Engineering is the process of developing plans to manufacture or construct devices, processes, structures or machinery which helps accomplish certain needs.
Simply put: Engineering is the application of technical knowledge towards the creation of something useful.
An invention is a unique or novel device, method, composition or process. The invention process is a process within an overall engineering and product development process. It may be an improvement upon a machine or product or a new process for creating an object or a result.
Innovation is something fresh (new, original, or improved) that creates value
Identify the need or problem that exists in society that can be solved with engineering and what processes can be improved through engineering.
Research the need or problem: You will need to look at existing solutions and analyze why they are not adequate. Constraints and limitations are identified in this stage of the process.
Develop possible solutions Coming up with an optimal solution requires analytical thinking and creativity. Brainstorm ideas and be open to even the most ridiculous of ideas as these can lead to meaningful ideas and solutions.
Select the best possible solution Systematic decision making where two choices are compared and advantages and disadvantages are evaluated. Computational decision making where certain criteria is ranked and compared
Construct a prototype Build a prototype of the part.
Test and evaluate the solution Test to see of your solution meets the design requirements and if any changes are necessary. Mostly done through simulations and motion analysis.
Communicate the solution Present your solution to the public. Animation is one way to show the product.
Redesign Determine if your design meets the criteria. If it doesn't, find out what needs to modified or improved and redesign. Even if design meets the criteria you should always try and improve on it to be more environmentally friendly and cost effective.
Brainstorm Ideas: What is something that is needed or can be improved on to make our lives better in some way?