell and will stay there. Liquid Wrench and WD-40 silicone sprays are not odorless. Do not use them. It contains less than 5% of silicone.<br />
<br />
== Miscellaneous Other Lubricants ==<br />
<br />
=== Cooking No-stick Spray ===<br />
Yes, PAM. Not necessarily the cleanest or best thing to use, it works nonetheless. It will slowly eat the plastic but not nearly as fast as petroleum based products. It is recommended you clean out your cube frequently if you use this.<br />
<br />
=== White Lithium Grease ===<br />
There are some mixed results of this lubricant, but it does work fairly well. The cube will have a sticky feeling after using it, though it wears off after some [[breaking-in]].<br />
<br />
=== Furniture Polish ===<br />
Some furniture polishes such as [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mr._Sheen Mr Sheen] and [http://www.uclean.com/catalog/productInfo/chemicals/polishes/johnson_shine_up_polish_32_oz_lemon.html Shine-Up Polish] contain silicone and can be a cheap and widely available lubricant. Reviews are mixed with some reporting a positive result, while others aren't convinced.<br />
<br />
=== Graphite Powder ===<br />
A dry, oil-free solution. Reduces the 'sticky' feeling, but causes cube to turn less smoothly.<br />
<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vbfKLIbS1A&index=55&list=FLo5annlK5ht7WYKDASovFvA: Comparasion of Cubicle Lubes] - a good video about the types<br />
* YouTube: [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ppbBM11UYc How to lubricate a Rubik's cube] - standard method (by Jh543)<br />
* YouTube: [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2v0UiJsXb8A How to Lube Your Rubik's Cube] - standard method, inc 4x4x4 (by VanquishSDude)<br />
* YouTube: [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tarWH5BCZVw How to Lube Your Cube] - disassembling the cube (by biggajigga721)<br />
* YouTube: [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JtOHpSyfjd8 Rubik's Cube Lubrication experiment] (by badmephisto)<br />
<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5584 Which silicone lubricant to use, and where to get?]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=15450 Jigaloo Vs Crc]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=9801 What Lube and Where to get it from?] (UK Lube)<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=12822 UK Cubing Lubricant]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=14477 Shock Oil]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=9380 Lubricant Other than Silicone Spray]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=23260 Shock Oil VS. CRC Silicone Spray]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?38138-Survey-What-kind-of-lube-do-you-use Survey]<br />
<br />
* [http://www.lightake.com/products.do/category.Wholesale_Lubricant-174~c.12332011TXFCIVEFR! Lightake Lubricant]<br />
* Wikipedia: [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Friction Friction]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Puzzle hardware]]</div>PiotrGrochowskihttps://www.speedsolving.com/wiki/index.php?title=Lubrication&diff=33021Lubrication2017-09-17T18:26:53Z<p>PiotrGrochowski: </p>
<hr />
<div>A '''lubricant''' (or '''lube''') is a material which can be put in a [[puzzle]] to make it easier to turn or smoother. This page contains descriptions of different lubricants and specific suggestions for how to use them. In general, to lube a cube, you should apply the lubricant either by removing one piece and spraying it in, or by disassembling the cube completely and coating the pieces in lubricant. After lube is applied, it is usually best to not time a solve immediately, but rather give the lube a few minutes to work in. It is also recommended that you do not apply lube to very stiff cubes, as this can sometimes make them even harder to turn; instead, try putting vaseline in the cube, then after a week or two, clean it out and then lubricate it.<br />
<br />
<br />
The following two general terms are used to characterise the friction effects of a lubricant:<br />
* '''Static Friction''' - force required to initiate a turn.<br />
* '''Dynamic Friction''' - resistance felt during the turn.<br />
The range of lubricants available affect each of these aspects in differing degrees. For example, silicone oils tend to reduce static friction, while increasing dynamic friction.<br />
<br />
Choose the right lube, or it will make it worse. The right lube depends on player and cube. There is no single agreed-on recommendation.<br />
== Silicon-Based ==<br />
Silicon-based lubricants are a highly popular and effective way to lubricate cubes.<br />
Silicone sprays leave a smooth coat of lube over the cube's plastic to make it glide smoothly over other surfaces, thus making your cube turn smoother.<br />
<br />
===Cubicle Silicone Lube===<br />
