WO2020181708A1

WO2020181708A1 - Illuminated toilet seat

Info

Publication number: WO2020181708A1
Application number: PCT/CN2019/098243
Authority: WO
Inventors: Chengdong WU
Original assignee: Guizhou Topseat Technology Company Limited
Priority date: 2019-03-08
Filing date: 2019-07-29
Publication date: 2020-09-17
Also published as: WO2020182080A1; EP3934498A4; EP3934498A1

Abstract

A toilet lid capable of being connected to a toilet seat, wherein the toilet lid comprises: a light-permeable layer (210) having an upper surface (211) and a lower surface (212) with a shape and size associated with the toilet lid, wherein at least a portion of the light-permeable layer is at least partially permeable to light; a light emitting means (260), wherein the light emitting means (260) is positioned such that it is capable of emitting light in the direction substantially parallel to the upper surface (211) and the lower surface (212) of the light-permeable layer (210) and illuminating at least part of the light-permeable layer (210).

Description

ILLUMINATED TOILET SEAT

FIELD OF INVENTION

This disclosure is generally directed to toilet equipment and more particularly to a toilet lid and seat that includes illumination.

BACKGROUND

Toilet seats have existed in various forms for many decades. Usually, they comprise a seating board having a circumferential seating surface around a hole that is substantially positioned in the middle and matches the aperture of the toilet bowl. The seating board provides a surface on which the occupant can sit comfortably. In addition, such toilet seats often comprise a lid, which may cover the seating board and thus provide a protective cover for both the seating board and the toilet bowl aperture.

For most toilet seats, both seating board and lid parts, have plain, non-adorned surfaces which do not include any type of embellishments such as painting, photographs, or engraving.

Only a small proportion of toilet seats available on the market have adorned or decorated surfaces. For instance, toilet seat lids can be adorned with silk-screen printing, hand painting, water-transfer printing, heat transfer printing, and the like. As an illustrative example, document WO 2012/138425 A2 discloses toilet seats with such a decorative graphic on the upper surface of the toilet lid. Document EP 3 424 385 discloses a toilet lid for a lenticular image in a cavity and a transparent exterior layer covering the cavity.

However, in low light situations such as in the dark or at use at night, the image on the toilet lid is not fully visible. Therefore, there is a need for an improved, cost-efficient, lightweight and durable toilet lid and toilet seat which can be advantageously used also during low visibility conditions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The above objective is achieved by the present disclosure of the toilet lid having a light-permeable layer which is capable of being illuminated by an illumination means or light-emitting means. More particularly, the illumination means or light-emitting means are positioned such that light is emitted in the direction substantially parallel to an upper surface and a lower surface of the light-permeable layer and illuminates at least part of the light-permeable layer.

According to a first aspect, the invention provides for a toilet lid capable of being connected to a toilet seat, wherein the toilet lid comprises a light-permeable layer having an upper surface and a lower surface with a shape and size associated with the toilet lid, wherein at least a portion of the light-permeable layer is at least partially permeable to light, and a light-emitting means, wherein the light-emitting means is positioned such that it is capable of emitting light in the direction substantially parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface of the light-permeable layer and illuminating at least part of the light-permeable layer. Hence, the light-emitting means allow for an improved visibility of the toilet lid, while at the same time the overall toilet lid remains cost-efficient to manufacture, lightweight and durable.

According to another aspect, the invention provides for a toilet lid wherein the light-permeable layer is at least partially transparent and/or translucent.

According to yet another aspect, the invention provides for a toilet lid, wherein the light-permeable layer is made from at least one of acrylic, plastic (polyresin) or glass. Acrylic, plastic (polyresin) or glass are materials that are durable, resistant against wear and tear, and are suitable for applications in humid and/or wet environments such as, for example, in bathrooms. Furthermore, these materials may exhibit many different optical characteristics, such as, for example, varying degrees of transparency and/or translucency. In general, any suitable material with similar properties may be utilized.

According to yet another aspect, the invention provides for a toilet lid, wherein the light-permeable layer is colored or tinted. By coloring or tinting the light-permeable layer, or additionally also in combination with any of the previous and following aspects, many different effects may be achieved according to a user’s requirements.

According to yet another aspect, the invention provides for a toilet lid, wherein at least part of an exterior lateral face or peripheral surface of the light-permeable layer is adapted to diffusely scatter light of the light-emitting means. Since the light-emitting means illuminates the light-permeable layer in a direction substantially parallel to the upper and lower surface of the light-permeable layer, a part of the light emitted by the light-emitting means reaches a boundary of the light-permeable layer at a peripheral surface or lateral face of the light-permeable layer without being diffusely scattered. To improve an illuminating effect caused by the light-emitting means illuminating the light-permeable layer, the lateral face of the light-permeable layer may be adapted to diffusely scatter light that reaches the lateral face. This may be achieved, for example, by applying a matte surface finish to the lateral face of the light-permeable layer. Additionally, or alternatively, this may also be achieved, for example, by applying a diffusely reflective coating or surface finish to the lateral face.

According to yet another aspect, the invention provides for a toilet lid, wherein a first representation of an image, graphical object or visual pattern, or a first plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern may be provided on at least one of the upper surface of the light-permeable layer, the lower surface of the light-permeable layer or within the light-permeable layer by means of laser engraving.

According to yet another aspect, the invention provides for a toilet lid, wherein a second representation of an image, graphical object or visual pattern, or a second plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern may be provided at least on one of the upper surface or the lower surface of the light-permeable layer or within the light-permeable layer by means of embedding a plurality of light-scattering particles or particulates.

According to yet another aspect, the invention provides for a toilet lid, wherein a third representation of an image, graphical object or visual pattern or a third plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern may be provided on at least one of the upper surface or the lower surface of the light-permeable layer by means of mechanical, chemical, or physical etching, carving or engraving methods.

According to yet another aspect, the invention provides for a toilet lid, wherein the first, second and/or third representation or the first, second and/or third plurality of representations comprise a plurality of light-scattering microstructures.

By providing a representation or a plurality of representations on the upper and/or lower surface and/or within the light-permeable layer, many visual effects such as, for example, strong stereoscopic effects or different visuals on different surfaces of the light-permeable layer, may be achieved according to a user’s requirements. The representation or plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern may be achieved by many different methods. For example, laser engraving allows representations to not only be provided on a surface of the light-permeable layer, but also within the light-permeable layer. Further, laser engraving may also provide for a high degree of automation and customizability of desired representations. Additionally, or alternatively, embedding light-scattering particles or particulates, or employing a plurality of light-scattering microstructures allows for a representation or plurality of representations that diffusely scatter light, creating a strong visual effect and even further enhancing an illuminating effect caused by the light-emitting means illuminating the light-permeable layer in the process. Additionally, or alternatively, mechanical, chemical or physical etching, carving or engraving methods may be chosen according to a user’s requirements or manufacturing circumstances. It should be noted that a representation or plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern may also be achieved by using a combination of the above-mentioned techniques.

According to yet another aspect, the invention provides for a toilet lid, wherein a fourth representation of an image, graphical object or visual pattern or a fourth plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern may be provided on at least one of the upper surface or the lower surface of the light-permeable layer by means of UV transfer, heat transfer, wet transfer, silkscreen, or flatbed printing methods. By providing a representation or a plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern, the light-permeable layer may be provided with a desired effect. Further, a representation or a plurality of representations of an image graphical object or visual pattern may at least partially prevent visibility of the toilet bowl onto which a toilet lid and seat assembly may be mounted.

According to yet another aspect, the invention provides for a toilet lid, wherein the first, second, and/or third representation or the first, second and/or third plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern are three-dimensional.

According to yet another aspect, the invention provides for a toilet lid, wherein at least a part of the light-permeable layer comprises medium density fiberboard (MDF) or wood-based material, plastic and/or metal.

According to yet another aspect, the invention provides for a toilet seat, also called “ring” or “seating board” , connected to a toilet lid, wherein the toilet seat comprises a light-permeable layer having an upper surface and a lower surface with a shape and size associated with the toilet seat, wherein at least a portion of the light-permeable layer is at least partially permeable to light, and a light-emitting means, wherein the light-emitting means is positioned such that it is capable of emitting light in the direction substantially parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface of the light-permeable layer and illuminating at least part of the light-permeable layer. Thus, just as is the case for the toilet lid, the toilet seat is advantageous since the light-emitting means allow for an improved visibility of the toilet seat, while at the same time the overall toilet seat remains cost-efficient to manufacture, lightweight and durable.

According to yet another aspect, the invention provides for a toilet lid capable of being connected to a toilet seat wherein the toilet lid comprises a light-permeable layer having an upper surface and a lower surface, wherein the light-permeable layer is a light-permeable strip having a surface smaller than a surface of the toilet lid, wherein at least a portion of the light-permeable strip is at least partially permeable to light, and a light-emitting means, wherein the light-emitting means is positioned such that it is capable of emitting light in the direction substantially parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface of the light-permeable strip and illuminating at least part of the light-permeable layer.

In yet another aspect, the invention provides for a toilet lid assembly comprising a toilet lid and a toilet seat connected to said toilet lid, wherein either the toilet lid or the toilet seat (or both) are configured with light-emitting means and a light-permeable layer as set forth above or below.

Preferred configurations of the toilet lid and toilet seat are described hereinafter, and also set forth in the enclosed dependent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 illustrates a toilet that includes a toilet lid having a display cavity, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figs. 2A and 2B illustrate a toilet lid and its cross-section, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figs. 3A and 3B illustrate a toilet lid with an illumination means according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Fig. 4 illustrates a portion and the various components of the toilet lid according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figs. 5A, 5B, 5C or 5D illustrate a light-permeable layer with different representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, respectively;

Figs. 6A, 6B and 6C illustrate a toilet lid and its layers according to embodiments of the present disclosure, respectively;

Figs. 7A, 7B, and 7C each illustrate a toilet lid and its layers according to embodiments of the present disclosure, respectively;

Figs. 8A, 8B, 8C and 8D each illustrate a toilet lid and its layers according to embodiments of the present disclosure, respectively;

Figs. 9A and 9B illustrate an angled view from the upper surface and an angled view from the lower surface of a toilet lid and its layers, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Fig. 10 illustrates a toilet lid and its layers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Fig. 11 illustrates a toilet lid and its layers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figs. 12A and 12B illustrate a toilet lid and its layers according to embodiments of the present disclosure, respectively;

Figs. 13A and 13B illustrate a toilet lid with a holding portion according to embodiments of the present disclosure, respectively;

Figs. 14A, 14B and 14C illustrate a toilet lid and two cross-sectional views, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figs. 15A, 15B and 15C illustrate a cross-sectional view of a toilet lid with an illumination means, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figs. 16A, 16B and 16C illustrate a cross-sectional view of a toilet lid with an illumination means, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figs. 17A and 17B illustrate a top view and a cross-section of a toilet lid with a holding portion, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figs. 18A and 18B illustrate a top view and a cross-section of a toilet lid with an illumination means, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figs. 19A and 19B illustrate a top view and a cross-section of a toilet lid with an illumination means, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figs. 20A, 20B, 20C and 20D illustrate a top view and three cross-sections of a toilet lid with an illumination means and a holding portion, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figs. 21A and 21B illustrate a top view and a cross-section of a toilet lid with an illumination means, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figs. 22A and 22B illustrate a top view and a cross-section of a toilet lid with an illumination means, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figs. 23A and 23B illustrate a top view and a cross-section of a toilet lid with an illumination means, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figs. 24A and 24B illustrate a top view and a cross-section of a toilet lid with an illumination means, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figs. 25A and 25B illustrate a top view and a cross-section of a toilet lid with an illumination means, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figs. 26A, 26B and 26C illustrate an angled view from an upper surface, a top view and a cross-section of a toilet lid with an illumination means and its layers, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

Figs. 27A, 27B, 27C and 27D illustrate an angled view of a holding portion and a rear portion of a toilet lid, a cross-section of the holding portion and the rear portion of the toilet lid, a frontal view of the holding portion, and a rear view of the rear portion of the toilet lid, respectively, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It may be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain words and phrases used throughout this patent document. The terms “include” and “comprise, ” as well as derivatives thereof, mean inclusion without limitation. The term “or” is inclusive, meaning and/or. The phrases “associated with” and “associated therewith, ” as well as derivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or with, couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have, have a property of, or the like. The terms “lateral” and “longitudinal” define terms used for orientation and are to be understood as seen from the viewpoint of a user of a toilet lid standing in front of a toilet with the toilet lid. The longitudinal direction is defined by the direction when the user is looking straight towards the front in a direction parallel to the upper surface of the toilet lid, e.g. back-to-front direction, whereas the lateral direction is defined by a direction parallel to the upper surface of the toilet lid and orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, e.g. side-to-side direction.

