If you’re an avid molecular modeler, you understand the importance of bringing clarity to complex models when presenting your work. Transitions, like objects smoothly fading in and out, are particularly effective in keeping the audience engaged while conveying information. That’s where the Pulse animation in SAMSON comes in. This feature lets you create an elegant visualization by progressively showing and hiding molecular elements. Let’s explore how to use this and why it can make a difference in your projects.
What is the Pulse Animation?
The Pulse animation in SAMSON is designed to give your molecular models a dynamic flair. It works by progressively making nodes appear and disappear. This animation is particularly useful in highlighting key parts of your molecular structure over time in a loop, guiding viewers’ attention effectively. If your node types have a transparency attribute—like structural models, visual models, meshes, or labels—you can apply this animation seamlessly.
How to Add the Pulse Animation
Implementing the Pulse animation is simple. Follow these steps:
- Start by selecting the nodes you’d like to highlight with a smooth fade-in and fade-out effect.
- Navigate to the Animation panel within the Animator.
- Double-click on the Pulse animation to apply it.
This animation is built in 5 keyframes:
- Keyframes 1 → 2: Nodes are fully transparent.
- Keyframes 2 → 3: Nodes appear by decreasing their transparency.
- Keyframe 3: Nodes reach full opacity (no transparency).
- Keyframes 3 → 4: Nodes start disappearing as transparency increases.
- Keyframes 4 → 5: Nodes are fully transparent again.
You can adjust the timing and positions of the keyframes to better suit your needs, giving you full control over the sequence.
Fine-Tuning the Animation
The Pulse animation offers a level of customization that can make molecular visualizations more impactful. By modifying the Easing curve in SAMSON, you can adjust how parameters are interpolated between frames. This flexibility ensures that the animation matches the pace and emphasis of your presentation, whether for a scientific audience or a broader audience.
Why Use Pulse in Your Models?
The Pulse animation doesn’t just add aesthetic value—it serves a functional purpose. For example, if you’re presenting structural changes in a molecule or need to gradually highlight molecule-specific regions, Pulse smoothly guides your audience. It keeps their focus on what matters and makes your visualization more comprehensible. This is especially crucial in explaining intricate biological or chemical processes.
Begin enhancing your animations today and make your molecular models unforgettable to your viewers.
To learn more about the Pulse animation feature and its options, head to the documentation page: https://documentation.samson-connect.net/users/latest/animations/pulse/.
SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. Download SAMSON now from https://www.samson-connect.net.