Creating new ideas using systematic approaches

In Rainmaking we have made some experiments using structured brainstorming sessions and the like to facilitate the process of creating new ideas. These structured approaches have generated many ideas and some of them will eventually be tested and hopefully turn into real companies.

It is, however, our experience that most ideas just flow out of our heads when on vacation or when inspired ny reading a newspaper or attending a conference. This is fine and I am very pleased about the quality of the ideas. The challenge, however, is that this source of ideas can not be planned and boosted when needed.

It would therefore be extremely useful if we can develop or find a framework which could be used to find new ideas in a more systematic way.

We have heard about the 6 thinking hats but have never really used it. Have you tried this?

Or can you recommend other useful tools/frameworks/methodologies, which we should try?