Fig. 1 illustrates a toilet that may include a toilet lid or a toilet seat according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The toilet shown in Fig. 1 is for illustration only. Other embodiments of the toilet could be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

As shown in Fig. 1, a toilet 100 is fitted with a toilet lid 200 and toilet seat 110 over a bowl 120. The toilet 100 may be any suitable toilet with a bowl that is configured to be covered by a seat and lid. The bowl 120 has an opening that is generally round or oval shaped. The toilet lid 200 and toilet seat 110 have an overall size and shape configured to match the size and shape of the bowl 120 generally and to cover the opening of the bowl 120. The toilet lid 200 and toilet seat 110 are attached to a rear portion of the bowl 120 or toilet 100 using hinged hardware that allows the toilet lid 200 and toilet seat 110 to raise and lower independently with respect to the bowl 120 and to each other, as is known in the art.

Figs. 2A and 2B illustrate a toilet lid and its cross-section, respectively, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. In particular, the toilet lid 200 may comprise a layer 210 which is light-permeable. Thus, layer 210 may be fully transparent, semi-transparent or translucent to the extent that light can pass through the layer to a certain extent and at least in one direction. More particularly, the light-permeable layer 210 according to the present disclosure allows light to pass through (at least to a certain extent) in the direction substantially parallel to the upper surface and lower surface of the layer 210.

In one embodiment, the light-permeable layer is made of transparent or translucent materials such as acrylic, plastic (polyresin) , PET or glass, or other materials or combinations thereof. It has been found that making the light-permeable layer as an acrylic-based transparent or translucent layer provides higher stability, durability and achieves a lightweight toilet lid. For example, an acrylic layer with a thickness of 1.5 mm to 2 mm is lightweight and already quite durable. If the light-permeable layer is used without any additional layer, it may often have a larger thickness between 5 to 10 mm, more preferably between 7 and 9 mm, most preferably approximately 8 mm. Applicant has found that this thickness constitutes a good compromise between cost-efficiency, durability, and usability when opening or closing the toilet lid. Alternatively, or even additionally, a glass layer may be used to provide a shiny or mirror effect on the toilet lid. Additionally, at least a part of a transparent or translucent portion of the light-permeable layer may be colored or tinted with a single or a plurality of colors.

As shown in Figs. 2A and 2B, the toilet lid may comprise a portion 250 on the side of the lid where the lid is hinged 290 to the toilet seat. This portion is also connected and holds to an edge of the toilet lid through fastening means. Furthermore, the portion may include, at least partially, components that allow the illumination, such as illumination means, as will be discussed in detail below.

As shown in Figs. 2A and 2B, the layer is formed as a unitary layer. However, the layer can also be formed as a composite layer made of multiple components, which are, within the layer, either disposed laterally or longitudinally next to each other, meaning one next to the other, or disposed vertically above or below each other, meaning one on top of the other. Such layers are formed to enhance the structural integrity of the layer. For example, the layer may comprise a part of a layer which is transparent, and further may comprise at least a part of the layer being medium density fiberboard (MDF) board or plastic. Other materials, such as composite wood, hardwood plywood (HWPW) , particleboard (PB) , high-density fiber board (HDF) , molded wood, bamboo, molded bamboo, molded straw, resin plastic reinforced with fibres, fibreglass, or any other suitable material may be used. The materials that may be used in combination with the transparent part may either also be transparent, or not transparent at all. As can be seen in the figure, the layer comprises a peripheral surface or lateral face 213. Additionally, the lateral face 213 of the light-permeable layer may be provided with a finish dependent on a desired purpose. For example, in case the lateral face comprises MDF or a similar wood-based material, a protective coating finish may be applied. In case the lateral face comprises acrylic or a material with similar transparency or translucency, a matte surface finish may be provided or a coating adapted to diffusely scatter 0r reflect light may be applied. In case the layer 210 is formed of a plurality of layers of different materials, each of the layers may be provided with a finish, either the same or a different finish. A skilled person would understand that each of the plurality of layers may comprise one or more lateral faces depending on the construction of the layers. A lateral face on an exterior side of the toilet lid is an exterior later face.

Figs. 3A and 3B illustrate the toilet lid having the illumination means according to embodiments of the present invention. In particular, the toilet lid may be provided with an illumination means 260 at a position such that the light-permeable layer 210 is illuminated. Especially, the illumination means may be provided such that the direction of the illumination is parallel to the upper and lower surface of the light-permeable layer 210.

Fig. 3A shows one possible position where the illumination means may be provided. The holding portion 250 may comprise a holding portion cover 250b and a holding portion body 250. When assembled together with the light-permeable layer 210, the light-permeable layer may be disposed between, and connected with the holding portion cover and the holding portion body of the holding portion. In an embodiment, the holding portion may also be provided in a cut-out space, groove or a similar recess on the toilet lid. In a more specific embodiment, a cut-out, grove or similar recess matches the dimensions of at least a portion of a holding portion allowing the holding portion, when assembled with the toilet lid, to be provided in the cut-out, groove or similar recess such that the at least a portion of the holding portion is accommodated in the cut-out, groove or recess.

The illumination means 260 may be provided within the holding portion 250. In such a position, the illumination means is facing the light-permeable layer 210 and positioned such that, when the holding portion is assembled by connecting the holding portion cover 250b and the holding portion body 250 of the holding portion, the illumination means is disposed facing the light-permeable layer to illuminate between the upper surface 211 and lower surface 212 of the light-permeable layer. That is, the light-emitting means 260 is positioned such that it is capable of emitting light in the direction substantially parallel to the upper surface 211 and the lower surface 212 of the light-permeable layer 210 and illuminating at least part of the light-permeable layer 210. The light passes through the light-permeable layer between the upper and lower surface and illuminates the light-permeable layer and the upper and lower surface of the light-permeable layer.

One of the advantages of this direction of light is that the light-permeable layer disperses the light in a substantially uniform manner and illuminates the entire surface of the light-permeable layer. This ensures that any image on the toilet lid is visible, and even enhanced, in low light situations. Furthermore, since the direction is along the surface and not perpendicular to the toilet lid, the illumination is neither directed directly upwards onto the eyes nor directly downward into the toilet bowl. Even more, for embodiments where the light-permeable layer is formed form a unitary material, such as acrylic (PMMA, Polymethyl methacrylate) , without any foreign objections in the material, the light will travel through the acrylic such that the edges or the lateral face are brightly illuminated. This effect could be further enhanced if the edge may be provided e.g. with a corner that causes light refraction, or at least a part of the lateral face may be provided with, for example, a finish that is configured to diffusely scatter the light of the illumination means.

Additionally, or alternatively, the illumination means could be provided along a portion or all of the peripheral surface or lateral face of the light-permeable layer. For example, as shown in Fig. 3B, in an embodiment where the toilet lid is formed of a unitary layer of light-permeable layer 210, the illumination means 260 may be provided on at least a portion of the lateral face and between the upper surface 211 and lower surface 212 of the light-permeable layer 210. In such a position, the illumination means is positioned to emit light substantially in the direction parallel to the light-permeable layer. In the illustration, the illumination means may be provided on the lateral face of the toilet lid which is facing the holding portion at the end where the toilet lid is hinged to the seat. However, it may also be provided on any of the lateral faces, either partly, or entirely covering the lateral face.

Additionally, or alternatively, the illumination means may also be provided in the light permeable layer. In an embodiment, the light permeable layer may be provided with a cut-out, groove or similar recess extending along an upper or lower surfaces or along one or more lateral faces of the light permeable layer, inside which the illumination means may be positioned such that the illumination means may illuminate the light-permeable layer in a direction substantially parallel to the upper and lower surface of the light-permeable layer. How such an arrangement may be achieved will be illustrated by embodiments of the toilet lid described in the detailed description of the embodiments to follow.

In the case where the light-permeable layer is formed of multiple components which are either vertically or horizontally disposed, such that they are one next to the other or one on top of the other, to each other, the illumination means may be provided at the part of the layer where a transparent or translucent part may be provided.

In Fig. 4, exemplary configurations of the holding portion and the various components are shown in more detail. The holding portion may have a holding portion cover 250b and a holding portion body 250 which can be assembled together to form a holding portion. As shown above, the light-permeable layer of the toilet lid is partly between the upper and holding portion body when assembled. This ensures that the toilet lid is connected to the holding portion. To ensure proper assembly, the holding portion cover 250b has at least one fixing means 251a which is configured to interconnect with a corresponding fixing means 251b on the holding portion body 250b.

The hinge 290 may be provided to be fixed with the holding portion. In some embodiments, the hinge is held together with the holding portion and the light-permeable layer to ensure secure holding. In some embodiments, the hinge is integrally provided with the holding portion, forming a singular part in the process.

The holding portion may be provided such that it can accommodate a power source 270 to provide power to the illumination means 260. The holding portion enables accommodating the power source at a position that can be accessed from the outside using an opening which can be removably covered with a cover. This avoids disassembly of the holding portion to change a power source. Additionally, controller means 280 may be provided to control the illumination means 260 which can also be accommodated in the holding portion 250. The controller means receives a power supply from the power source 270. The power source 270 may comprise one or more batteries. Additionally, or alternatively, the power source may comprise a suitable energy storage device electrically connected to a photovoltaic cell that may be provided at a suitable position on the toilet or toilet lid. In this case, at least the suitable energy storage device can be accommodated in the holding portion 250.

Additionally, or alternatively, electronic components may also be provided in a compartment such as a controller circuit housing 285 which protects the components from external elements such as water and humidity. In an embodiment, the controller means 280 may be provided inside the circuit housing 285. The circuit housing 285 may be made waterproof, and all the control circuits may be accommodated inside the circuit housing 285. In an embodiment, the entire holding portion is designed such that it protects the components inside and is at least partially resistant to water.

The controller means is capable of switching on the illumination means based on the input from a switch. For example, a timer may be provided which triggers switching on the illumination means at a particular time. The time may be predefined or changed based on the place and the time where it is expected to have less use or low visibility, such as based on the working hours and daylight.

Any sensors or combinations of sensors, such as a sound sensor, motion sensor or a light sensor may be provided which allows activating the illumination means based on the changes in the surrounding such as when a person enters the toilet. Additionally, or alternatively, a button switch may be provided which may be triggered based on the use of the toilet lid (e.g., switch provided near the hinge) or even a manual ON/OFF switch may be provided to activate the illumination means.

The illumination means 260 may be any light-emitting source. In one embodiment, the illumination means is a light-emitting Diode (LED) light source. It may comprise one or more LED light sources, each of the LED light sources comprising at least one LED light or a plurality of LED lights connected to form an LED light strip. Other forms of connections are also envisaged depending on the different designs, shapes of the toilet lid and possible types of images to be illuminated. The illumination means may be of a single color or a plurality of different colours.

Although the illustration shows only a small illumination means in the middle of the holding portion as an example, it may be provided in a different position, or along the entire length of the holding portion 250.

