Mechanical design problem-solving methods: Do designers commonly use multiple approaches—such as brainstorming, benchmarking, sketching, prototyping, and analysis—to solve mechanical design problems?

Introduction / Context:
Mechanical design rarely follows a single linear path. Teams explore ideas, compare concepts, and iterate to meet performance, cost, and manufacturability goals. This question verifies awareness of common creative and analytical methods used together in practice.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Designers aim to satisfy functional requirements and constraints.
• Time and budget limit the breadth of exploration.
• Structured creativity techniques are applied alongside engineering analysis.

Concept / Approach:
Brainstorming promotes divergent thinking; benchmarking reveals prior art and best practices; sketching communicates quickly; prototyping validates feasibility; analysis (hand calcs, FEA, CFD) quantifies performance. Combining these methods yields robust, innovative designs aligned with requirements.

Step-by-Step Solution:

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