1. Introduction

Maps are [D4.06.05] « constant by element » fields. Formally, a map is a data structure that maps cells and occurrences of the same size (for example MATER for material characteristics).

Maps are often used to store data affected by the user on « areas » of their mesh (commands AFFE_CHAR_MECA, AFFE_MATERIAU, AFFE_CARA_ELEM,…). These fields can then be used as « inputs » for elementary calculations [D3.02.01].

Four routines are available for programmers to build CARTES:

• MECACT: to create a constant map.

• ALCART: to « allocate » a card.

• NOCART: to write a couple (size, affected_zone) in a map.

• TECART: to « finish » a card (optional operation).