Abstract: In certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a refrigerator is described. The refrigerator includes an inner liner defining a storage compartment. The refrigerator further includes an outer wall forming a vacuum insulation panel. The outer wall defines a hermetically sealed vacuum compartment wall. The compartment includes filler insulating material and is evacuated of atmospheric gases. The compartment is located between the outer wall and the inner liner.

Abstract: An outer shell for a refrigerator a cabinet formed from a plurality of vertically arranged panels each having opposed vertical edges, a top edge and a bottom edge. A plurality of dovetail-like, linear joints interlock the vertical edges of the vertically arranged panels without requiring additional fasteners or welding. A top panel is interconnected with the top edges of the vertically arranged panels and a bottom panel is interconnected with the bottom edges of the vertically arranged panels. Each of the linear joints comprise a channel having a fan shaped cross-section provided along one edge of a panel and a connecting flange formed along the edge of a second adjacent panel wherein the connecting flange is received into the channel such that the first and second panels are interconnected. The outer shell is easily assembled by joining adjacent panels via the interlocking joints. Moreover, the joints provide strength to the outer shell and are well suited for use in insulation foaming.