There is a wide range of lubes from 5cc to 25cc, from Weight 5 to Weight 1. The heavier lube is better for the core (Weight 5,4,3) and the lighter lube is better for the pieces (Weight 3,2,1). [http://thecubicle.us/cubicle-silicone-lube-c-35_64.html: TheCubicle Silicone Lube]<br />
<br />
===Lubix Cube===<br />
A high viscosity pure silicone oil fluid. Very Effective and has risen to one of the most popular lubricants on sale. The lubricant is a little expensive but only very little is needed and it is said to last a very long time.<br />
<br />
The same silicone oil ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polydimethylsiloxane dimethylsiloxane fluid]) could be found at most local hobby stores with a much cheaper price, though missing Lubix's syringe.<br />
<br />
===Rubik's Lube===<br />
This is the lube that comes in a syringe-like container when you order from Rubiks.com.<br />
<br />
[https://www.rubiks.com/shop/product.php?pid=34 3x3]<br />
[https://www.rubiks.com/shop/product.php?pid=35 4x4]<br />
[https://www.rubiks.com/shop/product.php?pid=36 5x5]<br />
[https://www.rubiks.com/shop/product.php?pid=37 PVC]<br />
<br />
===Maru Lubricant===<br />
A white, milk like liquid. Works very well and is very popular. Huge performance increase on the spot even with only 1 or 2 drops.The lubricant tends to dry out quickly during a weeks period. Very Cheap and lasts for over 3 months per bottle.<br />
[http://www.lightake.com/detail.do/sku.30344~C.12332011TXFCIVEFR! Maru Lube at Lightake]<br />
<br />
===Cubesmith Lube===<br />
Cubesmith sells low and high viscosity lube [http://www.cubesmith.com/Lubricant.htm here]. Each syringe contains 5 cc of lube. It does not melt plastic like Jig-A-Loo, CRC, and vaseline can. If you are gonna use it, avoiding getting the lube on the stickers, as it may compromise the adhesive. Each order also comes with 2 Cubesmith logo stickers.<br />
<br />
===Jig-A-Loo===<br />
Used by many cubers, this lubricant works very well. However, it can melt plastic temporarily, so it is recommended that you completely disassemble your cube to lubricate it, and that you let the pieces dry well before reassembly. Available in the US and Canada. @see [http://www.jigaloo.com/us/e_products_jigaloo.php jigaloo.com], Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5129 The TRUTH about Jig-A-Loo] <br />
<br />
===CRC Silicone Spray===<br />
CRC silicon spray has been used by many cubers. This is a very good lubricant to use. It will dry out soon, but works well. It is known to eat cubes too, so use with caution. Available at Wal Mart in the US and Canada. Available at some hardware stores in Australia.<br />
<br />
===Tableau Dry Lube===<br />
A silicone-based spray lubricant, popular in the UK. Cheap to buy and often gets good reviews. [http://www.ebay.co.uk eBay.co.uk] is usually the best place to buy it online. Like most spray lubricants, its propellant can cause temporary melting of plastic, so it is recommended that the cube is disassembled to allow the lube to dry before use.<br />
@see [http://www.tableauproducts.com/ tableauproducts.com]<br />
<br />
===Shock Oil===<br />
Available worldwide, this comes in a range of viscosities and is 100% pure silicone oil. Mainly sold for radio controlled car shock absorbers. Available from [http://www.racingstate.com/shock-oil.html racingstate.com] in wt30 (UK only), or [http://www.towerhobbies.com towerhobbies.com] in a range of viscosities including [http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LX3303&P=7 wt10], [http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LX3304&P=M wt20] and [http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LX3305&P=M wt30] (shipping is expensive, but available worldwide).<br />
* Speedsolving.com : [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17011 What type of Shock oil]<br />
<br />
===Differential Oil===<br />
Differential oils of very high viscosity have been used successfully by some cubers. 50,000wt oils such as [http://www.amazon.com/Silicone-Diff-Oil-50-000/dp/B0006O7MII/ref=sr_1_1 this one] are reported to produce very good results. The right quantity is a small drop per cube, and applying more may make a cube slower and sticky. These oils are available in toy shops as well as [http://shop.ebay.com/?_from=R40&_trksid=m570&_nkw=50%2C000wt+silicone+diff+oil&_sacat=See-All-Categories on eBay].<br />
* [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?30890-High-Viscosity-Differential-Oil-Thread&highlight=differential New Speedsolving.com discussion]<br />
<br />
===Maplin Silicone Grease with PTFE===<br />
Works well on [[DIY]] cubes, and is easy to find in the UK. Comes in a spray can with extension tube for lazy lubing. @see [http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=30030&C=SO&U=strat15 maplin.co.uk]<br />
<br />
===Armour All original protectant===<br />
It is silicone based, and pretty good, but sometimes causes the cube to gunk up when overlubed. It is recommended that you wipe off excess lubricant after using. @see [http://www.armorall.com/products/view_product.php?product_id=8 armorall.com]<br />