To improve its visibility in low-light situations suiting the individual needs of a respective user of the toilet lid, a representation or a plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or a visual pattern may be provided on an upper or lower surface or a lateral face of the light-permeable layer or within the light permeable layer. When light emitted from an illumination means reaches the representation or the plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern, the representation of the plurality of representation will appear illuminated. Figs. 5A and 5B show a light-permeable layer 210 provided with a representation 220 of an image, graphical object or visual pattern, according to embodiments, respectively. Fig. 5C shows a light-permeable layer 210 provided with a plurality of representations 220a/b/c of an image, graphical object or visual pattern according to an embodiment. The representation or the plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern can be achieved by means of e.g. laser engraving, chemical etching, mechanical etching, embedding particles or particulates or other physical methods which are apparent to a person skilled in the art. Methods like laser-engraving or a embedding particles or particulates may be used to apply a representation or a plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern within the light-permeable layer. Fig. 5D illustrates the possibilities of vertically positioning a representation or a plurality of representations 220a/b/c of an image, graphical object or visual pattern within or at a light-permeable layer 210. The representation or plurality of representation may be applied to at least one surface or lateral face 213 of the light-permeable layer or within the light permeable layer with variable distances to the upper or lower surface of the light- permeable layer. The lateral or longitudinal positioning of representations of a first plurality of representation of an image, graphical object or visual pattern provided on one surface may or may not match the positioning of representations of a second and/or third plurality of representations provided on an opposite surface of the light-permeable layer or within the light-permeable layer. To further increase the visibility of the light-permeable layer, a representation or a plurality of representations may comprise or consist of a plurality of small light-scattering dots, which may be applied to the light-permeable layer by any of the methods described above. As a consequence, the representation of an image, graphical object or visual pattern comprising or consisting of the plurality of light-scattering dots appears more brightly illuminated when light from an illumination means hits the representation of an image, graphical object or visual pattern. As described above, in embodiments, the toiled lid may comprise one or more additional layers, wherein the one or more additional layers are horizontally disposed and disposed vertically above or below each other. Each additional layer may cover all or only a portion of an adjacent additional layer or the light-permeable layer. Additionally, each additional layer may comprise one or more materials, the one or more materials disposed laterally or longitudinally, next to each other within the one or more additional layers. Additionally, or alternatively, the one or more materials may be disposed vertically above or below each other within the one or more additional layers. In the following embodiments, the thickness of the layers shown varies, and in the illustrations, while the thickness of each of the layers may be provided for better intelligibility of the application, they are neither drawn to scale nor in proportion to the other layers. The additional layers are attached to the light-permeable layer or to each other using an adhesive, one or more fasteners, or any other suitable means for attaching adjoining materials. The additional layers may be on the exterior surfaces of the toilet lid, and as such form exterior layers in the embodiments below.

Fig. 6A shows the layers of a toilet lid according to one embodiment. The lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210 which may comprise a first representation 220a of an image or graphical object, such as e.g. a moon provided on either the upper or lower surface or within the light-permeable layer. An intermediate layer 230a may be provided on the upper surface of the light-permeable layer. The intermediate layer may be a diffuser sheet that is a translucent sheet that at least partially diffusely scatters any light passing through the sheet. An additional first layer 230 that is an upper exterior layer may be provided on the upper surface of the intermediate layer. The upper exterior layer may be a printed layer that may comprise a first plurality of representations (220b/c) and that is at least partially translucent, e.g. a representation of an image, graphical object or visual pattern, such as, e.g., a second moon may match the lateral or longitudinal position of the representation of the moon provided at the light-permeable layer. As a consequence, the printed representation of the second moon will be brightly illuminated as a consequence of the representation of the moon being illuminated by light being emitted from an illumination means. In case the representation of the moon provided at the light-permeable layer may comprise or consist of a plurality of small light-scattering dots, depending on the size and density of the light-scattering dots, the intermediate layer 230a may serve the purpose of masking the visual appearance of each individual light-scattering dot of the plurality of light-scattering dots such that an individual light-scattering dot may not be distinguishable from another light-scattering dot for a user of the toilet lid when illuminating the representation of the second moon provided on the upper exterior printed layer. To increase the illumination effect, the light-permeable layer may be provided with a second additional layer 240 on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. The second additional layer may be an at least partially opaque layer with a mirror or glossy effect that causes incidental light to be reflected towards an upper surface or a lateral face of the light-permeable layer and as a consequence increasing any illumination effect due to light emitted by the illumination means. A third additional layer 245 that is a lower exterior layer may be provided on the lower surface of the second additional layer. The lower exterior layer may comprise MDF or similar wood-based material, plastic or metal. Depending on the thickness of any of the other layers, the lower exterior layer may provide most of the strength and stability of the toilet lid. It should be obvious to a person skilled in the art that while representations of specific images, graphical objects or visual patterns are provided for embodiments, representations of any image, graphical object or visual pattern may be chosen, the representations being at least partially the same or different. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more of the additional layers may be removed.

Fig. 6B shows the layers of a toilet lid according to another embodiment. The lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210 which may comprise a first representation 220a of a visual pattern provided on either the upper or lower surface or within the light-permeable layer which may span the whole lateral and longitudinal dimensions of the light-permeable layer, thus allowing the whole surface to be illuminated. The first representation may be achieved as, for example, described above in the context of Figs. 5A, 5B, 5C or 5D. An intermediate layer 230a may be provided on the upper surface of the light-permeable layer. The intermediate layer may be a translucent diffuser sheet that at least partially diffusely scatters any light passing through the sheet. An additional first layer 230 that is an upper exterior layer may be provided on the upper surface of the intermediate layer. The upper exterior layer may be a printed layer that comprises a first plurality of representations (220b/c) and that is at least partially translucent. In case the representation of the visual pattern provided at the light-permeable layer may comprise or consist of a plurality of small light-scattering dots, depending on the size and density of the light-scattering dots, the intermediate layer 230a may serve the purpose of masking the visual appearance of each individual light-scattering dot of the plurality of light-scattering dots for a user of the toilet lid when illuminating the upper exterior layer. To increase the illumination effect, the light-permeable layer may be provided with a second additional layer 240 on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. The second additional layer is an at least partially opaque layer with a mirror or glossy effect that causes incidental light to be reflected towards an upper surface or a lateral face of the light-permeable layer and as a consequence increasing any illumination effect due to light emitted by the illumination means. A third additional layer 245 that is a lower exterior layer may be provided on the lower surface of the second additional layer. The lower exterior layer may comprise MDF or similar wood-based material, plastic or metal. Depending on the thickness of any of the other layers, the lower exterior layer may provide most of the strength and stability of the toilet lid. The thickness of the layers in the following illustrations varies, and while the thickness of each of the layers are provided for better intelligibility of the application, they are neither drawn to scale nor in proportion to the other layers. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more of the additional layers may be removed.

Fig. 6C shows the layers of a toilet lid according to one embodiment. The lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210 which may comprise a first representation 220a of a moon provided on either the upper or lower surface or within the light-permeable layer. This may be achieved as for example described above in the context of Figs. 5A, 5B, 5C or 5D. An intermediate layer 230a may be provided on the upper surface of the light-permeable layer. The intermediate layer may be a translucent sheet that at least partially diffusely scatters any light passing through the sheet, allowing for a more homogenous illumination. An additional first layer 230 that is an upper exterior layer may be provided on the upper surface of the intermediate layer. The upper exterior layer may be a printed layer that comprises a first plurality of representations (220b/c) and that is at least partially translucent. A representation of the first plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or pattern representing a second moon may match the lateral and longitudinal position of the first representation of a moon provided at the light-permeable layer. As a consequence, the printed representation of the second moon will be brightly illuminated as a consequence of the representation of the moon being illuminated by light emitted from an illumination means. In case the representation of the moon provided at the light-permeable layer may comprise or consist of a plurality of small light-scattering dots, depending on the size and density of the light-scattering dots, the intermediate layer 230a may also serve the purpose of masking the visual appearance of each individual light-scattering dot of the plurality of light-scattering dots for a user of the toilet lid when illuminating the representation of the second moon provided on the upper exterior printed layer. The light-permeable layer is further provided with a second additional layer 240 on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. The second additional layer is a printed layer that is at least partially opaque, provided with a second plurality of representations 220d of an image, graphical object or visual pattern. A third additional layer 245 that is a lower exterior layer may be provided on the lower surface of the second additional layer. The lower exterior layer may comprise MDF or similar wood-based material, plastic or metal. Depending on the thickness of any of the other layers, the lower exterior layer may provide most of the strength and stability of the toilet lid. It should be obvious to a person skilled in the art that while representations of specific images, graphical objects or visual patterns are provided for embodiments, representations of any image, graphical object or visual pattern may be chosen, the representations being at least partially the same or different.

Fig. 7A shows the layers of a toilet lid according to yet another embodiment. The lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210 which may comprise a first representation 220a of a moon provided on either the upper or lower surface or within the light-permeable layer. The first representation may be achieved as, for example, described above in the context of Figs. 5A, 5B, 5C or 5D. An additional first layer 230 that is an upper exterior layer may be provided on only a portion of the upper surface of the intermediate layer. For example, the layer 230 ay leave a center portion of the light-permeable layer, where the first representation of a moon may be provided, uncovered. It is also possible that, instead of or in addition to the center portion, other portions of the light-permeable layer 210 are left uncovered. The upper exterior layer may be a printed layer that comprises a first plurality of representations 220b of an image, graphical object or pattern. As a consequence, the first representation of a moon provided at the light-permeable layer appear brightly illuminated as a consequence of light being emitted from an illumination means. To increase the illumination effect, the light-permeable layer may be provided with a second additional layer 240 on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. The second additional layer may be an at least partially opaque layer with a mirror or glossy effect that causes incidental light to be reflected towards an upper surface or a lateral face of the light-permeable layer and as a consequence increasing any illumination effect due to light emitted by the illumination means. A third additional layer 245 that is a lower exterior layer may be provided on the lower surface of the second additional layer. The lower exterior layer may comprise MDF or similar wood-based material, plastic or metal. Depending on the thickness of any of the other layers, the lower exterior layer may provide most of the strength and stability of the toilet lid. It should be obvious to a person skilled in the art that while representations of specific images, graphical objects or visual patterns are provided for embodiments, representations of any image, graphical object or visual pattern may be chosen, the representations being at least partially the same or different.

Fig. 7B shows the layers of a toilet lid according to yet another embodiment. The lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210 which may comprise a first representation 220a of e.g. a moon provided on either the upper or lower surface or within the light-permeable layer. The first representation or the plurality of representations may be achieved as, for example, described above in the context of Figs. 5A, 5B, 5C or 5D. An additional first layer 230 that is an upper exterior layer may be provided on only a portion of the upper surface of the intermediate layer, leaving a center portion of the light-permeable, whereat the first representation of a moon may be provided, uncovered. It is also possible that, instead of or in addition to the center portion, other portions of the light-permeable layer 210 are left uncovered. The upper exterior layer may be a printed layer that comprises a first plurality of representations 220b of an image, graphical object or pattern. As a result, the first representation of a moon provided at the light-permeable layer appears brightly illuminated as a consequence of light being emitted from an illumination means. The light-permeable layer is further provided with a second additional layer 240 on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. The second additional layer is a printed layer that is at least partially opaque provided with a second representation 220c of a moon, wherein the second representation of a moon matches the lateral and longitudinal position of the first representation of the moon, creating a stereoscopic effect. A third additional layer 245 that is a lower exterior layer may be provided on the lower surface of the second additional layer. The lower exterior layer may comprise MDF or similar wood-based material, plastic or metal. Depending on the thickness of any of the other layers, the lower exterior layer may provide most of the strength and stability of the toilet lid. It should be obvious to a person skilled in the art that while representations of specific images, graphical objects or visual patterns are provided for embodiments, representations of any image, graphical object or visual pattern may be chosen, the representations being at least partially the same or different.

Fig. 7C shows the layers of a toilet lid according to yet another embodiment. The lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210. An additional first layer 230 that is an upper exterior layer may be provided on only a portion of the upper surface of the intermediate layer, leaving a center portion of the light-permeable uncovered. It is also possible that, instead of or in addition to the center portion, other portions of the light-permeable layer 210 are left uncovered. The upper exterior layer may be a printed layer that comprises a first plurality of representations 220a of an image, graphical object or pattern. As a result, the first representation of a moon provided at the light-permeable layer appears brightly illuminated as a consequence of light being emitted from an illumination means. The light-permeable layer is further provided with a second additional layer 240 on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. The second additional layer is a printed layer that is at least partially opaque provided with a representation 220b of a moon, wherein the representation of a moon is laterally or longitudinally positioned such that it is visible through the uncovered center portion of the light-permeable layer. A third additional layer 245 that is a lower exterior layer may be provided on the lower surface of the second additional layer. The lower exterior layer may comprise MDF or similar wood-based material, plastic or metal. Depending on the thickness of any of the other layers, the lower exterior layer may provide most of the strength and stability of the toilet lid. It should be obvious to a person skilled in the art that while representations of specific images, graphical objects or visual patterns are provided for embodiments, representations of any image, graphical object or visual pattern may be chosen, the representations being at least partially the same or different.

