The standard 8-λ (Gell-Mann matrix) method obeys the same mathematical rules as a Lie algebra, but QCD as practiced is not one — it has no geometric representation. The Hermitian-adjoint shortcut for anti-particles is excluded a-priori by the Harari–Seiberg causality criterion, so experimental-math extensions of the current 8-λ methods are doomed from the start. The ICT reconstruction proceeds in three stages, arrayed left to right below.
One corner cubie replaces one λ-matrix. Each cubie carries three states ( + / 0 / − ), which handles particle, neutral, and anti-particle configurations geometrically — no Hermitian adjoint required.
Two cubies in interaction: state exchanges along shared edges model gluon-like couplings. This is where the communication problem with the standard picture becomes visible — the algebra of exchanges is constructive, not matrix-multiplicative.
All eight corner cubies assembled: the complete geometric replacement of the 8-λ method. A genuine geometric representation — hence a genuine Lie-algebraic solution — with the proton as its first physical target.
ICT constructions apply at the QCD and QWD levels only. Nuclei belong to the QED scale; the Proton Video (below) is the flagship illustration at the QCD scale. Planck-scale geometries are strictly a-priori gedanken exercises and remain outside the working program. Each scale's draft dev page carries its governing equations and a rough current-problems list — select them from the Fundamental-Formula slider on the landing page.