The Puzzling World of Polyhedral Dissections
By Stewart T. Coffin

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Chapter 11 - Puzzles that Make Different Shapes
The Star of David Puzzle

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The six dissimilar and non-symmetrical pieces of the Star of David Puzzle are shown in Fig. 123a. The 27 individual blocks required in their construction are all standard building blocks from the chart in Chapter 9 and are identified by letter. This unusual puzzle assembles into three different geometrical shapes having an axis of symmetry, as well as other nondescript shapes having no apparent symmetry. All solutions have just one sliding axis of assembly. In the solution from which the puzzle derives its name, the assembly axis does not coincide with the axis of symmetry. Consequently, one blindly tries various combinations looking for the solution. Even as the correct two halves are being mated to complete the assembly, it still looks like the sort of jumble one associates with "abstract sculpture". But as they mesh together, suddenly there the solution is! This unusual and baffling puzzle presents a challenge for the skilled woodworker as well as the solver, for it is more difficult than most to fabricate well with a proper fit. The Star of David Puzzle in Fig.

fig123a

Fig. 123a

fig123b

Fig. 123b

©1990-2005 by Stewart T. Coffin
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