Math Is Fun Forum

henrycfa

Member

Registered: 2010-05-17

Posts: 4

4x4x4 table rotation problem

I must organize four monthly dinners (June, July, August, September) of four tables for four guests (course: host, salad, vegetable, and dessert) where no one eats together more than once and no one has to host more than once.  This is a table rotation problem that MUST have a formula to easily figure out the seating.  I just can't seem to get it.  I don't know whether this is array math or matrix math...HELP!!  Again the problem is to find the formula to easily plot out which table a person will sit for each monthly meal and which course he will bring - all without having any duplications or overlaps.
Thanks!!

bobbym

bumpkin

From: Bumpkinland

Registered: 2009-04-12

Posts: 109,606

Re: 4x4x4 table rotation problem

Hi

You are planning a progressive dinner? Go here please:

http://www.mathisfunforum.com/viewtopic … 79#p114379

---

In mathematics, you don't understand things. You just get used to them.
If it ain't broke, fix it until it is.
Always satisfy the Prime Directive of getting the right answer above all else.

henrycfa

Member

Registered: 2010-05-17

Posts: 4

Re: 4x4x4 table rotation problem

Excellent!  That certainly works!  Thanks!  Now, how is it done?

bobbym

bumpkin

From: Bumpkinland

Registered: 2009-04-12

Posts: 109,606

Re: 4x4x4 table rotation problem

By computer and human intervention is how I did it. This is covered under block incomplete diagrams and Steiner systems but that won't be much help for you as it is difficult. I can generate more for you if you need them. Just ask.

---

In mathematics, you don't understand things. You just get used to them.
If it ain't broke, fix it until it is.
Always satisfy the Prime Directive of getting the right answer above all else.

henrycfa

Member

Registered: 2010-05-17

Posts: 4

Re: 4x4x4 table rotation problem

Thanks again.  The next challenge will be five tables of four for four months!  But not this year...

bobbym

bumpkin

From: Bumpkinland

Registered: 2009-04-12

Posts: 109,606

Re: 4x4x4 table rotation problem

Hi;

Some combinations do not have a solution. Glad you got what you wanted.

---

In mathematics, you don't understand things. You just get used to them.
If it ain't broke, fix it until it is.
Always satisfy the Prime Directive of getting the right answer above all else.