Abstract: An energy-generating device is provided for generating energy by device deformation in any of three orthogonal directions. The device includes a resilient wave-shaped substrate comprising six or more alternating wave structures extending along at least one axis. The resilient wave-shaped substrate is capable of deformation and recovery in three orthogonal directions. Resilient, energy-generating components are mounted on top and bottom surfaces of the resilient wave-shaped structure. The energy-generating components are selected from piezoelectric and triboelectric energy-generating component and output a voltage and current in response to deformation in any of three orthogonal directions. In one aspect, the energy generating device is included in an energy harvester. In another aspect, the energy-generating device is included in a sensor, particularly a sensor for measuring strain. In one aspect a mat of randomly-oriented piezoelectric fibers comprises the energy-generating component.

Abstract: A method for forming deformation crystal twins in piezoelectric materials is disclosed. The method includes obtaining a crystalline piezoelectric material and deforming the crystalline piezoelectric material using a load. The method also includes heating the deformed crystalline piezoelectric material in an oxidative atmosphere to a predetermined temperature for a predetermined time to form a plurality of deformation crystal twins in the crystalline piezoelectric material. The method also includes allowing the crystalline piezoelectric material to cool to room temperature, and removing the load that induces the deformation of the crystalline piezoelectric material. Additionally, the deformation of the crystalline piezoelectric material is achieved by at least one of the following: compressing, stretching, shearing, torsion, and bending of the crystalline piezoelectric material.

Abstract: A method and device for forming deformation crystal twins in piezoelectric materials that includes deforming and heating the piezoelectric material in an oxidative atmosphere to a predetermined temperature for a predetermined time. The crystalline piezoelectric material is then allowed to cool to room temperature and the deformation is removed.