Three-dimensional arch puzzle

Abstract

An arch puzzle includes a base having a substantially flat upper surface, a first ridge protruding upward from the upper surface at a first side, and a second ridge protruding upward from the upper surface at a second side. A notch is defined the first and second ridge. An arch support has a semi-circular block shape, dimensioned to receive a 6″ protractor on a face thereof. A plurality of arch pieces each have a keystone shape, and are preferably identically shaped. At least a first pair of shims each include an elongated body having a tapered upper surface and a horizontal lower surface. Each of the shims have an opening at a second end of the shim to facilitate removal of the shims from the puzzle.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . An arch puzzle comprising:
 a base comprising a substantially flat upper surface, a first ridge protruding upward from the upper surface at a first side, and a second ridge protruding upward from the upper surface at a second side, wherein a notch is defined therebetween;   an arch support having a semi-circular block shape;   a plurality of arch pieces having an identical keystone shape; and   at least a first pair of shims each comprising an elongated body a length, a width, and a depth, the depth gradually increasing from a first end to a second end defining a sloped upper surface and a horizontal lower surface, wherein the sloped upper surfaces of the first pair of shims are placed against each other to form a rectangular cuboid shape.   
     
     
         2 . The arch puzzle of  claim 1 , further comprising a second pair of shims each comprising an elongated body having a sloped upper surface and a horizontal lower surface. 
     
     
         3 . The arch puzzle of  claim 2 , wherein each of the first pair of shims and the second pair of shims comprise an opening defined at the second end. 
     
     
         4 . The arch puzzle of  claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of arch pieces are made of clay or stones. 
     
     
         5 . The arch puzzle of  claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of arch pieces are of identical dimensions. 
     
     
         6 . The arch puzzle of  claim 5 , wherein the plurality of arch pieces includes thirteen shaped arch pieces. 
     
     
         7 . The arch puzzle of  claim 6 , wherein each of the plurality of arch pieces have a sidewall length of about 1.5 inches, an inner edge length of about 9/16 inches, and an outer edge length of about ⅞ inches.