Hanani triple systems

Abstract

Hanani triple systems onv≡1 (mod 6) elements are Steiner triple systems having (v−1)/2 pairwise disjoint almost parallel classes (sets of pairwise disjoint triples that spanv−1 elements), and the remaining triples form a partial parallel class. Hanani triple systems are one natural analogue of the Kirkman triple systems onv≡3 (mod 6) elements, which form the solution of the celebrated Kirkman schoolgirl problem. We prove that a Hanani triple system exists for allv≡1 (mod 6) except forv ∈ {7, 13}.