Direct Matrix Abstraction Program

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DMAP is an acronym for Direct Matrix Abstraction Program, a programming language used by companies in to customize NASTRAN. Many engineering companies use DMAP as a way to add certain classes of custom enhancements and features to their finite element software.

[edit] History

DMAP is an internal programming language developed as a part of NASTRAN (under NASA contract). It was the first to have a finite element program with a programming language that users could use to customize their version without needing access to source code.

Many aerospace companies built up internal support organizations that specialized in DMAP and over the years have become used to the limitations and burdens it imposes.

[edit] Development

Most DMAP is proprietary to the company that developed it, and therefore not generally available. That which is generally available is essentially shareware. It is not production code. As such, there is no guarantee it will be supported in the future.