Patent Publication Number: US-2023152032-A1

Title: Connector assembly for vacuum insulated structures

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The present disclosure generally relates to a connector assembly, and more specifically, to a connector assembly for vacuum insulated structures. 
     SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a fill system for a vacuum insulated structure includes a door having a structural wrapper that defines an insulating cavity. The structural wrapper defines a fill port that is in fluid communication with the insulating cavity for receiving insulation materials therein. The door defines at least one projection extending from proximate to the fill port. A connector assembly is selectively coupled to the door for coupling the door with a materials dispenser. The connector assembly includes a base plate configured to be disposed adjacent to the structural wrapper. The base plate defines at least one aperture configured to receive the at least one projection. A fill tube extends from the base plate and is configured to align with the fill port. A toggle magnet is coupled to the base plate. The toggle magnet is operable between an activated state and a deactivated state. The toggle magnet is configured to magnetically engage the door when in the activated state. 
     According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an appliance door includes a structural wrapper that defines an insulating cavity. The structural wrapper defines a fill port for receiving insulation material and the fill port is in fluid communication with the insulating cavity. A connector assembly is configured to selectively couple the structural wrapper with a materials dispenser. The connector assembly includes a base plate configured to be disposed adjacent to an outer surface of the structural wrapper. A toggle magnet is coupled to the base plate. The toggle magnet is configured to selectively couple the connector assembly to the structural wrapper when activated, A fill tube extends from the base plate and is configured to extend away from the structural wrapper when the connector assembly is coupled to the structural wrapper. The fill tube is configured to engage the materials dispenser. 
     According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a connector assembly includes a base plate that defines a fill opening and an aperture. A fill tube is coupled to a first side of the base plate. The fill tube is aligned with the fill opening. A radial flange is coupled to a second side of the base plate. The radial flange extends around the fill opening. A toggle magnet is coupled to the first side of the base plate proximate to the aperture. The toggle magnet is operable between an activated state and a deactivated state. 
     These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following specification, claims, and appended drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In the drawings: 
         FIG.  1    is a front perspective view of a refrigerator having an insulated cabinet and insulated doors, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  2    is a cross-sectional front perspective view of a refrigerator having an insulated cabinet and insulated doors, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  3    is a partial side perspective view of a door coupled with a materials dispenser via a connector assembly, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  4    is a side perspective view of a connector assembly coupled to a door, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  5    is a front elevation view of a connector assembly coupled to a door, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  6    is a side perspective view of a connector assembly coupled to a door, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  7    is a partial side perspective exploded view of a door defining a fill port and a connector assembly, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  8    is a front perspective view of a connector assembly, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  9    is a side elevation view of a connector assembly, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  10    is a rear perspective view of a connector assembly, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  11    is a rear perspective view of a connector assembly with a gasket, according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  12    is a partial side perspective exploded view of a door defining a fill port and a connector assembly, according to the present disclosure; and 
         FIG.  13    is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a connector assembly coupled to a door, according to the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles described herein. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The present illustrated embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to a connector assembly for vacuum insulated structures. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Further, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements. 
     For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the disclosure as oriented in  FIG.  1   . Unless stated otherwise, the term “front” shall refer to the surface of the element closer to an intended viewer, and the term “rear” shall refer to the surface of the element further from the intended viewer. However, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. 
     The terms “including,” “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element proceeded by “comprises a . . . ” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  143   , reference numeral  10  generally designates a fill system for a vacuum insulated structure  12  that includes a door  14  having a structural wrapper  16  defining an insulating cavity  18 . The structural wrapper  16  defines a fill port  20  in fluid communication with the insulating cavity  18  for receiving insulation materials  22  therein. The door  14  defines at least one projection  24  extending from proximate to the fill port  20 . A connector assembly  26  is selectively coupled to the door  14  for coupling the door  14  with a materials dispenser  28 . The connector assembly  26  includes a base plate  30  configured to abut the structural wrapper  16 . The base plate  30  defines at least one aperture  32  configured to receive the at least one projection  24 . The connector assembly  26  also includes a fill tube  34  that extends from the base plate  30  and is configured to align with the fill port  20  and a toggle magnet  36  coupled to the base plate  30 . The toggle magnet  36  is operable between an activated state and a deactivated state. The toggle magnet  36  is configured to magnetically engage the door  14  when in the activated state. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  1  and  2   , the vacuum insulated structure  12  is generally illustrated as the door  14  for an appliance  50 , such as the illustrated refrigerating appliance  50 ; however, it is contemplated that the door  14  disclosed herein may be used with a variety of appliances  50 , structures, or insulation purposes other than with the appliance  50 . Moreover, the illustrated refrigerating appliance  50  is a bottom mount refrigerator having the door  14  and a second door  52 , which can have a substantially similar configuration as the door  14  as discussed further herein. The doors  14  may be rotationally and/or laterally operable panels for doors  14  and drawers. In non-limiting examples, the refrigerating appliance  50  can be a bottom mount refrigerator, a bottom mount French-door refrigerator, a top mount refrigerator, a side-by-side refrigerator, a four-door French-door refrigerator, and/or a five-door French door refrigerator, each of which can have one or more doors  14 . 
