In this dissertation, proposed and demonstrated are several novel smart electronically automated optical designs to efficiently solve existing real-world problems in the field of shape sensing and imaging. First half of the thesis proposes shape sensing techniques that use an Electronically Controlled Variable Focus Lens (ECVFL) within a smart optical design suitable for a wide range of applications including shape sensing and projection displays. The second part of this dissertation involves the use of the Digital Micromirror Device (DMD) deployed within several smart optical designs including an embedded laser beam profiler and a new camera idea which is inspired by the Telecommunication science field. Specifically, proposed and demonstrated is the design and implementation of the novel imaging device called Coded Access Optical Sensor (CAOS) where CAOS is able of operating with different application dependent working modes. Experimentally and successfully demonstrated for the first time are its use for coherent light laser imaging as well as for incoherent imaging of a high dynamic range white light scenario. It is also shown how its design can be further extended for multispectral and hyperspectral imaging applications.