Fig. 8A shows the layers of a toilet lid according to yet another embodiment. The lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210 which may comprise a first representation 220a of e.g. a moon provided on either the upper or lower surface or within the light-permeable layer. The first representation may be achieved as, for example, described above in the context of Figs. 5A, 5B, 5C or 5D. An additional first layer that is an upper exterior layer may be provided on only a portion of the upper surface of the intermediate layer, leaving a center portion of the light-permeable whereat the first representation of a moon may be provided uncovered. It is also possible that, instead of or in addition to the center portion, other portions of the light-permeable layer 210 are left uncovered. The upper exterior layer may be a printed layer that comprises a first plurality of representations 220b of an image, graphical object or pattern. As a consequence, the first representation of a moon provided at the light-permeable layer appear brightly illuminated as a consequence of light being emitted from an illumination means. To increase the illumination effect, the light-permeable layer may be provided with a second additional layer 240 on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. The second additional layer may be an at least partially opaque layer with a mirror or glossy effect that causes incidental light to be reflected towards an upper surface or a lateral face of the light-permeable layer and as a consequence increasing any illumination effect due to light emitted by the illumination means. It should be obvious to a person skilled in the art that while representations of specific images, graphical objects or visual patterns are provided for embodiments, representations of any image, graphical object or visual pattern may be chosen, the representations being at least partially the same or different.

Fig. 8B shows the layers of a toilet lid according to yet another embodiment. The lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210 which may comprise a first plurality of representations of e.g. a star provided on either the upper or lower surface or within the light-permeable layer. The first representation may be achieved as, for example, described above in the context of Figs. 5A, 5B, 5C or 5D. The light-permeable layer provides most of the stability and strength of the toilet lid. An intermediate layer 230a may be provided on the upper surface of the light-permeable layer. The intermediate layer is a diffuser sheet that is a translucent sheet that at least partially diffusely scatters any light passing through the sheet, allowing a more homogenous illumination of an additional first layer that is an upper exterior layer provided on the upper surface of the intermediate layer. The upper exterior layer may be a printed layer that comprises a first plurality of representations 220b/c of an image, graphical object or pattern. As a consequence, the first plurality of representations will appear brightly illuminated as a consequence of light being emitted from an illumination means. It should be obvious to a person skilled in the art that while representations of specific images, graphical objects or visual patterns are provided for embodiments, representations of any image, graphical object or visual pattern may be chosen, the representations being at least partially the same or different.

Fig. 8C shows the layers of a toilet lid according to yet another embodiment. The lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210 which may comprise a first representation 220a of visual pattern spanning the whole lateral and longitudinal dimensions of the of the light-permeable layer provided on either the upper or lower surface or within the light-permeable layer, thus allowing the whole surface of layer provided above to be illuminated. The first representation may be achieved, for example, as described above in the context of Figs. 5A, 5B, 5C or 5D. The light-permeable layer provides most of the stability and strength of the toilet lid. An additional first layer that is an upper exterior layer may be provided on the upper surface of the intermediate layer. The upper exterior layer may be a printed layer that comprises a first plurality of representations 220b of an image, graphical object or pattern. To increase the illumination effect, the light-permeable layer may be provided with a second additional layer on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. The second additional layer 240 may be an at least partially opaque layer with a mirror or glossy effect that causes incidental light to be reflected towards an upper surface or a lateral face of the light-permeable layer and as a consequence increasing any illumination effect due to light emitted by the illumination means. It should be obvious to a person skilled in the art that while representations of specific images, graphical objects or visual patterns are provided for embodiments, representations of any image, graphical object or visual pattern may be chosen, the representations being at least partially the same or different.

Fig. 8D shows the layers of a toilet lid according to yet another embodiment. The lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210. The light-permeable layer provides most of the stability and strength of the toilet lid. An additional first layer 230 that is an upper exterior layer may be provided on the upper surface of the intermediate layer. The upper exterior layer may be a printed layer that comprises a first plurality of representations 220b/c of an image, graphical object or pattern. It should be obvious to a person skilled in the art that while representations of specific images, graphical objects or visual patterns are provided for embodiments, representations of any image, graphical object or visual pattern may be chosen, the representations being at least partially the same or different.

Fig. 9A and 9B shows the layers of a toilet lid, viewed from the upper surface and the lower surface of the toilet lid, respectively, according to one embodiment. The lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210 which may comprise a first representation 220a of an image or graphical object, such as, for example, a sun provided on either the upper or lower surface or within the light-permeable layer. The first representation may be achieved as, for example, described above in the context of Figs. 5A, 5B, 5C or 5D. The light-permeable layer provides most of the stability and strength of the toilet lid. The light-permeable layer is further provided with a second additional layer 240 on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. The second additional layer is a printed layer that is at least partially opaque provided with a second representation 220b of an image or graphical object, such as, for example, a sun provided on the upper surface of the second additional layer, wherein the second representation of a sun matches the lateral and longitudinal position of the first representation of the sun, creating a stereoscopic effect. As shown in Fig. 9B, the second additional layer is also provided with a first plurality of representations 220c of a star on the lower surface of the second additional layer. A third additional layer 245 that is a lower exterior layer may be provided on the lower surface of the second additional layer. The lower exterior layer is an at least partially transparent or translucent layer and may comprise acrylic, glass, a polyresin or similar material, allowing the first plurality of representations of a star to be seen from the lower surface of the toilet lid. It should be obvious to a person skilled in the art that while representations of specific images, graphical objects or visual patterns are provided for embodiments, representations of any image, graphical object or visual pattern may be chosen, the representations being at least partially the same or different.

Fig. 10 shows the layers of a toilet lid according to one embodiment. The lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210 which may comprise a first representation 220a of a moon comprising or consisting of a plurality of light-scattering dots provided on either the upper or lower surface or within the light-permeable layer. The first representation may be achieved as, for example, described above in the context of Figs. 5A, 5B, 5C or 5D. The light-permeable layer is further provided with a second additional layer 240 on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. The second additional layer is a printed layer that is at least partially opaque provided with a first plurality of representations 220b of a cloud. A third additional layer 245 that is a lower exterior layer may be provided on the lower surface of the second additional layer. The lower exterior layer may comprise MDF or similar wood-based material, plastic or metal. Depending on the thickness of any of the other layers, the lower exterior layer may provide most of the strength and stability of the toilet lid. It should be obvious to a person skilled in the art that while representations of specific images, graphical objects or visual patterns are provided for embodiments, representations of any image, graphical object or visual pattern may be chosen, the representations being at least partially the same or different.

Fig. 11 shows the layers of a toilet lid according to one embodiment. The lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210 which may comprise an opaque first representation 220a of e.g. a smiley face symbol printed on the upper surface of the light-permeable layer. A second representation 220b of a smiley face symbol that is negative of the first representation of a smiley face symbol may be provided on the lower surface of the light permeable layer, thus creating a stereoscopic effect when the second representation of a smiley face symbol is illuminated. The second representation may be achieved as, for example, described above in the context of Figs. 5A, 5B, 5C or 5D. The light-permeable layer is further provided with a second additional layer 240 on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. The second additional layer is an at least partially opaque layer with a mirror or glossy effect that causes incidental light to be reflected towards an upper surface or a lateral face of the light-permeable layer and as a consequence increasing any illumination effect due to light emitted by the illumination means. A third additional layer 245 that is a lower exterior layer may be provided on the lower surface of the second additional layer. The lower exterior layer may comprise MDF or similar wood-based material, plastic or metal. Depending on the thickness of any of the other layers, the lower exterior layer may provide most of the strength and stability of the toilet lid. It should be obvious to a person skilled in the art that while representations of specific images, graphical objects or visual patterns are provided for embodiments, representations of any image, graphical object or visual pattern may be chosen, the representations being at least partially the same or different.

Fig. 12A shows the layers of a toilet lid according to one embodiment. The lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210, which may comprise an opaque MDF, wood-based material, plastic or metal comprising portion 210b and a transparent or translucent portion 210a of the light-permeable layer. The opaque portion may be provided as a peripheral portion circumferentially surrounding the central transparent or translucent portion of the light-permeable layer. The transparent or translucent portion may comprise a representation of an image or graphical object 220a, such as, for example e.g. a sun, provided on either the upper or lower surface or within the light-permeable layer. The first representation may be achieved as, for example, described above in the context of Figs. 5A, 5B, 5C or 5D. The light-permeable layer provides most of the stability and strength of the toilet lid. An additional second layer 240 may be a printed layer displaying a color or a mirrored or glossy layer, thus rendering the additional second layer opaque. The additional second layer is a lower exterior layer.

Fig. 12B shows the layer of a toilet lid according to one embodiment. The lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210, which may comprise an opaque MDF, wood-based material, plastic or metal comprising portion 210b and a transparent or translucent portion 210a of the light-permeable layer. The transparent or translucent portion may be provided as a peripheral portion circumferentially surrounding the central opaque portion of the light-permeable layer. The exterior lateral face 213 of the light-permeable layer may be provided with a finish that diffusely scatters any light passing through the lateral face. An additional first layer 230 may be provided on the upper surface of the light-permeable layer comprising MDF, wood-based material, plastic or metal, thus rendering the first additional layer opaque. The first additional layer is an upper exterior layer. An additional second layer 240 may be provided on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer comprising MDF, wood-based material, plastic or metal, thus rendering the second additional layer opaque. The second additional layer is a lower exterior layer.

Fig. 13A shows a toilet lid 200 with a holding portion 250, according to one embodiment. The toilet lid 200 may be of the shape and/or configuration as described earlier in the context of any of Figs. 2A to 12B, and particularly comprise the layers described. The holding portion is substantially provided at a portion of the rear part of the toilet lid where the toilet lid is fixed to a toilet seat by means of a mechanical bearing or hinge. The toilet lid may be modified as described above and below.

Fig. 13B shows a toilet lid 200 with a holding portion 250, according to a different embodiment. The toilet lid 200 may be of the shape and/or configuration as described earlier in the context of any of Figs. 2A to 12B, and particularly comprise the layers described. The holding portion is substantially provided at the rear part of the toilet lid where a toilet lid is fixed to a toilet seat by means of a mechanical bearing or hinge. The toilet lid may be modified as described above and below.

Figs. 14A, 14B and 14C show a toilet lid 210 with a holding portion 250 and an illumination means 260 from a top view, a cross-section in lateral direction and a cross-section in longitudinal direction, respectively, according to one embodiment. As illustrated in Fig. 14A, the holding portion is substantially provided at the rear part of the toilet lid where a toilet lid is fixed to a toilet seat. A groove 310 and an illumination means 260 positioned therein are shown in Fig. 14A to merely demonstrate a possible lateral and longitudinal positioning of the groove and illumination means. The illumination means is positioned in the groove 310 provided on the lower surface of the light permeable layer 210, as illustrated in Fig. 14B. The toiled lid may comprise the light-permeable layer 210, a second additional layer 240 provided on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer, and a third additional layer 245 provided on the lower surface of the second additional layer. All layers may be modified as described above: For example, the light-permeable layer may be provided with representations of images or graphical objects as has been above in the context of Figs. 5A-D, 6A-C, 7A-C, 8A-D, 9A-B, 10, 11 or 12A-B. Also, the afore-mentioned embodiments show various modifications for the second additional layer 240 (e.g., the second additional layer may be a printed layer, or a mirrored or glossy layer, etc. ) ; it should be understood that these modifications may also be applied to the present embodiment.

The holding portion may comprise a body 250 and a cover 250b, the latter joining with the first to form the holding portion. The light-permeable layer may be provided with a recess matching the dimensions of the holding portion body to allow the holding portion body to be fixed to the toilet lid such that the upper surface of the toilet lid may be provided with a uniform profile. When the holding portion cover is joined with the holding portion body, the cover is positioned such that it protrudes from the upper surface of the toilet lid. This may be necessary if the toilet lid is not thick enough to accommodate the holding portion into the lid such that the upper surface is of a uniform profile. If the toilet lid is thick enough, it should be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the toilet lid may be provided with a recess matching the dimensions of the holding portion comprising the body and the cover to allow the whole holding portion to be fixed to the toilet lid such that the upper surface of the toilet lid is of uniform profile. Fig. 14C illustrates a cross-section along line C as shown in Fig. 14A. The light permeable layer may be provided with a groove 310 at a rear portion of its lateral face extending in a direction parallel to the upper and lower surface of the light-permeable layer. The groove allows the illumination means to be embedded within the light-permeable layer and thus to emit light into the light-permeable layer in a direction substantially parallel to the upper and lower surface of the light- permeable layer, illuminating the light-permeable layer in the process.