     As illustrated in  FIGS.  1  and  2   , the appliance  50  may include multiple vacuum insulated structures  12 . One of the vacuum insulated structures  12  is the door  14 , which includes the structural wrapper  16  defining the insulating cavity  18  therebetween. The structural wrapper  16  may include an outer wrapper  54  coupled with an inner liner  56 , which define the insulating cavity  18  therebetween. A cabinet  58  of the appliance  50  is also an example of the vacuum insulated structures  12 . The cabinet  58  includes a cabinet wrapper  62  and a cabinet liner  64  with an insulation cavity  66  defined therebetween. 
     Each of the insulating cavity  18  of the door  14  and the insulation cavity  66  of the cabinet  58  typically includes one or more insulation materials  22  disposed therein. It is generally contemplated that the insulation materials  22  may be glass-type materials, carbon-based powders, silicon oxide-based materials, silica-based materials, and other standard insulation materials  22 . Additionally, the insulation materials  22  may be free-flowing materials that can be poured, blown, compacted, or otherwise disposed within the insulating cavity  18  and insulation cavity  66 . This free-flowing material can be in the form of various silica-based materials, such as fumed silica, precipitated silica, nano-sized and/or micro-sized aerogel powder, rice husk ash powder, perlite, glass spheres, hollow glass spheres, cenospheres, diatomaceous earth, combinations thereof, and any other similar insulating particulate or powdered material. The insulation materials  22  substantially fill the insulating cavity  18  forming a substantially continuous layer between the outer wrapper  54  and the inner liner  56 . Similarly, the insulation materials  22  substantially fill the insulation cavity  66  forming a substantially continuous layer between the cabinet wrapper  62  and the cabinet liner  64 . 
     In the depicted example of  FIGS.  1  and  2   , the structural wrapper  16  of the door  14  and the cabinet  58  of the appliance  50  may be made from a material at least partially resistant to bending, deformation, or otherwise being formed in response to an inward compressive force. These materials for the structural wrapper  16  and the cabinet  58  include, but are not limited to, metals, polymers, metal alloys, other similar substantially rigid materials that can be used for vacuum insulated structures  12 , or combinations thereof. 
     Referring still to  FIGS.  1  and  2   , an at least partial vacuum is defined within the insulating cavity  18  and the insulation cavity  66 . The at least partial vacuum defines a pressure differential  82  between an exterior  84  of the appliance  50  and the insulating cavity  18  within the door  14 , as well as between the exterior  84  of the appliance  50  and the insulation cavity  66  within the cabinet  58 . The pressure differential  82  serves to define the inward compressive force that is exerted on both the outer wrapper  54  and the inner liner  56  and tends to bias the outer wrapper  54  and the inner liner  56  toward the insulating cavity  18 . The pressure differential  82  also serves to define the inward compressive force that is exerted on the cabinet wrapper  62  and the cabinet liner  64  and tends to bias each toward the insulation cavity  66 . 
     With reference now to  FIG.  3   , the structural wrapper  16  of the door  14  defines an evacuation port  90 , which is an opening into the insulating cavity  18 . The at least partial vacuum is typically defined by evacuation of fluid from the insulating cavity  18  through the evacuation port  90  with an evacuation port assembly. The evacuation port assembly typically includes a servicing tube. The evacuation port assembly is in fluid communication with the insulating cavity  18  via the evacuation port  90  to expel gas from the insulating cavity  18  to form the vacuum insulation. 
     The door  14  is illustrated in connection with the materials dispenser  28  via the connector assembly  26 . The materials dispenser  28  stores and/or transfers the insulation materials  22  to the insulating cavity  18  of the door  14 . Generally, the materials dispenser  28  transfers powdered insulation materials  22 , such as silica or fumed silica, to the insulating cavity  18  through the fill port  20 . The connector assembly  26  guides the insulation materials  22  from the materials dispenser  28 , through the fill port  20 , and into the insulating cavity  18 . The materials dispenser  28  may be any practicable system, assembly, or unit that stores and/or delivers the insulation materials  22  to various insulated structures and vacuum insulated structures  12 . 
