Abstract: Smart composite structure is a novel structure in which sensor arrays, receivers and transmitters are embedded. It combines the functions of electronic systems with those of structure. The United States intends to design an aircraft of intergrated smart structure at the beginning of the 21st century. The prospects of smart composite structure for future aircraft applications are discussed in this paper. And the research results of damage assessment, strain measurement, stress changing, vibration suppression and antenna components will also be introduced.

Key words: smart structure, aircraft, composite