Dependency graph plug-ins
Maya's C++ API lets you create your own dependency nodes that can be used in the dependency graph. Dependency node plug-ins extend MPxNode
or one of its subclasses
Each node encapsulates a single operation or set of calculations. Nodes are connected to each other via plugs. A node accepts inputs from its input plugs and places its output its output plugs. Nodes are connected to each other via their input and output plugs, with the output from one node's output plug being passed to the input plug it is connected to. No additional external data beyond what is available through a node's plugs is required for it to perform its operations.