Fig. 15A illustrates a cross-section of a toilet lid according to one embodiment. The toilet lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210, a first additional layer 230 provided on only a portion of the upper surface of the light-permeable layer. A second additional layer 240 may be provided on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer and a third additional layer 245 provided on the lower surface of the second additional layer. The light-permeable layer and the second additional layer are provided with a recess matching the dimensions of the holding portion, thus allowing the holding portion to be fixed to the toilet lid such that the upper surface of the toilet lid is of a uniform profile. The light-permeable layer is further provided at its lower surface with a groove extending in a direction parallel to the upper and lower surface of the light-permeable layer wherein the illumination means 260 may be embedded. The first additional layer 230 covering only a portion of the light-permeable layer is laterally and longitudinally dimensioned such that when it is laterally and longitudinally positioned vertically above the groove, the illumination means are not visually detectable by a user when using a toilet with the toilet lid. All layers may be modified as described above: For example, the light-permeable layer may be provided with representations of images or graphical objects as has been above in the context of Figs. 5A-D, 6A-C, 7A-C, 8A-D, 9A-B, 10, 11 or 12A-B. Also, the afore-mentioned embodiments show various modifications for the first additional layer 230 (e.g. the first additional layer may be a printed layer or a lenticular image layer) and the second additional layer 240 (e.g., the second additional layer may be a printed layer, or a mirrored or glossy layer, etc. ) ; it should be understood that these modifications may also be applied to the present embodiment.

Fig. 15B illustrates a cross-section of a toilet lid according to one embodiment. The toilet lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210, a first additional layer 240 provided on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer and a second additional layer 245 provided on the lower surface of the first additional layer. The light-permeable layer and the first additional layer are provided with a recess matching the dimensions of the holding portion body 250, thus allowing the holding portion body to be fixed to the toilet lid such that the upper surface of the toilet lid is of a uniform profile. The holding portion cover has a larger longitudinal dimension that the holding portion body. When the holding portion cover is positioned on the holding portion body, the cover may protrude from the upper surface of the toilet lid. An illumination means 260 may be provided at a lateral face formed by the contact surface between the holding portion body and the light-permeable layer. When positioned at the holding portion body, the larger longitudinal dimension of the holding portion cover allows the illumination means to be visually undetected by a user using the toilet with the toilet lid. A dashed line illustrates the separation between the holding portion body 250 and the holding portion cover 250b. All layers may be modified as described above: For example, the light-permeable layer may be provided with representations of images or graphical objects as has been above in the context of Figs. 5A-D, 6A-C, 7A-C, 8A-D, 9A-B, 10, 11 or 12A-B. Also, the afore-mentioned embodiments show various modifications for the first additional layer 240 (e.g., the first additional layer may be a printed layer, or a mirrored or glossy layer, etc. ) ; it should be understood that these modifications may also be applied to the present embodiment.

Fig. 15C illustrates a cross-section of a toilet lid according to one embodiment. The toilet lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210. An intermediate layer 230a may be provided on the upper surface of the light-permeable layer. A first additional layer 230 may be provided on the upper surface of the intermediate layer. A second additional layer 240 may be provided on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. A third additional layer 245 may be provided on the lower surface of the second additional layer. An illumination means 260 may be provided at a portion of the exterior lateral face of the light-permeable layer at the rear portion of the toilet lid. A holding portion 250 may be provided at the rear portion of the toilet lid, the toilet lid being partially in between a first portion of the holding portion forming an upper surface of the holding portion, and a second portion of the holding portion forming a lower surface of the holding portion when the toilet lid is assembled with the holding portion. All layers may be modified as described above: For example, the light-permeable layer may be provided with representations of images or graphical objects as has been above in the context of Figs. 5A-D, 6A-C, 7A-C, 8A-D, 9A-B, 10, 11 or 12A-B. Also, the afore-mentioned embodiments show various modifications for the first additional layer 230 (e.g. the first additional layer may be a printed layer or a lenticular image layer) and the second additional layer 240 (e.g., the second additional layer may be a printed layer, or a mirrored or glossy layer, etc. ) ; it should be understood that these modifications may also be applied to the present embodiment.

The holding portion may also be provided at the lateral face of the toilet lid near the rear portion of the lid as a hollow rod-like element to accommodate at least one of a power supply, a control circuit, switching circuit or illumination means. The holding portion may be at least partially embedded in the toilet lid inside a recess adapted to accommodate at least a portion of the holding portion.

Fig. 16A illustrates a cross-section of a toilet lid with a holding portion according to one embodiment. The toilet lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210. An intermediate layer 230a may be provided on the upper surface of the light-permeable layer. The intermediate layer is a diffuser sheet. A first additional layer 230 may be provided on the upper surface of the intermediate layer. The first additional layer may comprise a representation or a plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern. The light-permeable layer may be provided at its lower surface with a groove extending in a direction parallel to the upper and lower surface of the light-permeable layer wherein the illumination means 260 may be embedded. A second additional layer 240 may be provided on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. All layers may be modified as described above: For example, the light-permeable layer may be provided with representations of images or graphical objects as has been above in the context of Figs. 5A-D, 6A-C, 7A-C, 8A-D, 9A-B, 10, 11 or 12A-B. Also, the afore-mentioned embodiments show various modifications for the first additional layer 230 (e.g. the first additional layer may be a printed layer or a lenticular image layer) and the second additional layer 240 (e.g., the second additional layer may be a printed layer, or a mirrored or glossy layer, etc. ) ; it should be understood that these modifications may also be applied to the present embodiment.

Further, a hollow, rod-like holding portion 250 may be provided at the rear portion of the toilet lid. The toilet lid may be provided at a portion of the lateral face at the rear part lid with a recess extending along a direction parallel to the upper and lower surface of the toilet lid. The recess extension in the direction along the lateral face substantially parallel to the upper and lower surface of the toilet lid matches the extension of the holding portion in the direction of the surface normal of the cross-section of the holding portion. The cross-section of the recess matches the cross-section of the holding portion such that the holding portion can be fixed into the recess. A portion of the holding portion may protrude from the lateral face of the toilet lid. The holding portion may be fixed to the toilet lid by conventional mechanical means or by magnetic means, e.g. the holding portion may comprise a magnetic material or first one or more magnetic elements that exhibit an attractive force onto second one or more magnetic elements provided at or in the recess. The intermediate layer or the first additional layer are at least partially opaque or translucent such that illumination means may not be visually detectable by a user of the toilet with the toilet lid.

Fig. 16B illustrates a cross-section of a toilet lid according to one embodiment. The toilet lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210. An intermediate layer 230a may be provided on the upper surface of the light-permeable layer. The intermediate layer may be a diffuser sheet. A first additional layer 230 may be provided on the upper surface of the intermediate layer. The first additional layer may comprise a representation or a plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern. A second additional layer 240 may be provided on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. A hollow, rod-like holding portion 250 has a cross-section formed by joining a first semi-circle and a second semi-circle, the radius of the first semi-circle larger than the radius of the second semi-circle. The toilet lid may be provided with a recess at a portion of the lateral face of the toilet lid near the rear portion of the toilet lid, the recess extending along the lateral face in a direction substantially parallel to the upper and lower surface of the toilet lid. The cross-section of the recess matches the cross-section of the second semi-circle of the cross-section of the holding portion such that the holding portion can be fixed into the recess with a portion of the holding portion protruding from the lateral face of the toilet lid. An illumination means 260 may be provided on a portion of the inner face of the recess formed by the light-permeable layer. The intermediate layer or the first additional layer are at least partially opaque or translucent such that illumination means may not be visually detectable by a user of the toilet with the toilet lid. All layers may be modified as described above: For example, the light-permeable layer may be provided with representations of images or graphical objects as has been above in the context of Figs. 5A-D, 6A-C, 7A-C, 8A-D, 9A-B, 10, 11 or 12A-B. Also, the afore-mentioned embodiments show various modifications for the first additional layer 230 (e.g. the first additional layer may be a printed layer or a lenticular image layer) and the second additional layer 240 (e.g., the second additional layer may be a printed layer, or a mirrored or glossy layer, etc. ) ; it should be understood that these modifications may also be applied to the present embodiment.

Fig. 16C illustrates a cross-section of a toilet lid according to one embodiment with a holding portion. The toilet lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210. A first additional layer 240 may be provided on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. A second additional layer 245 may be provided on the lower surface of the first additional layer. All layers may be modified as described above: For example, the light-permeable layer may be provided with representations of images or graphical objects as has been above in the context of Figs. 5A-D, 6A-C, 7A-C, 8A-D, 9A-B, 10, 11 or 12A-B. Also, the afore-mentioned embodiments show various the first additional layer 240 (e.g., the second additional layer may be a printed layer, or a mirrored or glossy layer, etc. ) ; it should be understood that these modifications may also be applied to the present embodiment.

A portion of the hollow, rod-like holding portion 250 has a cross-section formed by joining a first semi-circle and a second semi-circle, the radius of the first semi-circle larger than the radius of the second semi-circle and further may comprise a flap portion that, when assembled with the toilet lid, covers at least a portion of the upper surface of the light-permeable layer near the rear part of the toilet lid. The toilet lid may be provided with a recess at a portion of the lateral face of the toilet lid near the rear portion of the toilet lid, the recess extending along the lateral face in a direction substantially parallel to the upper and lower surface of the toilet lid. The cross-section of the recess matches the cross-section of the second semi-circle of the cross-section of the holding portion such that the holding portion can be fixed into the recess with a portion of the holding portion protruding from the lateral face of the toilet lid. An illumination means 260 may be provided on a portion of the inner face of the recess formed by the light-permeable layer. The flap portion of the holding portion covering a portion of the upper surface of the light-permeable layer allows the illuminations means to be visually undetectable by a user of the toilet with the toilet lid.

While the cross-sections of the hollow, rod-like holding portion of embodiments are shown to comprise circular or elliptic shapes, the cross-section can be of suitable shape such as any polygonal shape.

Figs. 17A and 17B illustrate a top view and a cross-section, along line B as shown in Fig. 17A, of a toilet lid, respectively, according to one embodiment, comprising a holding portion 250 provided with hinges 290. The toilet lid may be modified as described above: For example, the toilet lid may comprise an additional first layer and/or an additional second layer and/or an additional third layer as described above in the context of Figs. 5A-D, 6A-C, 7A-C, 8A-D, 9A-B, 10, 11 or 12A-B. The light-permeable layer may be provided with representations of images or graphical objects as has been above in the context of Figs. 5A-D, 6A-C, 7A-C, 8A-D, 9A-B, 10, 11 or 12A-B. Also, the afore-mentioned embodiments show various modifications for a first additional layer (e.g. the first additional layer may be a printed layer or a lenticular image layer) and a second additional layer (e.g., the second additional layer may be a printed layer, or a mirrored or glossy layer, etc. ) ; it should be understood that these modifications may also be applied to the present embodiment.

The purpose of the hinges is to connect the toilet lid to a toilet seat or a toilet in a rotatable or pivotable manner in relation to the toilet seat or toilet. Fig. 17A shows a holding portion and hinges that are integrally formed into a single element with a suitable material, e.g. acrylic, metal, plastic. The holding portion may be provided at the rear portion of the toilet lid, the toilet lid being partially in between a first portion of the holding portion forming an upper surface of the holding portion, and a second portion of the holding portion forming a lower surface of the holding portion when the toilet lid is assembled with the holding portion. The toilet lid may be modified in accordance with any one of the embodiments described previously and in the following.

Figs. 18A and 18B illustrate a top view and a cross-section of a toilet lid, respectively, according to one embodiment. Fig. 18A shows the light-permeable layer 210 with a representation 220 of an image of, for example, an aquatic environment. The representation of an image of an aquatic environment may be applied to the light-permeable by laser engraving, mechanic or chemical etching or by embedding light-scattering particles. The representation of an image of an aquatic environment may be applied, depending on the chosen technique, on the upper surface 211, the lower surface 212, or within the light-permeable layer. For example, an object may be laser engraved or etched on the upper surface of the light-permeable layer such a plurality of representations 220a of an object e.g. representing the water bubbles. When the light-permeable layer is illuminated, the plurality of representations of an object e.g. representing the water bubbles on the top are also illuminated due to the dispersion and diffusion of light.

Similarly, it is also possible to laser engrave or etch a representation or a plurality of representations of an object on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. For example, the plurality of representations 220b of an object e.g. representing the shells and reef in the background of the image are provided on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. Therefore, when the light-permeable layer is illuminated, the objects in the lower surface are also illuminated due to the dispersion and diffusion of light.

Similarly, it is also possible to laser engrave a representation of an object within the light-permeable layer, e.g. in the vertical center of the layer, or at some desired distance from the upper or lower surface. In the example, the representation of an object 220 showing e.g. a dolphin is engraved in the middle of the light-permeable layer such that when the layer is illuminated, the object is illuminated.

