Final answer:
The next step in Jacob's design process is to define requirements and constraints for his solution, then generate and evaluate possible solutions. After selecting the most viable option, he should design, build, and test a prototype, refine it, and communicate his findings.
Step-by-step explanation:
Once Jacob has identified the problem of the doorknob hitting the wall, the next step in his design process is to define requirements and constraints. This involves considering what the solution must accomplish (requirements), such as preventing damage to the wall, as well as limitations (constraints), which could include size, cost, and aesthetics. Jacob should also take into account the principles of Newton's laws of motion, as the doorknob's impact is a question of forces and energy transfer.
After this, Jacob should generate ideas or brainstorm for possible solutions. This can include looking at existing products or coming up with novel designs. Once he has a list of ideas, he should use the previously defined requirements and constraints to evaluate possible solutions. For example, some ideas may be too expensive or complex to implement within his constraints.
Upon selecting the most viable option, Jacob should then design and build a prototype. This prototype will allow him to test and evaluate its effectiveness in real-world conditions and make any necessary modifications to improve the design. Through iterative testing and modification, Jacob will be able to finalize his prototype. The final part of his design process will be to communicate the results, sharing the successful solution to the problem he set out to solve.