In my book, the ships of the Earth's Crimson Fleet utilize what is called "Smart Memory Alloys" or "Memory Metals" for their hull structures and many ship components.  These are alloys that actual can have two or more stable states. Although current heating and cooling of the memory metal (such as Nickel-Titanium) determines the crystal structure the metal takes, there is another type of S.M.A., called ferromagnetic shape memory alloy  (FSMA), that changes shape under strong electromagnetic fields. These materials are of particular interest as the magnetic response tends to be faster and more efficient than temperature-induced responses.

The changes not only allow components to change shape, but when such components are used together can create new functions ... or transitioning one type of device into another. For example, a lab could buy one device that takes the place of several types of different equipment, thus cutting cost to consumers.  Another feature would be stealth such as transforming a harmless airliner into a deadly bomber or drone.