In molecular design, representing changes and interactions dynamically is often a core challenge. Animations can play an important role, especially when you need to highlight details clearly while removing distractions. If you are a molecular modeler aiming to visually declutter your presented systems while maintaining meaningful transitions, SAMSON’s Conceal atoms animation effect could be invaluable for you.
The Conceal atoms animation does precisely what its name implies—it makes atoms, and the bonds between them, progressively disappear over a set period of time. It does this by adjusting the visibility of nodes rather than simply altering their transparency. This subtle yet elegant animation is perfect for emphasizing other parts of your molecular system or simply making large, complex structures digestible for your audience.
How to Add the ‘Conceal Atoms’ Animation
Here’s a straightforward way to make use of this animation in SAMSON:
- Choose your targets: Begin by selecting the specific atoms and bonds you want to gradually hide.
- Apply the animation: Open the Animation panel in the Animator. Then, simply double-click the Conceal atoms effect.
The animation consists of four keyframes that work as follows:
- Keyframes 1 to 2: All specified atoms and bonds are completely visible.
- Keyframes 2 to 3: The animation makes the selected atoms (and their connecting bonds) progressively disappear. This is done systematically based on their order in the selection.
- Keyframes 3 to 4: By the end of the animation, the chosen atoms and bonds are fully hidden.
The great thing about this feature is its flexibility. Simply move the keyframes to extend or shorten the duration of the effect, depending on your presentation needs. This makes it easier to tailor the animation to specific sequences or time constraints.
Adjusting the Animation Properties
To further control how the concealment happens, SAMSON allows you to modify the Easing curve. This adjustment lets you fine-tune how the animation’s progression feels over time, whether you prefer a linear fade or a more dramatic, accelerating effect towards the end. Small tweaks here can make a big difference in the final presentation.
Examples for Inspiration
Need some inspiration? Check out real-world examples of user presentations utilizing the Conceal atoms animation:
For a comprehensive guide and additional examples, visit the full documentation of the Conceal atoms animation at this link.
Note: SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. You can get SAMSON at https://www.samson-connect.net.