Making the Lab Feel Closer
Palm-sized Analytical Lab Capsule Toys Launched
Analytical instruments are familiar tools to users in day-to-day analytical work, yet they have limited opportunities to be known by the public. To showcase the appeal of analytical instruments to as many people as possible, the capsule toy series Tenohira Bunseki Lab (Palm-sized Analytical Lab) has been created.
The series recreates Shimadzu Corporation’s flagship analytical instruments and Shimadzu Rika Corporation’s laboratory tables at approximately 1/20 scale. Developed under Shimadzu’s supervision and sold as a product of capsule toy manufacturer tarlin international Co., Ltd., the series went on sale through capsule toy vending machines across Japan in May 2026.
Communicating through Capsule Toys
Capsule toys first appeared in Japan around 60 years ago and have since grown into a market enjoyed by adults as well as children. The appeal lies in their detailed craftsmanship, the excitement of discovering which item is inside, and the enjoyment of collecting them.
The series is designed so that collecting multiple items allows users to build a complete laboratory setup. For many users, arranging the pieces on a desk may evoke how a real laboratory is configured. The models can be enjoyed in different ways, including displays and photography.
Originally posted on X; reproduced with permission from the original poster
The series consists of the following six items:
|
Each model features accessories and movable parts that reflect the characteristics of the actual instrument, with details reproduced down to the side and rear panels. Attention was paid not only to appearance, but also to details that evoke real laboratory use.
At first glance, the laboratory table may seem simple, like a supporting player, but it is specially designed to hold the other five analytical instruments and is a key item for completing the lab. This laboratory table is what makes the laboratory world feel complete.
A Real Laboratory Completed by Collecting the Pieces
Tsukamoto of the Corporate Product Design Center at Shimadzu Corporation, who oversaw the project’s design direction, explained:
For this project, we wanted users to enjoy the feeling of the laboratory gradually coming together as they collected more items, and we carefully considered both the lineup and specifications. Especially, we paid special attention to the scale design. By keeping all instruments at a uniform scale, we aimed to create a sense of unity that resembles a real laboratory when the models are displayed together.
At the same time, we had to work within the constraints of capsule size. If the scale were too small, it would be difficult to reproduce fine details convincingly, reducing overall realism. After careful consideration, we finally settled on a 1/20 scale. We also added movable features such as opening doors and drawers to recreate the functionality and distinctive character of the actual instruments.
Prototype models of different scales. From left: Liquid chromatograph models at 1/20 and 1/15 scale, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer models at 1/20 and 1/15 scale
As development progressed, new ideas continued to emerge, and the final products became more elaborate than originally planned. For example, the LC model was redesigned to better capture the feel of the actual instrument, including the addition of a column oven. The result is a model with greater volume and presence. We also encourage users to compare the models’ texture and finish with those of the actual instruments.
Actual product equipped with a column oven on the right side
Palm-sized Analytical Lab LC
By carefully refining even the smallest details, we believe the series captures both the dedication and the sense of fun that are at the heart of Shimadzu Corporation’s craftsmanship. This level of detail was made possible by tarlin international’s expertise in highly detailed modeling and the dedication it has cultivated over the years. We would like to express our sincere thanks once again to everyone at Shimadzu and outside the company who was involved in the project, as well as to everyone who picked one up and enjoyed it.
We hope that these capsule toys will not only expand the circle of Shimadzu Corporation fans but also serve as a catalyst for sparking interest in analytical instruments and the world of science among those who may not yet be familiar with them.
Tsukamoto (right) of the Corporate Product Design Center, who directed the design, and Kawai (left), the project leader
Growing Interest in Research through Social Media
When the Palm-sized Analytical Lab series was featured on Shimadzu Corporation’s official social media account, it generated a strong response, including numerous reposts, likes, and quote posts.
“I actually use these at work,” “I want one of these!”—along with other realistic comments unique to actual users, have been received.
It became clear that the series was more than just a novelty; it also created a sense of connection and empathy among people who work with analytical instruments daily.
Photographed with handmade columns and lab items
Page Title and URL Copied.