A multi-layered arrangement according to the invention provide emission of
polarized light. At least one of the interfacing surfaces between the
layers is provided with a microstructure. In one embodiment, a first
layer in the form of a lightguide substrate (401) receives unpolarized
light from a lamp (420). A birefringent second layer (402) is provided
with a microstructure (410) in the form of parallel grooves. On top of
the birefringent layer a third layer (403), i.e. a coating layer, is
located. Light is outcoupled by way of selective Total Internal
Reflection, TIR, at the micro-structured surface of the birefringent
layer, yielding a highly linearly polarized emission at near normal
angles. The polarized light may be emitted out through the coating or in
an opposite direction through the lightguide, which in an advantageous
manner allow any configuration of transmissive (backlight), transflective
(backlight) or reflective (frontlight) display arrangement.