Cubic Fusion

When Juno learned from a puzzle book his older brother borrowed from the library that 3x3x3 + 4x4x4 + 5x5x5 = 6x6x6, he was excited, wondering if such a convenient thing could possibly be true. Back then, as a junior high school student, he made a wooden version of the puzzle featured in the book and played with it. However, he found the puzzle somewhat too simple and thought the effort to build it wasn't quite justified. The requirement to divide it into the minimum eight pieces necessary to form a 6x6x6 cube likely overly restricted the orientation and position of the pieces, thereby reducing the puzzle's difficulty.

In his latest design, all pieces are divided into rectangular blocks. Forming the three cubes of 3x3x3, 4x4x4, and 5x5x5 is relatively straightforward. However, constructing the 6x6x6 cube may prove challenging for some. While a lucky solver might arrive at the solution in about five minutes, it is anticipated that others may wrestle with the puzzle for around an hour.

This puzzle embodies Juno's wish to share the joy of mathematics with children. He hopes that, much like how he was captivated as a child, this puzzle can serve as an opportunity for others to encounter the wonders and depth hidden within numbers and shapes.

For the cubes, starting with the smallest, woods with distinctive grain and texture are used: Zebrano, Silky Oak, and New Guinea Walnut. The Camphor Laurel used for the box is also unique, with a great variety of patterns, offering differences that make it hard to believe they are from the same type of wood.

The solution to this puzzle will be supplied upon request.

Size: 72 mm x 72 mm x 72 mm (Cube)

Number of pieces: 10 + Box

Material: New Guinea Walnut, Silky Oak, Zebrano, Camphor Laurel, and Bamboo Plywood

Designer: Junichi Yananose (Juno)

Origin: Made in Australia

Ages: 6+