In preferred configurations, a combination of printing a first representation or a first plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer and mechanically laser engraving a second representation or a second plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern is possible. For example, taking the example of Fig. 18A, a representation 220 of an image of e.g. an aquatic environment may be printed on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer, either alone, or in combination with other representations of an image, graphical object or color, e.g. blue for the sea. A plurality of representations of an object 220b may be laser-engraved into or onto the light-permeable layer so that upon activating the illumination means, a strong visual or stereoscopic effect is created. This effect could, at least to some extent, also be achieved if the plurality of representations of an object 220b are mechanically etched on the upper or lower surface of the light-permeable layer. Notably, a highly precise coordination between the printed objects and the laser engraved/etched objects is not necessary, since a user would typically not realize whether the shells 220b in the example of Fig. 18A are arranged exactly the same in all toilet lids produced (or maybe slightly shifted, by e.g. a small distance in horizontal or vertical direction) . Thus, this method allows for a reasonable degree of manufacturing tolerances.

By providing the objects on different surfaces, it is generally possible to create a stereoscopic effect using light. Since it is also possible to provide a different colour of light, an appropriate colour, such as blue in this instance, can be selected to resemble the environment on the image such as an ocean, or the surrounding décor of the toilet.

As shown in Fig. 18B, a first additional layer 230 and a second additional layer 240 are provided on the surfaces of the light-permeable layer. The thickness of the layers varies, and in the illustration, while the thickness of each of the layers are provided for better intelligibility of the application, they are neither drawn to scale nor in proportion to the other layers.

In the embodiment, the first additional layer 230 is disposed on the upper surface 211 of the light-permeable layer to form an exterior layer on the upper surface. The first layer may comprise material on which a representation or a plurality of representations of an image, object or visual pattern may be printed. Alternatively, or additionally, the exterior layer may be a laminated surface provided for a smooth finishing, or to attenuate the image. As shown in the figure, the first exterior layer 230 in the example shown in the illustration is a ring-like image on the upper surface providing an attenuating effect to the light-permeable layer. Especially, since the light disperses from between the light-permeable layer to outside, various effects can be realized by including a combination of different possible exterior layers.

Similarly, the second additional layer 240 is disposed on the lower surface 212 of the light-permeable layer to form an exterior layer on the lower surface in this embodiment. The second additional layer is at least partially opaque, or at least translucent such that visibility into the toilet bowl is reduced. Although the layer is opaque since it may be provided below the light-permeable layer, the effect of the illumination is not lost. In the embodiment, the second additional layer is a printed layer. In an embodiment, the layer is mirrored or glossy layer or is otherwise made reflective, such that a mirror effect may be realized, which also enhances the illumination. This mirroring effect can also produce the light-permeable layer 210 to be visible in certain colors, e.g. blue, green, pink, etc. A third additional layer 245 may be applied to the lower surface of the second additional layer, forming a lower exterior layer. The lower exterior layer may be metal, MDF, wood-based material, plastic or other opaque or translucent materials.

Figs. 19A and 19B illustrate a toilet lid with an illuminations means embedded in the external light-permeable layer, respectively, according to one embodiment. Fig. 19A shows a light-permeable layer 210 that is a composite layer comprising a central portion 210a comprising acrylic, plastic or glass and an outer, transparent or translucent portion 210b comprising MDF, wood-based material, plastic or metal, on the periphery, circumferentially surrounding the inner portion. The light-permeable layer is an upper exterior layer. A first representation of an object 220a representing e.g. a moon may be provided at the light-permeable layer. The first representation of an object may be provided on the upper or lower surface of the light-permeable layer by means of laser engraving, mechanical or chemical etching or embedding light-scattering particles or particulates within the light-permeable layer by means of laser engraving or embedding light-scattering particles. Illumination means 260 may be positioned in a groove provided along the inner lateral face of the outer portion formed by the contact surface between the lateral face of the inner portion and the inner lateral face of the outer portion as shown in the cross-section in Fig. 19B along line B of Fig. 19A, circumferentially surrounding the inner portion. In one embodiment, the illumination means 260 may be positioned in a groove provided along at least a portion of the lateral face of the inner portion formed by the contact surface between the lateral face of the inner portion and the inner lateral face of the outer portion. A second additional layer 240 may be disposed on the lower surface of the exterior light-permeable layer. The second layer is an opaque, printed layer comprising a plurality of representations 220b of a graphical object e.g. representing a four-pointed star on e.g. a colored background, as shown in Fig. 19, creating a strong visual or stereoscopic effect when the light-permeable layer is illuminated by the illumination means. In one embodiment, the representation 220a and the plurality of representations 220b may be provided on the upper and lower surface of the light-permeable layer, respectively, while the second additional layer is a printed layer displaying a representation 220c of an image representing a night sky or a color, creating a strong visual or stereoscopic effect when the light-permeable layer 210 is illuminated by the illumination means 260. A third additional layer 245 is an opaque layer disposed on the lower surface of the second layer and may comprise MDF, wood-based material, plastic or metal or similar opaque material to form a lower exterior layer. The third additional layer being an opaque layer renders the toilet lid opaque and therefore reduces visibility of the toilet bowl through the toilet lid when the lid is closed.

Figs. 20A, 20B, 20C and 20D show a top view and three cross-sections of a toilet lid, respectively, according to one embodiment. The light-permeable layer 210 is a composite layer comprising a rear portion 210b near the hinges comprising MDF, wood-based material, plastic or metal or similar opaque material and a transparent or translucent main portion 201a comprising acrylic, plastic or glass. The transparent portion may be provided with a first representation 220a of an image representing e.g. a moon and a first plurality of representations 22ob of an image, representing e.g. a four-pointed star, on the upper surface, the lower surface or within the light-permeable layer, accordingly achieved by means of laser-engraving, mechanical or chemical etching, embedding light-scattering particles or particulates or similar methods. As shown in Fig. 20B, a second additional layer 240 is a printed layer, provided with a second representation of an image representing a night sky or a color, provided on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. In one embodiment, the first representation 220a of a moon may be provided at the light-permeable layer while a first plurality 220b of an image representing e.g. a four-pointed star on a background of a night sky may be provided at the printed second additional layer. A third additional second layer 240 comprising MDF, wood-based material, plastic or metal, may be disposed on the lower surface of the light permeable layer to form a lower exterior layer. The third additional layer being an opaque layer renders the toilet lid opaque and therefore reduces visibility of the toilet bowl through the toilet lid when the lid is closed. The lower exterior layer may be provided with a holding portion 250 embedded in a hollow matching the dimensions of the holding portion provided on the lower surface of the lower exterior layer such that the holding portion forms a smooth surface together with the lower surface of the lower exterior layer. The holding portion is configured to accommodate a power source 270 and a control circuit 280 with a switching circuit. It should be noted that the holding portion 250 is shown in Fig. 20A merely to demonstrate a possible lateral and longitudinal positioning of the holding portion within the toilet lid. The holding portion however is neither visible nor accessible from the upper surface of the toilet lid. The holding portion may comprise a holding portion body and a holding portion cover, the cover being removable from the body to allow access to the holding portion in case of required maintenance, parts replacement of e.g. the power source, or repairs. The cover and body are adapted such that they are at least partially water resistant. As shown in Fig. 20C and 20D, the illumination means 260 are provided in one or more cavities 310 embedded within the opaque rear portion 210b of the light-permeable layer that extend to a lateral face formed by the contact surface between the opaque rear portion and transparent or translucent main portion. One or more of the one or more cavities may be accessible from the lower exterior layer 245 by means of one or more access entries extending from the lower exterior surface through the second additional layer to the cavities 310 embedded in the opaque rear portion 210b of the light-permeable layer to allow access to the illumination means in case of required maintenance, parts replacement or repairs. To protect the illumination means, the one or more access entries of the one or more cavities may be provided with a cover that is at least partially water resistant. It should be noted that the cavities 310 and the illumination means embedded therein are only shown in Fig. 20A to demonstrate a possible lateral positioning of the cavities within the toilet lid. The cavities do not extend to and are therefore neither visible nor accessible from the upper surface of the toilet lid.

Figs. 21A and 21B show a top view and a cross-sections of a toilet lid, according to one embodiment. Fig. 21A shows a light-permeable layer 210 provided with a groove 310 extending along a lateral direction on the lower surface of the light permeable layer and illumination means 260 are positioned therein. Fig. 21B shows the layers of the toilet lid. The light-permeable layer may be provided with a representation or a plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern as described above in the context of Figs. 5A, 5B, 5C or 5D. An intermediate layer 230a that is a translucent diffuser sheet may be provided on the upper surface of the light-permeable layer 210. The purpose of the intermediate layer is to allow a more homogenous illumination of a first additional layer 230 that is an upper exterior layer provided on the upper surface of the intermediate layer 230a by randomly scattering and therefore at least partially diffusing any illumination provided by the light-permeable layer being illuminated by the illumination means. The upper exterior layer is at least partially translucent. In one embodiment, the upper exterior layer is a printed layer comprising a representation of image representing a color, creating a visual effect when the light-permeable layer is illuminated and thus illuminates the translucent portions of the upper exterior layer. In one embodiment, the upper exterior layer 230 may comprise a plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern, creating a strong visual effect when the light-permeable layer is illuminated and thus illuminates the upper exterior layer. In another embodiment, the upper exterior layer is a lenticular image layer that is at least partially translucent, creating a strong visual effect when then light-permeable layer is illuminated and thus also illuminating translucent portions of the upper exterior layer. Another purpose of the intermediate layer 230a is to at least partially visually mask the illumination means embedded within the light-permeable layer to a user of the toilet with the toilet lid. To increase the illumination effect of the upper exterior layer, in one embodiment, the light-permeable layer may be provided with a representation or a plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern comprising or consisting of a plurality of light-scattering dots provided by means of laser engraving, mechanical or chemical etching or by embedding light-scattering particles or particulates on the upper surface, the lower surface or within the light-permeable layer. A second additional layer 240 that is an opaque layer comprising MDF, wood-based material, plastic or metal or similar opaque material may be provided on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. The second additional layer is a lower exterior layer and prevents visibility of the toilet bowl through the toilet lid when the toilet lid is closed. The lower exterior layer 240 may be provided with a hollow or recess on the lower surface of the lower exterior layer matching the dimensions of the holding portion such that the holding portion may be embedded within the lower exterior layer, the holding portion therefore not protruding from the lower surface of the lower exterior layer and as a consequence forming a smooth surface with the lower surface of the lower exterior layer. The holding portion may comprise a holding portion body and a holding portion cover, the cover being removable from the body at the lower surface of the toilet lid to allow access to the holding portion in case of required maintenance, parts replacement of e.g. the power source, or repairs. The cover and body are adapted such that they are at least partially water resistant. The holding portion is configured to accommodate a power source 270 and a control circuit 280 with a switching circuit. It should be noted that the holding portion 250, the cavities 310 and the illumination means 260 positioned therein are shown in Fig. 21A merely to demonstrate a possible lateral and longitudinal positioning within the toilet lid. The holding portion, the cavities and the illumination means, however, are neither visible nor accessible from the upper surface of the toilet lid.

Figs. 22A and 22B show a top view and a cross-section of a toilet lid, respectively, according to one embodiment. As shown, the toilet lid may comprise a first and second plurality of

representations

220a and 220b of an object e.g. representing a cloud or a four-pointed star. A holding portion 250 may be provided at the rear portion of the toilet lid. The holding portion accommodates an illumination means 260. It should be noted that the illuminations means are merely shown to demonstrate a possible lateral and longitudinal positioning of the illumination means within the toilet lid. The illuminations, however, are neither visible nor accessible from the upper surface of the toilet lid. Fig. 22B shows, according to the embodiment, the layers comprised in the toilet lid. A light-permeable layer 210 may be provided, on the upper surface of which an intermediate layer 230a may be provided. The intermediate layer 230a may be a translucent diffuser sheet, whose purpose is to provide a more homogenous illumination of a first additional layer 230 that is an upper exterior layer provided on the upper surface of the intermediate layer 230a by randomly scattering and therefore at least partially diffusing any illumination light provided by the light-permeable layer being illuminated by the illumination means. The upper exterior layer is at least partially translucent and may be a printed layer or a lenticular image layer c0mprising the first and the second plurality of

representations

220a and 220b of an object e.g. representing a cloud or a four-pointed star, creating a strong visual effect when then light-permeable layer is illuminated and thus also illuminates the translucent portions of the upper exterior layer. A second additional layer 240 that is a lower exterior layer may be provided on the bottom surface of the light-permeable layer 210. The lower exterior layer is an opaque layer and may comprise MDF, wood-based material, plastic or metal or similar opaque material. The lower exterior layer may be provided with a hollow 310 on the lower surface of the lower exterior layer, configured to accommodate a power source 270 and a control circuit 280 with switching circuit. The hollow may be provided with an at least partially water-resistant cover protecting the accommodated components. The holding portion is a hollow, rod-like element provided at a portion of the lateral face at the rear portion of the toilet lid. The lateral face may be provided with a groove extending along the portion of the lateral, the cross-section and extent of the groove such that at least a portion of the holding portion can be accommodated in the groove. The holding portion is further provided with a cut-out for accommodating and positioning the illuminations means such that when the holding portion is assembled with the toilet lid, the illumination means illuminate the light-permeable layer by emitting light in directions substantially parallel to the upper and lower surface of the light-permeable layer.

