Some are associated with optical systems either terrestrial or space based, and other kinds of precision positioning devices. Some people believe that smart, precision positioners, which can also take the form of vibrational dampers by counteracting high-frequency movement, may eventually become a large market for smart structures. Several universities and the Sandia National Lab. have spent several years working on precision positioners, including magnetically levitated platinums for weapon component protection and vibrational control, and dampeners to allow faster stage movement within a microlithography machine that makes microchips. Spillman said other researchers are working on smart polymers such as carbon nanotube, PVDF, and other electroactive polymers. They have little force but big displacement, and if you can combine them in the right way you have something like a muscle.
Implantable devices are another area receiving considerable attention.
According to Spillman, many applications found in hospitals, health care facilities, and the military could use small implantable devices capable of monitoring various bodily functions. This technology has already been demonstrated in composite structures. The implanted sensors could also be used for the control and injection of pharmaceuticals, such as insulin for diabetics. Claus added that smart structures capable of detecting various diseases or conditions could be placed directly on the skin. A change in color of the device could indicate that the patient is suffering from a particular condition, greatly reducing the costs of diagnostics and testing.