One common challenge for molecular modelers is finding ways to effectively communicate complex molecular data in presentations and animations. Especially when working with intricate structures, such as molecular assemblies or visualizing dynamic processes, the ability to gradually highlight relevant features while maintaining clarity can be invaluable.
This is where SAMSON’s ‘Disappear’ animation feature can make a significant difference. By progressively transitioning parts of your molecular structures into transparency, this feature allows you to guide viewers’ attention and tell a clear, engaging story about your model.
What is the ‘Disappear’ Animation?
The ‘Disappear’ animation enables certain nodes of your molecular models to vanish progressively, increasing their transparency over time. It is best suited for nodes with the transparency attribute, such as structural models, visual models, meshes, and labels. This kind of selective transparency helps simplify complex visuals while focusing on the most relevant details.
However, it is important to note that individual atoms and bonds do not have separate transparency attributes. If you wish to fade out these elements, you should apply the ‘Disappear’ animation to the structural models that contain them.
How to Add the ‘Disappear’ Animation
Follow these steps to use the ‘Disappear’ animation effectively in SAMSON:
- Select Nodes: Identify the nodes (e.g., structural models, visual models, or labels) that you want to progressively disappear during your animation.
- Add the Effect: Open the Animation panel within the Animator section of SAMSON. Double-click on the ‘Disappear’ animation effect to add it to your selected nodes.
- Customize Keyframes: The ‘Disappear’ animation consists of four keyframes:
- From keyframes 1 to 2, the nodes remain fully opaque.
- From keyframes 2 to 3, the nodes gradually become transparent.
- By keyframe 4, the nodes are completely transparent.
You can freely move these keyframes to adjust the timing of the transparency progression to suit your presentation needs.
An example of how the ‘Disappear’ animation can be used can be seen below:
Advanced Tip: Control the Animation’s Easing Curve
If you wish to refine the look and feel of your animation, you can modify how the transparency is interpolated between keyframes by adjusting the Easing curve. This allows for greater customization, such as creating a smoother or more dramatic fade.
Conclusion
The ‘Disappear’ animation is a powerful tool for molecular modelers who want to create clear, professional presentations. By progressively fading away elements in your models, you can simplify your storytelling and focus your audience’s attention on key features.
To learn more, visit the official documentation page: https://documentation.samson-connect.net/users/latest/animations/disappear/.
Note: SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. You can get SAMSON at https://www.samson-connect.net.