SketchBio: a scientist`s 3D interface for molecular modeling and animation (BMC Bioinformatics)

Background: Because of the difficulties involved in learning and using 3D modeling and rendering software,many scientists hire programmers or animators to create models and animations. This both slowsthe discovery process and provides opportunities for miscommunication. Working with multiplecollaborators, a tool was developed (based on a set of design goals) to enable them to directly constructmodels and animations. Results: SketchBio is presented, a tool that incorporates state-of-the-art bimanual interaction and drop shadowsto enable rapid construction of molecular structures and animations. It includes three novel features:crystal-by-example, pose-mode physics, and spring-based layout that accelerate operations commonin the formation of molecular models. Design decisions and their consequences are presented,including cases where iterative design was required to produce effective approaches. Conclusions: The design decisions, novel features, and inclusion of state-of-the-art techniques enabled SketchBioto meet all of its design goals. These features and decisions can be incorporated into existing and newtools to improve their effectiveness.