[click on picture for assembly drawings]

The thumb extension is a device that will consist of two parts: the thumb extender and the extender support.  The actual thumb extension has three layers: liner, cap, and a layer of grip material.  This part of the design will cover only Jordan's thumb.  The thumb extender will be held in place by attaching it to an extender support, which consists of an elastic breathable material that goes around her hand and wrist.  A velcro strap will also be wrapped around her wrist to help keep the thumb extender in place.  By covering only the thumb, lower hand, and wrist, Jordan will be able to maintain her full range of motion.  The materials for the thumb extender are defined below. 

Liner - The liner is a smooth, soft, and flexible material that will be used to reduce friction between the skin and the cap.

Cap - The cap is the rigid center layer that will make Jordan's thumb longer and allow her to use her thumb more effectively.  This center layer is made out of aquaplast.  Aquaplast is used by doctors to splint fractures and other injuries that may require a rigid material for support. This material is easily formed by hearing it in hot water, shaping it to the desired form, and then allowing it to cool.

Grip Material- The outside layer is latex, similar to that used to provide gripping surface on some common tools such as pliers.