For molecular modelers and researchers, presenting complex molecular data and processes visually is vital. But what happens when you want to focus on specific parts of your structure by simplifying your visualization? This is where SAMSON’s Conceal Atoms animation can become an invaluable tool. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at this feature, including how to apply it, its properties, and how it meets the need for selective visualization.
Why Concealing Atoms Matters
In molecular modeling, large structures can overwhelm the audience, obscuring critical details. Concealing atoms selectively can help focus attention on specific molecules or bonds and enhance the storytelling aspect of molecular presentations. Instead of cluttering the display, key information is highlighted by allowing parts of a molecule to progressively disappear.
How the Conceal Atoms Animation Works
The Conceal Atoms animation in SAMSON works by controlling the visibility of atoms and the bonds between them without altering their transparency. The transition is smooth, occurring progressively between two frames. This feature is perfect for generating clean, step-by-step sequences where parts of the molecule disappear in a visually intuitive way.
Adding the Animation
To add the Conceal Atoms animation, follow these steps:
- Choose the atoms and bonds that you want to disappear progressively.
- Open the Animation panel in the Animator tool.
- Double-click the Conceal Atoms effect to apply it to your selection.
The animation consists of 4 keyframes:
- Keyframes 1 → 2: All specified atoms and their bonds are visible.
- Keyframes 2 → 3: A progressive disappearance occurs, hiding atoms and bonds based on their order in the selection.
- Keyframes 3 → 4: All specified atoms and bonds are fully hidden.
You can adjust the timing and spacing of the keyframes to suit your presentation needs. The interface is intuitive, allowing efficient customization of transitions.
Fine-Tuning with Easing Curves
SAMSON lets you modify how parameters are interpolated between frames using Easing Curves. This feature gives granular control over the speed and nature of the progressive disappearance, adding sophistication to your animation and ensuring it matches the tempo of your presentation.
Examples in Action
Want to see the Conceal Atoms effect in real use? Here are a couple of examples from SAMSON Connect:
Conclusion
The Conceal Atoms animation is a powerful tool for crafting clear, focused molecular presentations. By progressively simplifying complex structures, you can lead your audience through your data in a way that is visually engaging and easy to follow.
To learn more about how to use the Conceal Atoms animation, visit the official documentation page.
SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. Get started today by downloading SAMSON from SAMSON Connect.