A set of steps engineers follow to solve a challenge is called an engineering process. It is highly iterative and some parts of the process may be repeated multiple times in one project. The specific framing, articulation and frame of the steps that get iterated will vary.
The first step is to research. This includes finding information that can be used to identify needs and the limitations. It is an essential part of the engineering design process since it helps engineers find the best solution for the given problem.
Once researchers have enough information they can begin brainstorming ideas for solutions to the problem. This can be done in a number of ways, and is where engineering creativity truly thrives. This is the point at which possible solutions are evaluated and then analyzed. This could include simulation studies, constructing decision matrixes and even making prototypes to test.
In this phase students choose one of their most creative ideas and devise a plan to create it. They then build the prototype using the required materials and then test it against their http://emjay-eng.com/generated-post performance requirements. Students may have to test and modify their prototype to make sure it works exactly as they intended.
This is a great way to teach the importance of problem solving and iteration. Engineers are known to come up with an idea that they test and then come across a new problem. The process continues until the engineer comes up with an answer that meets their expectations.