One of the challenges molecular modelers face is clearly presenting complex molecular scenarios during animations or presentations. Whether showcasing interactions, specific states, or isolating components, managing how nodes appear and disappear on-screen without clutter is crucial for a polished presentation. This is where the Hidden animation in SAMSON becomes an invaluable tool.
What is the Hidden animation?
The Hidden animation temporarily makes nodes invisible between two keyframes. Unlike methods that manipulate transparency, this technique works by toggling the visibility state of nodes. This distinction ensures a clean removal of nodes from view while maintaining their presence in the model for later actions.
When to use the Hidden animation?
If you’re designing an animation to highlight certain stages in a molecular process while temporarily hiding other components, the Hidden effect is particularly useful. For example, you may want to illustrate how a ligand binds to a protein by initially removing surrounding molecules without permanently deleting them. Once the intended interaction is shown, you can bring the hidden elements back into the animation as needed.
How to add the Hidden animation?
To implement the Hidden animation effect:
- First, select the nodes you want to hide.
- Next, double-click the Hidden animation effect within the Animation panel of SAMSON’s Animator.
- Upon doing so, a keyframe will automatically be created at the current frame. You can then adjust the placement of the keyframes to refine the timing of when nodes are hidden or reappear in your animation.
Keyframes are easily adjustable, allowing complete flexibility to match the hidden state of nodes with your storyboard and frame layout effortlessly. This ensures you maintain control over the pacing and appearance of molecular components.
Fine-tuning with Easing Curves
SAMSON also provides the ability to modify the Easing curve, which controls how animation parameters are interpolated between keyframes. The Easing curve adds a layer of customization, ensuring smoother transitions and better storytelling in your animations.
A Note About Workflow Changes
Note
SAMSON now consolidates animations in the Animation panel of the Animator. If you’ve used SAMSON before, you might remember accessing these through the Animation menu. Now, everything is streamlined into one place for enhanced usability.
Conclusion
The Hidden animation effect in SAMSON helps molecular modelers design cleaner and more engaging presentations by offering precise control over node visibility. Whether you’re refining scientific animations, teaching molecular biology, or presenting research findings, this tool ensures your audience focuses exactly where you want them to.
Ready to integrate this feature into your workflow? Visit the official documentation for the Hidden animation at https://documentation.samson-connect.net/users/latest/animations/hidden/ to learn more.
Note: SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. You can download SAMSON at https://www.samson-connect.net.