The thoughts that lead to creative insight require observations first and, hence, the technology to make those observations. Galileo's startling discovery of craters on the moon with his new telescope opened up whole avenues of thought that were previously hidden. We could not even imagine such things. We needed observations about craters before we could discuss their meaning. Yes, we can.
Preparation is the conscious attack on a problem.
It involves mulling the problem over, viewing it from multiple perspectives, discussing it with others, reading about it and daydreaming. We have complete control over this phase. Its success depends upon willingness and concentrated effort. Incubation is the subconscious mind at work. It is not subject to the will.