History

In 1993, Dr. J. William Doane teamed up with venture capitalist William Manning to found Kent Displays, Inc. (KDI). Their goal was to develop cholesteric display technology into commercial applications. Dr. Doane spent time as the Director of the Liquid Crystal Institute of Kent State University, researching and developing liquid crystal science and technology. Over the years, that technology has developed into a full line of consumer products that can be used in many different ways: from classrooms and education to healthcare communication to home and office applications.

In addition to a complete and ever-evolving line of products, KDI has continued to develop the technology and manufacturing required for each product, including flexible liquid crystal films, roll-to-roll manufacturing, and highly specialized materials and processes. Currently, KDI runs three roll-to-roll lines and continues to develop more manufacturing processes.

Timeline

• 1993: Kent Displays, Inc. is founded by Dr. J. William Doane and William Manning.
• 2006: The reusable writing tablet idea is born!
• 2007: KDI starts implementing the manufacturing capability and capacity for Boogie Board tablets.
• 2008: KDI installs the world’s first bistable cholesteric display roll-to-roll manufacturing line.
• 2010: Boogie Board launches to e-commerce market.
• 2013: KDI installs its second roll-to-roll manufacturing line optimizing large volume production.
• 2018: KDI installs the third roll-to-roll manufacturing line for larger products.
• 2022: Mass global distribution via e-commerce, specialty store, and superstore retail companies.