Figs. 23A and 23B illustrate a top view and a cross-section of a toilet lid, respectively, according to a preferred embodiment. A toilet lid with a light-permeable layer as an upper exterior may be provided with a holding portion 250 at the rear part of the toilet lid. In one embodiment, a first and second plurality of

representations

220a and 220b of an object e.g. representing a cloud or a four-pointed star are applied to the light-permeable layer. The first and second plurality of representations 220a and 22b may be achieved as, for example, described above in the context of Figs. 5A, 5B, 5C or 5D. The plurality of representations may be provided on the upper surface or lower surface by means of laser engraving, mechanical or chemical etching. Additionally, or alternatively, the first or second plurality of

representations

220a and 220b may also be provided within the light-permeable layer. As shown in Fig. 23B, a second additional layer 240 may be provided on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer. In one embodiment, the second additional layer is a printed layer comprising a representation 220c of an image e.g. representing a sky, creating a strong visual or stereoscopic effect when the light-permeable layer is illuminated by an illumination means 260. In one embodiment, the printed layer 240 may comprise the first plurality of representations 220a and the representation 220c of a sky while the second plurality of representations 220b of a four-pointed star may be provided on the upper or within the light-permeable layer, creating a strong visual or stereoscopic effect when the light-permeable layer is illuminated by the illumination means. A third additional layer 245 that is a lower exterior layer may be provided on the lower surface of the printed layer and may comprise MDF, wood-based material, plastic or metal. The holding portion 250 is a hollow, rod-like element with a flap portion provided at the portion of the lateral face at the rear part of the toilet lid. When assembled with the toilet lid, the flap portion extends onto a rear portion of the upper surface of the light-permeable layer, covering the rear portion of the upper exterior layer and thus rendering the rear portion of the toilet lid opaque. The lateral face at the rear portion of the toilet lid may be provided with a groove having a circularly shaped cross-section matching the shape and dimensions of a part of the holding portion such that the groove can accommodate at least a portion of the holding portion when the surface normals of the cross-section of the groove at the later face of the toilet lid and the holding portion are in parallel. The holding portion further may be provided with a cut-out to accommodate the illumination means such that, when the holding portion is assembled with the toilet lid, the illumination means are positioned at the lateral face of the light-permeable layer at the rear portion of the light-permeable layer and can illuminate the light-permeable layer in a direction substantially parallel to the upper and lower surface of the light-permeable layer. The flap portion of the holding portion renders the lateral and longitudinal position of the toilet lid opaque, at which the illumination means are provided at the lateral face of the light-permeable layer, thus reducing visibility of the illumination means by a user of the toilet lid. The holding portion is assembled with and consequently joined with the toilet lid by magnetic means. In one embodiment, the groove at the lateral face of the toilet lid, configured to accommodate at least a portion of the toilet lid, and the holding portion itself, are provided with a first magnet or plurality of magnets and a second magnet or second a plurality of magnets, respectively, that are positioned such that they create a suitable and suitably strong attractive force able to hold the holding portion and the toilet lid together. In one embodiment, the groove at the lateral face of the toilet lid may be provided with a magnet or a plurality of magnets while the holding portion may comprise a ferromagnetic material, such that the ferromagnetic material and the magnet or plurality of magnets of the groove create a suitable and suitably strong attractive force able to hold the holding portion and the toilet lid together.

Figs. 24A and 24B illustrate a top view and a cross-section of a toilet lid, respectively, with a holding portion 250 and hinges 290, according to one embodiment. Fig. 24A shows a light- permeable layer 210 that is an upper exterior layer. The holding portion may be provided at the rear part of the toilet lid. The holding portion 250 and hinges 290, which allow the toilet lid to be fixed to a toilet seat in a rotatable or pivotable manner, are integrated into the holding portion and may be formed of the same material. Fig. 24B shows that the light-permeable layer may comprise a transparent portion 210a and an opaque portion 210b comprising plastic or metal. A first additional layer 240 may be provided on the lower surface of the transparent portion 210a of the light-permeable layer, but not on the lower surface of the opaque portion 210b of the light-permeable layer. The first additional layer 240 is a printed sheet which may comprise a representation or a plurality of representations of an image, object or visual pattern (not shown) . The printed layer may also display a representation of a color. A second additional layer 245 that is an opaque lower exterior layer may be provided on the lower surface of the first additional layer and the lower surface of the opaque portion 210b of the light-permeable layer. In the embodiment, the opaque portion 210b of the light-permeable layer, the lower exterior layer 245, the holding portion 250, which may comprise a holding portion body and a holding portion cover, and the hinges 290, are integrally formed of a same material. In a preferred embodiment, the same material may comprise plastic. This simplifies the manufacturing process and further lowers manufacturing costs. The opaque portion 210b is further provided with a cut-out or groove to accommodate an illumination means 260 such that an illumination means can illuminate the light-permeable layer in direction substantially parallel to the upper and lower surface of the toilet lid. As the illumination means is embedded within the opaque portion of the light-permeable layer, the illuminations means cannot be visually detected by a user of the toilet.

Fig. 25A and 25B show an angled view and a cross-section of a toilet lid, respectively, with an illuminated ring effect, according to one embodiment. In this embodiment, the light-permeable layer 210 may be provided with a first additional layer on the upper surface of the light-permeable layer, the first additional layer being an opaque upper exterior layer. A second additional layer 240 may be provided on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer, the second additional layer being an opaque lower exterior layer. Both exterior layers may be of the same or different material and comprise, MDF, wood-based material, plastic or metal. Fig. 25B shows the layers of the toilet lid. As only the lateral face 213 of the light-permeable layer is visible to a user of the toilet, the light-permeable layer, according to one embodiment, may comprise an opaque inner portion 210b and a transparent peripheral portion 210a circumferentially surrounding the inner portion. In order to increase visibility of the light-permeable layer when illuminated, the exterior lateral face 213 may be provided with surface modifications that diffusely scatter light. To increase an illumination effect, the lateral face of the opaque inner portion formed by the contact surface between the opaque portion 210b and the transparent 210a of the light-permeable layer may be modified to reflect or diffusely reflect light into the transparent portion of the light-permeable layer.

Figs. 26A, 26B and 26C show an angled view, a top view and a cross-section of a toilet lid, respectively, according to one embodiment. The toilet lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210 that is a light-permeable strip of only the partial size of the size of the toilet lid associated with the size and dimensions of a toilet bowl onto which the toilet lid may be installed. A first additional layer 240 having substantially the same size and dimensions associated with the toilet lid and toilet bowl is applied to the lower surface of the light-permeable strip. The light-permeable strip may have the same lateral dimensions as the portion of the second additional layer, on top of which the light-permeable strip is placed. The second additional layer is a printed layer and may comprise a representation 220a or a plurality of representations 220b of an image, graphical object or visual pattern. In one embodiment, the second additional layer is a lenticular image comprising a representation 220a or a plurality of representations 220b of an image, graphical object or visual pattern. In one embodiment, the second additional layer 240 is a lenticular image layer displaying a representation 220a or a plurality of representations 220b of an image, graphical object or visual pattern. A holding portion 250 with a U-shaped or similarly shaped cross-section may be provided at the rear portion of the toilet lid such that the toilet lid is positioned in between a first portion of the holding portion that forms an upper surface of the holding portion, and a second portion of the holding portion that forms a lower surface of the holding portion. As a result, the first portion of the holding portion is positioned such that it is applied onto at least a portion of the upper surface of the light-permeable strip, rendering a portion of the light-permeable layer visually undetectable by a user. An illumination means 260 is accommodated in the holding portion and position at a portion of the lateral face at the rear portion of the light-permeable strip such that the illumination means illuminates the light-permeable strip in a direction substantially parallel to the upper surface of the toilet lid. The illumination means is longitudinally and laterally positioned such that it is positioned below the first portion of the holding portion and is therefore not visually detectable by a user of the toilet. As the light-permeable strip allows light emitted by the illumination means to pass through a lateral face 213 towards a portion of the second additional layer that is not covered by the light-permeable strip, the second additional layer comprising a representation or a plurality of representations of an image, object or visual pattern is illuminated. The light-permeable strip protects the illumination means from external influences and disperses light to allow illumination of the second additional layer by the illumination means. The lateral face 213 may further be modified to diffusely scatter light.

Figs. 27A, 27B, 27C and 27D illustrate an angled view of a holding portion and a rear portion of a toilet lid, a cross-section of the holding portion and the rear portion of the toilet lid, a frontal view of the holding portion, and a rear view of the rear portion of the toilet lid, respectively, according to one embodiment. Fig. 27A illustrates a holding portion 250 that may be attached to a rear portion of the toilet lid 200. The toilet lid may comprise a light-permeable layer 210. The light-permeable layer may comprise one or more representations or plurality of representations of a graphical object, an image or a visual pattern. The one or more representation or plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern can be achieved by means of e.g. laser engraving, chemical etching, mechanical etching, embedding particles or particulates or other physical methods which are apparent to a person skilled in the art. They may be applied to the light-permeable layer at positions as shown and described in the context of Fig. 5D. A second additional layer 240 is applied to the lower surface of the light-permeable layer 210. A third additional layer 245 that is a lower exterior layer of the toilet lid is applied to the lower surface of the second additional layer. The second additional layer and the third additional layer may be configured and/or adapted as described above in the context of Figs. 9A, 9B, 10 and 11. The second additional layer 240 may also be removed, so that the third additional layer may be provided at the lower exterior surface of the toilet lid. The holding portion 250 may be provided with fixing means 251a and may accommodate a controller circuit 280, a power source 270 and illuminations means 260. The illumination means may be provided as an LED light strip that is positioned such that, when the holding portion is assembled with the toilet lid, the illuminations means are positioned at the lateral face of the rear portion of the toilet lid. This allows the light-permeable layer to be illuminated such that the light emitted by the illumination means is emitted in a direction substantially parallel to the upper and lower surface of the light-permeable layer. The dashed lines indicate the trajectory, along which the holding portion may be attached to and assembled with the rear portion of the toilet lid. Fig. 27B illustrates a cross-section of the holding portion 250 and the toilet lid 200 shown in Fig. 27A. The fixing means 251a are positioned such that they may be fitted with fixing means 251b (not shown in Fig. 27B) provided at the rear portion of the toilet in order to assemble the holding portion with rear portion of the toilet lid. The toilet lid may comprise the light-permeable layer 210. A second additional layer 240 may be provided on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer, and a third additional layer 245 may be provided at the lower surface of the second additional layer 240. Fig. 27C illustrates a frontal view of the holding portion when viewed in the direction as indicated by the arrow labeled C in Fig. 27B. The fixing means 251a provided at the holding portion match the positions of the fixing means 251b provided at the rear portion of the toilet lid as illustrated in Fig. 27D. The fixing means 251a may be fitted with the fixing means 251b in order to assemble the holding portion with the rear portion of the toilet lid. The controller circuit 280 and the power source 270 are provided in a casing inside the holding portion. The casing does not extend the entire length of the holding portion. A portion of the casing covering the power source may be separated from a portion of the casing covering the controller circuit. The two portions may be separated by sliding the portion of the casing covering the power source away from the casing covering the controller circuit in the direction into which the length of the holding portion extends, revealing at least part of the power source. This allows the power source to be exchanged or repaired. Fig 27D. illustrates a rear view of the holding portion when viewed in the direction as indicated by the arrow labeled D in Fig. 27B. The fixing means 251b are dimensioned and positioned such that they may be fitted with the fixing means 251a provided at the holding portion. The toilet lid may comprise the light-permeable layer 210, the second additional layer 240 provided at the lower surface of the light-permeable layer, and a third additional layer 245 that is the lower exterior layer of the toilet lid provided at the lower surface of the second additional layer.

