Molecular modeling often involves showcasing complex structural changes in a clear and engaging way. However, there are cases where certain elements in a model need to be temporarily hidden to better focus on specific parts of the molecular design. This is where SAMSON’s Hide animation comes into play—a practical solution designed to make selected nodes disappear seamlessly during animations.
Why Use the Hide Animation?
The Hide animation is an efficient way to manage node visibility in your molecular animation timeline. Rather than relying on transparency, which can sometimes clutter the visual scene, this feature allows nodes to vanish and remain hidden until the intended moment of reappearance. It combines the functionalities of Shown and Hidden animations into one neat and easy-to-use package.
How to Add the Hide Animation
Adding a Hide animation in SAMSON involves only a few straightforward steps:
- Begin by selecting the nodes you want to hide.
- Double-click the Hide effect within the Animation panel of the Animator.
Once applied, the animation operates over three keyframes:
- Between keyframes 1 and 2, the selected nodes remain visible.
- At keyframe 2, the nodes will disappear.
- Between keyframes 2 and 3, the nodes stay hidden.
You can always adjust the keyframes to perfectly time the node hiding and reappearance according to your specific animation needs. This flexibility ensures that your molecular presentations are both professional and informative.
Enhancing Smoothness with the Easing Curve
For further refinement, you can modify the way parameters transition between keyframes by adjusting the Easing curve. This granular control helps create fluid, polished animations that effectively communicate molecular changes.
Visual Example
To better understand how the Hide animation works, take a look at this visual example:
This example illustrates how nodes disappear and stay hidden as defined across keyframes, streamlining complex molecular models for clearer storytelling.
Conclusion
Using the Hide animation in SAMSON is a simple yet powerful way to elevate your molecular modeling animations by selectively presenting model components. Whether you’re creating presentations, educational material, or analytical visuals, this functionality helps you achieve clarity and focus in your work. Visit the official documentation page at https://documentation.samson-connect.net/users/latest/animations/hide/ to learn more.
SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. You can download SAMSON here.