Qiyi Kong Ming Lock

QiYi Kong Ming Lock

QiYi Kong Ming Lock is a puzzle from the family of Chinese locks, also known as Luban Locks or burr puzzles. Several pieces interlock to form one closed shape. There is no glue, no screws and no magnets. First you need to find a way to take the shape apart, and then put it back together in the right order. The name comes from Zhuge Liang, also known as Kongming. Tradition credits him with locks like these, but there is no historical evidence for it.

How the puzzle works

At first the puzzle looks like a solid block, and you can't tell which piece moves. Usually one piece is the "key": it slides or comes out first. Only after that can you remove the next ones. Taking it apart is often easier than putting it back together. The pieces look similar, but each has different notches and fits in only one place. Spatial imagination and a bit of patience help. Strength or speed won't get you anywhere here.

Versions #1-#16

We offer 16 versions, numbered #1 to #16. Each number is a different puzzle: a different shape when assembled, a different number of pieces and a different way of taking it apart. That's why the versions also differ in difficulty. Kong Ming Locks are great for collecting, because once you solve one version, you can pick up the next one, which works differently.

Who is it for?

For anyone who enjoys mechanical puzzles and wants a break from cubes. There are no algorithms to learn here, it's all about figuring things out. Kong Ming Lock is suitable for a child who loves brain teasers and makes a nice small gift for an adult. It fits in your hand, so you can take it with you when travelling or keep it on your desk.

Specifications

• Type: Kong Ming Lock puzzle (burr puzzle)
• Manufacturer: QiYi
• Size: approx. 66 mm
• Dimensions: approx. 6.44 x 6.32 x 6.3 cm
• Available versions: #1-#16
• In the box: puzzle