Although the illustrations describe the illumination of a light-permeable layer on a toilet lid, the same effect can also easily be realized on a toilet seat using the above-described arrangement, which can be adapted to a shape of a toilet seat.

It is possible to provide an assembly, either with one of the toilet lid or toilet seat implementing the above invention.

It is also possible to provide an assembly wherein both the toilet lid and the toilet seat implements the above invention. For this assembly, it is possible to adapt in a manner that a single set of components, such as one power source, one controller, one switch, etc., can be used on both the lid and the seat.

While this disclosure has described certain embodiments and generally associated methods, alterations and permutations of these embodiments and methods will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the above description of example embodiments does not define or constrain this disclosure. Other changes, substitutions, and alterations are also possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, as defined by the following claims.

LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS AS USED IN THE DRAWINGS:

100: toilet

110: toilet seat (ring, seating board)

120: toilet bowl

200: toilet lid

210: light-permeable layer

210a: transparent or translucent portion of light-permeable layer

210b: MDF, plastic or metal portion of light-permeable layer

211: upper surface of light-permeable layer

212: lower surface of light-permeable layer

213: lateral face or peripheral surface

220/220a/220b/220c/220d: representation of an image, graphical object, visual pattern

230: first additional layer

230a: intermediate layer

240: second additional layer

245: third additional layer

250: holding portion

250a: holding portion body

250b: holding portion cover

251a/251b: fixing means

260: light-emitting or illumination means

270: power source

280: controller means

285: circuit housing

290: hinge

310: cavity, groove

410: light permeable strip

Claims

A toilet lid (200) capable of being connected to a toilet seat (110) , wherein the toilet lid

comprises:

a light-permeable layer (210) having an upper surface (211) and a lower surface (212) with a shape and size associated with the toilet lid, wherein at least a portion of the light-permeable layer is at least partially permeable to light;

a light emitting means (260) ;

wherein the light emitting means (260) is positioned such that it is capable of emitting light in the direction substantially parallel to the upper surface (211) and the lower surface (212) of the light-permeable layer (210) and illuminating at least part of the light-permeable layer (210) .
The toilet lid (200) of claim 1 wherein the light-permeable layer (210) is at least partially transparent and/or translucent.
The toilet lid (200) of any of the above claims, wherein the light-permeable layer (210) is made from at least one of acrylic, plastic (polyresin) or glass.
The toilet lid (200) of any of the above claims, wherein the light-permeable layer (210) is colored or tinted.
The toilet lid (200) of any of the above claims, wherein at least part of an exterior lateral face or peripheral surfaces of the light-permeable layer (210) is adapted to diffusely scatter light of the light emitting means (260) .
The toilet lid (200) of any of the above claims, wherein a first representation of an image, graphical object or visual pattern (220, 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d) , or a first plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern is provided on at least one of the upper surface (211) of the light-permeable layer, the lower surface (212) of the light-permeable layer or within the light-permeable layer by means of laser engraving.
The toilet lid (200) of any of the above claims, wherein a second representation of an image, graphical object or visual pattern (220, 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d) , or a second plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern is provided at least on one of the upper surface (211) or the lower surface (212) of the light-permeable layer or within the light-permeable layer by means of embedding a plurality of light-scattering particles or particulates.
The toilet lid (200) of any of the above claims, wherein a third representation of an image, graphical object or visual pattern (220, 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d) or a third plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern is provided on at least one of the upper surface (211) or the lower surface (212) of the light-permeable layer by means of mechanical, chemical, or physical etching, carving or engraving methods.
The toilet lid (200) of any of claims 6 to 8, wherein the first, second and/or third representation or the first, second and/or third plurality of representations comprise a plurality of light-scattering microstructures.
The toilet lid (200) of the above claims, wherein a fourth representation of an image, graphical object or visual pattern (220, 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d) or a fourth plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern is provided on at least one of the upper surface (211) or the lower surface (212) of the light-permeable layer by means of UV transfer, heat transfer, wet transfer, silkscreen, or flatbed printing methods.
The toilet lid of any of claims 6 to 9, wherein the first, second, and/or third representation or the first, second and/or third plurality of representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern are three-dimensional.
The toilet lid (200) of any of the above claims, wherein at least a part of the light-permeable layer (210) comprises medium density fiberboard (MDF) or wood-based material, plastic and/or metal.
The toilet lid of any of the above claims, wherein the light emitting means (260) is powered by a power source (270) , and wherein the power source is a battery or an energy storage device powered by a photovoltaic cell.
The toilet lid of any of the above claims, wherein the toilet lid further comprises a controller means (280) , wherein the light emitting means (260) is capable of being controlled by the controller means (280) .
The toilet lid of claim 14, wherein the controller means (280) is configured to switch the light emitting means (260) .
The toilet lid of claim 15, wherein an input to the controller means (280) is provided by a switching means, wherein the switching means is at least one of a timer switch, a motion sensor, a light sensitive switch, or a button switch.
The toilet lid of any of the above claims, wherein the light emitting means (260) is a LED light source.
The toilet lid of claim 17, wherein the LED light source comprises at least one LED light.
The toilet lid of claim 18 wherein a plurality of LED lights is provided as a light strip, wherein each of the LED lights are of a same or a different color.
The toilet lid of any of the above claims, wherein the light emitting means is provided along at least a portion of a peripheral surface or lateral face of the light-permeable layer or embedded within a cavity, groove, or hollow recess provided at the light-permeable layer (210) .
The toilet lid of any of the above claims, wherein the toilet lid is provided with a mechanical bearing, wherein the mechanical bearing comprises a first and a second movable portion fixed against each other in rotatable or pivotable manner.
The toilet lid of claim 21, wherein the mechanical bearing is a hinge.
The toilet lid of claim 16, wherein the toilet lid further comprises a holding portion (250) , wherein the holding portion (250) is capable of at least partially accommodating one or more of the controller means (280) , the light emitting means (260) , and the switching means.
The toilet lid of claim 23, wherein the holding portion comprises a compartment (285) that is partially or fully resistant to water.
The toilet lid (200) of any of the above claims, wherein the toilet lid further comprises a first layer (230) disposed at least partially on the upper surface of the light-permeable layer.
The toilet lid of claim 25, wherein the first layer (230) is at least partially opaque, and wherein the first layer comprises at least one of metal, MDF or plastic.
The toilet lid of claim 25, wherein at least a portion of the first layer (230) is at least partially coloured, tinted or has a matte or glossy effect, or a laminated surface.
The toilet lid of claim 25, wherein at least a portion of the first layer (230) comprises a light diffusion sheet.
The toilet lid of claim 25, wherein at least a portion of the first layer (230) is a printed decorative layer comprising one or more representations of an image, graphical object or visual pattern (220, 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d) .
The toilet lid of claim 29, wherein at least a portion of the first layer (230) comprises a lenticular image.
The toilet lid of claim 25, wherein the first layer (230) comprises a thin layer comprising stone or a stone-like material.
The toilet lid of any of claims 29 to 31, wherein the toilet lid further comprises an additional intermediate layer (230a) , disposed between the first layer (230) and the light permeable layer (210) , that is a light diffusing sheet.
The toilet lid of any of claims 25 to 32, wherein the first layer is an exterior layer on the upper surface of the toilet lid.
The toilet lid of any of the above claims, wherein the toilet lid further comprises a second layer (240) disposed on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer.
The toilet lid of claim 34, wherein the second layer (240) is a printed layer comprising one or more representations of an image, graphical object, visual pattern (220, 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220c) or colour, rendering the printed layer at least partially opaque.
The toilet lid of claim 34, wherein the second layer (240) comprises a glossy or mirrored layer that at least partially reflects light.
The toilet lid of claim 34, wherein the one or more representations of an image, graphical object, visual pattern (220, 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220c) or colour is arranged such that the one or more representations of an image, graphical object, visual pattern (220, 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220c) or colour are provided on an upper, lower or both surfaces of the second layer.
The toilet lid of claim 36, wherein the mirrored or glossy layer is arranged such that the light is partially reflected on the upper, lower, or both surfaces of the mirrored or glossy layer.
The toilet lid of any of claims 34 to 38, wherein the second layer (240) is an exterior layer on the lower surface of the toilet lid.
The toilet lid of any of claims 34 to 38, wherein, the second layer (240) is at least partially opaque, and wherein the second layer (240) comprises MDF or a wood-based material, forming an exterior layer.
The toilet lid of any of claims 34 to 38, wherein the second layer (240) is at least partially opaque, and wherein the second layer (240) comprises at least one of metal or plastic, forming an exterior layer.
The toilet lid of any of claims 34 to 39, wherein the toilet lid further comprises a third layer (245) wherein the third layer (245) is arranged below the second layer (240) .
The toilet lid of claim 42, wherein the third layer (245) comprises at least one of acrylic, plastic, polyresin or glass, rendering the third layer (245) at least partially transparent or translucent, wherein the third layer (245) is arranged below the second layer (240) , forming an exterior layer.
The toilet lid of claim 42, wherein the third layer (245) is at least partially opaque, and wherein the third layer (245) comprises MDF or a wood-based material, forming an exterior layer.
The toilet lid of claim 42, wherein, the third layer (245) is at least partially opaque, and wherein the third layer (245) comprises at least one of metal or plastic, forming an exterior layer.
The toilet lid of any of claims 34 to 45, when dependent on claim 23, wherein at least one of the power source (270) , controller means (280) or switching means is accommodated separately from the holding portion in one or more hollows or cavities provided in any of the second layer (240) and/or the third layer (245) .
The toilet lid of claim 46, wherein the holding portion is magnetically attached to the toilet lid.
The toilet lid of claim 46, wherein the holding portion comprises a body and a cover, wherein the body and cover can be joined to form a housing.
The toilet lid of claim 48, wherein the body of the holding portion and at least one of the first or second movable portion of the mechanical bearing or hinge are integrally formed of a material comprising plastic and/or metal.
The toilet lid of claim 49, wherein the body of the holding portion, at least one of the first or second movable portion of the mechanical bearing or hinge and the lower exterior layer are integrally formed of a material comprising plastic and/or metal.
A toilet lid assembly, comprising:

a toilet lid as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 50; and

a toilet seat connected to the said toilet lid.
A toilet seat connectable to a toilet lid, the toilet seat comprising:

a light-permeable layer having an upper surface and a lower surface with a shape and size associated with the toilet seat, wherein at least a portion of the light-permeable layer is at least partially permeable to light;

a light emitting means;

wherein the light emitting means is positioned such that it is capable of emitting light in the direction substantially parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface of the light-permeable layer and illuminating at least part of the light-permeable layer.
A toilet lid (200) capable of being connected to a toilet seat (110) , wherein the toilet lid

comprises:

a light-permeable layer (210) having an upper surface (211) and a lower surface (212) , wherein the light-permeable layer is a light-permeable strip having a surface smaller than a surface of the toilet lid (220) , wherein at least a portion of the light-permeable strip is at least partially permeable to light;

a light emitting means (260) ;

wherein the light emitting means (260) is positioned such that it is capable of emitting light in the direction substantially parallel to the upper surface (211) and the lower surface (212) of the light-permeable strip (210) and illuminating at least part of the light-permeable layer (210) .
The toilet lid of claim 53, wherein the toilet lid further comprises a second layer (240) disposed on the lower surface of the light-permeable layer.
The toilet lid of claim 54, wherein the second layer (240) is a printed layer comprising one or more representations of an image, graphical object, visual pattern (220, 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220c) or colour, rendering the printed layer at least partially opaque.
The toilet lid of claim 55, wherein the second layer (240) comprises a glossy or mirrored layer that at least partially reflects light.
The toilet lid of any of claims 55 or 56, wherein the toilet lid further comprises a third layer (245) wherein the third layer (245) is arranged below the second layer (240) , forming an exterior layer.
The toilet lid of claim 57, wherein, the third layer (245) is at least partially opaque, and wherein the third layer (245) comprises MDF or a wood-based material, forming an exterior layer.
The toilet lid of any of claims 53 to 58, wherein the toilet lid further comprises a holding portion (250) , wherein the holding portion (250) is capable of at least partially accommodating a controller means (280) , the light emitting means (260) , and a switching means.