If you are a molecular modeler, you’ve likely faced challenges in creating clear and engaging presentations of your structures. Highlighting specific features while maintaining simplicity is crucial, especially when presenting to non-specialist audiences. One effective approach to simplify visuals is to progressively conceal atoms, and SAMSON’s Conceal Atoms animation is a great tool for achieving this effect.
Why Use the Conceal Atoms Animation?
The Conceal Atoms animation in SAMSON allows you to make selected atoms and their connecting bonds disappear gradually between specific keyframes. Instead of altering transparency, this animation adjusts the visibility of nodes, providing a logical progression that helps streamline complex molecular visuals. This can be incredibly useful in:
- Focusing on a region of interest without overwhelming viewers with surrounding structures.
- Creating step-by-step transitions in animations that explain molecular processes.
- Developing professional presentations for publications, lectures, or public outreach.
How to Add the Animation
Adding the Conceal Atoms animation to your model is straightforward:
- Select the atoms and bonds you want to progressively disappear.
- In the Animation panel of the Animator, double-click on the Conceal Atoms effect.
This animation includes 4 keyframes to define its behavior:
- Between keyframes 1 and 2, all selected atoms and bonds remain visible.
- Between keyframes 2 and 3, selected atoms and bonds progressively disappear, depending on their order in the selection.
- Between keyframes 3 and 4, all selected atoms and bonds are entirely hidden.
Tips for Customization
The Conceal Atoms animation can be tailored to your needs by adjusting keyframe positions and the easing curve. The easing curve allows you to refine how the animation transitions between frames, helping you control the pace and feel of the concealment effect.
If adding a concealment animation is part of a broader visualization, consider incorporating complementary animations like Reveal Atoms for seamless storytelling in your molecular presentations.
Visual Example
To help you better understand the Conceal Atoms animation, here’s an example of its application:
This illustrates how the animation works in tandem with others to enhance comprehension of molecular structures.
Applications and Resources
Looking for inspiration? Check out these examples available on SAMSON Connect – Documents:
For further guidance on using the Conceal Atoms animation, visit the official documentation page here.
Note: SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. You can get SAMSON at https://www.samson-connect.net.