     Though described herein as the door  14 , the connector assembly  26  may be utilized with any vacuum insulated structure  12 , such as the cabinet  58 , the door  14 , other panels, etc. Further, the present disclosure is not limited to refrigerators or refrigerated appliances  50 . The appliance  50  may be, for example, freezers, coolers, ovens, dishwashers, laundry appliances, water heaters, and other similar appliances  50  and fixtures within household and commercial settings. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  4 - 7   , the connector assembly  26  is configured to selectively couple to the door  14 . The connector assembly  26  may be coupled with the door  14  during a fill process when the insulation materials  22  are to be directed into the insulating cavity  18  and removed from the door  14  when the fill process is paused or complete. 
     As best illustrated in  FIG.  3   , the connector assembly  26  is configured to connect the door  14  with the materials dispenser  28 . The materials dispenser  28  is configured to engage a distal end  72  of the fill tube  34 . The connector assembly  26  provides an interface between the materials dispenser  28  and the door  14  to guide the insulation materials  22  into the insulating cavity  18 . The connector assembly  26  may be advantageous for providing a more efficient fill process, as well as for reducing or minimizing spilled insulation materials  22 . 
     In the illustrated configuration, the door  14  defines the fill port  20  in a corner  96  thereof. The fill port  20  is defined by the structural wrapper  16  and provides fluid communication with the insulating cavity  18 . The evacuation port  90 , which is defined on a same side of the structural wrapper  16 , also provides fluid communication with the insulating cavity  18 . Though illustrated on the same side of the structural wrapper  16 , either the fill port  20  or the evacuation port  90  may be on an opposing side of the structural wrapper  16  or in another practicable location on the door  14 . 
     With reference still to  FIG.  4 - 7   , the structural wrapper  16  of the door  14  defines support ribs  106 , which generally extend from an outer surface  108  of the structural wrapper  16 . The support ribs  106  may be embossed or otherwise defined by the structural wrapper  16 . In the illustrated configuration, the support ribs  106  include a border rib  110 , which extends generally along the border of the outer surface  108  of the structural wrapper  16 , Further, the door  14  includes first cross ribs  112  and second cross ribs  114  forming a grid pattern within the border rib  110 . Accordingly, the door  14  does not define the cross ribs  112 ,  114  outside of the border rib  110 . The support ribs  106  may be advantageous for increasing strength and rigidity of the structural wrapper  16 . 
     The border rib  110  generally defines an oblong, generally rounded shape. The rounded shape provides additional space outside the border rib  110  proximate to the corner  96 . This additional space is advantageous for the connector assembly  26  to couple to the door  14  without substantial interference from the support ribs  106 . 
     Referring still to  FIGS.  5 - 7   , the connector assembly  26  is configured to selectively couple to the door  14  for the fill process. In this way, the connector assembly  26  is coupled to the door  14  prior to the fill process starting and removed from the door  14  when the fill process is paused or finished. The connector assembly  26  includes the base plate  30 . The base plate  30  has a generally rectangular structure with an angled side edge  120 . The angled side edge  120  is configured to extend along the border rib  110  when the connector assembly  26  is coupled to the door  14 . The base plate  30  having the angled side edge  120  generally allows the base plate  30  to fit within the space outside the border rib  110  on the corner  96  of the door  14 . A first edge  122 , illustrated as a top edge, of the base plate  30  has a width greater than a width of an opposing second edge  124 , illustrated as a bottom edge, which is shortened by the angled side edge  120 . 
     The first edge  122  of the base plate  30  has a thickness greater than the second edge  124 . Generally, the corner  96  of the door  14  proximate the fill port  20  defines a recessed region  128  with a recessed surface  130  therein. The recessed surface  130  is set back from the remainder of the outer surface  108  of the structural wrapper  16 . The thickened first edge  122  extends into the recessed region  128  to be disposed adjacent to or abutting the recessed surface  130 . With the first edge  122  disposed within the recessed region  128 , an interior surface  132  of the base plate  30  may be disposed adjacent to or in an abutting relationship with the outer surface  108  of the structural wrapper  16 . Further, the base plate  30  extends from the recessed region  128  and over the fill port  20 . 
     As best illustrated in  FIG.  7   , the door  14  includes two projections  140 ,  142 , which may collectively be referred to as the projections  24 , extending from the recessed surface  130 . The projections  140 ,  142  may be disposed entirely within the recessed region  128 , or alternatively, extend out of the recessed region  128  and past the outer surface  108  of the structural wrapper  16  that surrounds the recessed region  128 . The projections  140 ,  142  are generally studs coupled with the door  14 . In such configurations, the studs are coupled to the structural wrapper  16  and extend therefrom. 
