The Origins of TS Display
2015 — The First DIY Split Flap Display Prototypes
The journey toward TS Display began with two successful DIY split flap display prototypes in 2015
In 2015, Allen, drawing on years of experience in exporting advertising equipment, began receiving inquiries about split flap displays. He recognized an opportunity to bring this distinctive mechanical display technology to a wider international market.
He reached out to his high school classmate, Dave Lee, a software engineer, and together they explored how to combine the charm of classic split flap displays with modern control technology.
In the summer of 2015, they built their first two acrylic prototypes through a hands-on DIY project. Both prototypes performed as expected during initial testing, confirming the concept’s potential and encouraging them to pursue further development.
These successful early experiments marked the beginning of the TS Display journey. What started with two experimental prototypes evolved into a long-term commitment to split flap display design, engineering, and development. In 2017, TS Display was officially established, building on the foundation laid by those first successful tests.
From Two Prototypes to the World
Today, TS Display has delivered Split Flap and Picture Flap displays to more than 30 countries and regions, bringing mechanical movement to cafés, museums, brand spaces and architectural interiors. Each installation gives the technology a new setting and a new purpose. The story that began in 2015 continues to unfold.