<br />
===Other silicone lubricants===<br />
*Calvin Puzzles Lube - available from hknowstore.com and puzzleaddictions,com<br />
*W5 Silicone Oil - available from LIDL stores across Europe<br />
* [http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_214714_langId_-1_categoryId_165750 3 in 1 silicone spray] - Takes a while to dry. Available in UK hardware stores such as Halfords. It also leaves a very sticky feel to it, even after it has dried.<br />
* Wynn's Silicone Lube - From 'A1', a UK motoring spares store.<br />
* Rapide silicone spray - Available from UK stores.<br />
* [http://www.griffon.nl/nl-nl/producten/928-smeermiddelen-vetten/product/945-siliconenvet Griffon] - Available in the Netherlands<br />
* [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4695 Prestone]<br />
* [http://www.spraywayinc.com/products.php?id=945 Sprayway]<br />
* Gyrolon Universal Silikonspray - Available in the german dicounter ALDI<br />
* OK/Q8 SILKON SPRAY, avaiable in Sweden, much like CRC but does not dry out as fast.<br />
<br />
== PFPE-Based ==<br />
Perfluoropolyethers are a class of synthetic oils invented by DuPont. They are mainly used in the aerospace industry for their exceptional resistance to degrading by chemical attack and high temperatures. Its use in speed cubing provides the non-damaging benefits of silicone-based oils but with the added advantage of lasting much longer due to the material's very low evaporation rate.<br />
<br />
===T-1===<br />
T-Minus One Speed Cube Oil comes with a 5ml bottle of PFPE and molybdenum disulfide core grease in a syringe. Sold on [http://www.amazon.com/T-Minus-OneTM-Speed-Cube-PFPE/dp/B00T14SKCQ Amazon]<br />
<br />
== Petroleum-Based ==<br />
These include lubricants such as vaseline, WD-40, or Liquid Wrench. It is '''recommended that you do not use these, but if you really want to, use them with caution''', as petroleum and petroleum distillates speed the aging of plastic, and may dissolve the plastic resulting in destruction of the pieces and the internal mechanism. Excessive uses of these lubricants often lead to the center mechanism breaking apart completely. Some, however, have reported success using petroleum based lubricants to speed up [[breaking in]] of new cubes. It would be best if you have a tight cube (Rubik's brand) to lube it will a petroleum based jelly for about a month. Then take it all a part and [[cleaning]] it and use a silicone base lubricant. <br />
<br />
===Vaseline===<br />
Goopy and well known, this is not the best lube. Being a petroleum based lubricant it will speed the deterioration of the pieces as well as the internal mechanism. Some people recommend using vaseline for a while to wear down the inside of the cube (almost like breaking in the cube) before using other lubricants.<br />
<br />
===WD-40===<br />
Known for damaging cubes by wearing the pieces in and making them harder to turn, this does not actually act as a lubricant for the plastic at all. However, there have been some success stories of WD-40 being used on cubes and making them smoother.<br />
It is recommended you '''do not use this'''. If you must, however, you should wash or wipe it off after about half an hour.<br />
<br />
===Liquid Wrench and WD-40 Silicone===<br />
Even though Liquid Wrench and WD-40 silicone says Silicone Spray on the can, it still contains petroleum distillates. The lubricants also have a very petroleum-like smell and will stay there. Liquid Wrench and WD-40 silicone sprays are not odorless. Do not use them. It contains less than 5% of silicone.<br />
<br />
== Miscellaneous Other Lubricants ==<br />
<br />
=== Cooking No-stick Spray ===<br />
Yes, PAM. Not necessarily the cleanest or best thing to use, it works nonetheless. It will slowly eat the plastic but not nearly as fast as petroleum based products. It is recommended you clean out your cube frequently if you use this.<br />
<br />
=== White Lithium Grease ===<br />
There are some mixed results of this lubricant, but it does work fairly well. The cube will have a sticky feeling after using it, though it wears off after some [[breaking-in]].<br />
<br />
=== Furniture Polish ===<br />
Some furniture polishes such as [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mr._Sheen Mr Sheen] and [http://www.uclean.com/catalog/productInfo/chemicals/polishes/johnson_shine_up_polish_32_oz_lemon.html Shine-Up Polish] contain silicone and can be a cheap and widely available lubricant. Reviews are mixed with some reporting a positive result, while others aren't convinced.<br />
<br />
=== Graphite Powder ===<br />
A dry, oil-free solution. Reduces the 'sticky' feeling, but causes cube to turn less smoothly.<br />
<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vbfKLIbS1A&index=55&list=FLo5annlK5ht7WYKDASovFvA: Comparasion of Cubicle Lubes] - a good video about the types<br />
* YouTube: [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ppbBM11UYc How to lubricate a Rubik's cube] - standard method (by Jh543)<br />
* YouTube: [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2v0UiJsXb8A How to Lube Your Rubik's Cube] - standard method, inc 4x4x4 (by VanquishSDude)<br />
* YouTube: [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tarWH5BCZVw How to Lube Your Cube] - disassembling the cube (by biggajigga721)<br />
* YouTube: [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JtOHpSyfjd8 Rubik's Cube Lubrication experiment] (by badmephisto)<br />
<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5584 Which silicone lubricant to use, and where to get?]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=15450 Jigaloo Vs Crc]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=9801 What Lube and Where to get it from?] (UK Lube)<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=12822 UK Cubing Lubricant]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=14477 Shock Oil]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=9380 Lubricant Other than Silicone Spray]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?t=23260 Shock Oil VS. CRC Silicone Spray]<br />
* Speedsolving.com: [http://www.speedsolving.com/forum/showthread.php?38138-Survey-What-kind-of-lube-do-you-use Survey]<br />
<br />
* [http://www.lightake.com/products.do/category.Wholesale_Lubricant-174~c.12332011TXFCIVEFR! Lightake Lubricant]<br />
* Wikipedia: [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Friction Friction]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Puzzle hardware]]</div>PiotrGrochowskihttps://www.speedsolving.com/wiki/index.php?title=LL:EO_cube_state&diff=33017LL:EO cube state2017-09-17T15:06:50Z<p>PiotrGrochowski: /* Previous Steps */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Cube state Infobox<br />
|name=LL:EO<br />
|image=<br />
|anames=[[Yellow Cross of LL cube state]] <br />
|subgroup=<br />
|esubgroup=<br />
|csubgroup=<br />
|previous=<sup></sup><br />
* Many others<br />
|next=<sup></sup><br />
* Many others<br />
|previoussteps=[[LL:EO cube state#Previous_Steps|Steps before the LL:EO cube state]]<br />
|nextsteps=[[LL:EO cube state#Next_Steps|Steps after the LL:EO cube state]]<br />
}}<br />
<br />
{{work}}<br />
<br />
'''LL:EO cube state''' is a state of a cube that involves having the first two layers of the cube solved as well as having the top layer edges oriented.<br />
<br />
<br />
==Previous Steps==<br />
An algorithm F U R U' R' F' may be used to transform an up/left bird shape to yellow cross.<br />
<br />
An algorithm F R U R' U' F' may be used to transform a horizontal stroke shape to yellow cross.<br />
<br />
==Next Steps==</div>PiotrGrochowskihttps://www.speedsolving.com/wiki/index.php?title=LL:EO_cube_state&diff=33016LL:EO cube state2017-09-17T15:06:14Z<p>PiotrGrochowski: /* Previous Steps */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Cube state Infobox<br />
|name=LL:EO<br />
|image=<br />
|anames=[[Yellow Cross of LL cube state]] <br />
|subgroup=<br />
|esubgroup=<br />
|csubgroup=<br />
|previous=<sup></sup><br />
* Many others<br />
|next=<sup></sup><br />
* Many others<br />
|previoussteps=[[LL:EO cube state#Previous_Steps|Steps before the LL:EO cube state]]<br />
|nextsteps=[[LL:EO cube state#Next_Steps|Steps after the LL:EO cube state]]<br />
}}<br />
<br />
{{work}}<br />
<br />
'''LL:EO cube state''' is a state of a cube that involves having the first two layers of the cube solved as well as having the top layer edges oriented.<br />
<br />
<br />
==Previous Steps==<br />
An algorithm F U R U' R' F' may be used to transform an up/left wing shape to yellow cross.<br />
<br />
An algorithm F R U R' U' F' may be used to transform a horizontal stroke shape to yellow cross.<br />
<br />
==Next Steps==</div>PiotrGrochowskihttps://www.speedsolving.com/wiki/index.php?title=LL:EO_cube_state&diff=33015LL:EO cube state2017-09-17T15:05:33Z<p>PiotrGrochowski: /* Previous Steps */</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Cube state Infobox<br />
|name=LL:EO<br />
|image=<br />
|anames=[[Yellow Cross of LL cube state]] <br />
|subgroup=<br />
|esubgroup=<br />
|csubgroup=<br />
|previous=<sup></sup><br />
* Many others<br />
|next=<sup></sup><br />
* Many others<br />
|previoussteps=[[LL:EO cube state#Previous_Steps|Steps before the LL:EO cube state]]<br />
|nextsteps=[[LL:EO cube state#Next_Steps|Steps after the LL:EO cube state]]<br />
}}<br />
<br />
{{work}}<br />
<br />
'''LL:EO cube state''' is a state of a cube that involves having the first two layers of the cube solved as well as having the top layer edges oriented.<br />
<br />
<br />
==Previous Steps==<br />
An algorithm F U R U' R' F' may be used to transform a wing shape to yellow cross.<br />
<br />
An algorithm F R U R' U' F' may be used to transform a stroke shape to yellow cross.<br />
<br />
==Next Steps==</div>PiotrGrochowski