     The base plate  30  of the connector assembly  26  defines two recessed regions  144 ,  146  along with the first edge  122  thereof. The first edge  122  may have an increased thickness compared to the second edge  124  to define the recessed regions  144 ,  146 . Receiving apertures  148 ,  150 , which may be collectively referred to as the apertures  32 , are defined in the thickened first edge  122 . For example, one receiving aperture  148  is defined within the recessed region  144  and the other receiving aperture  150  is defined within recessed region  146 . 
     The projections  140 ,  142  are generally horizontally aligned with one another. When the connector assembly  26  is coupled to the door  14 , the projections  140 ,  142  are configured to extend through the respective receiving aperture  148 ,  150 . The engagement between the base plate  30  and the projections  140 ,  142  may assist in aligning the connector assembly  26  with the door  14 . Additionally, nuts  152 ,  154 , or similar features, may be coupled to the projections  140 ,  142  within the recessed regions  144 ,  146  to couple and retain the connector assembly  26  to the door  14  during the fill process. The nuts  152 ,  154  are disposed on an opposing side of the base plate  30  relative to the recessed surface  130 . It is contemplated that the door  14  may not include the projections  140 ,  142 . In such examples, the receiving apertures  148 ,  150  may remain open when the connector assembly  26  is coupled to the door  14 . Alternatively, various configurations of the connector assembly  26  may not define the receiving apertures  148 ,  150 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  8 - 10   , the connector assembly  26  includes a bracket  160 . The bracket  160  is coupled to the interior surface  132  of the base plate  30  along the first edge  122 . The bracket  160  defines corresponding apertures  162 ,  164 , which align with the apertures  148 ,  150  defined by the base plate  30 . In this way, the projections  140 ,  140  ( FIG.  7   ) extend through the bracket  160  and the base plate  30  when engaging the connector assembly  26 . 
     The bracket  160  is generally L-shaped. The bracket  160  includes a coupling portion  166  that extends along the interior surface  132  of the first edge  122  and an extension portion  168  that extends generally perpendicular to the coupling portion  166 . The bracket  160  may be advantageous for aligning the connector assembly  26  with the door  14 , for providing additional strength to the engagement between the projections  140 ,  142  and the base plate  30 , or a combination thereof. 
     The connector assembly  26  includes the fill tube  34  coupled to the base plate  30 . Generally, each of the base plate  30  and the fill tube  34  are constructed of metal materials, such as steel. In such examples, a proximal end  178  of the fill tube  34  is welded or otherwise attached to the base plate  30 . 
     With reference still to  FIGS.  8 - 10   , the base plate  30  defines a fill opening  180 , and the fill tube  34  is aligned with the fill opening  180 . The proximal end  178  of the fill tube  34  extends around the fill opening  180 . The fill tube  34  is coupled to an outer surface  182  of the base plate  30  and extends away from the door  14  when the connector assembly  26  is coupled to the door  14  ( FIG.  1   ). The fill tube  34  defines an inner channel  184 , which is in fluid communication with the fill opening  180  of the base plate  30 , thereby forming a path for the insulation materials  22  ( FIG.  2   ) through the fill tube  34 , through the base plate  30 , and into the insulating cavity  18  ( FIG.  1   ). 
     In the illustrated configuration, the fill tube  34  extends at an acute angle α relative to the outer surface  182  of the base plate  30 . Instead of extending perpendicularly relative to the outer surface  182 , the fill tube  34  extends toward the first edge  122  of the base plate  30  (e.g., away from the toggle magnet  36 ). Additionally, the fill tube  34  may extend at a side angle β relative to a central axis of the base plate  30 . The fill tube  34  extends at the side angle β toward a side edge  186  of the base plate  30 , which is an opposite side relative to the angled side edge  120 . The side angle β is generally an acute angle defined between the fill tube  34  and the outer surface  182  of the base plate  30 . The angles α, β of the fill tube  34  may be advantageous for connecting the fill tube  34  to the materials dispenser  28  ( FIG.  3   ). 
     The connector assembly  26  includes a locating feature  190  coupled to and extending from the interior surface  132  of the base plate  30 . In the illustrated configuration, the locating feature  190  is configured as a radial flange, which extends around the fill opening  180 . The locating feature  190  is generally aligned with the proximal end  178  of the fill tube  34 . The locating feature  190  may form a continuation of the fill tube  34  and the inner channel  184  defined by the fill tube  34 . The locating feature  190  may be advantageous for aligning the connector assembly  26  with the fill port  20  ( FIG.  7   ), as well as guiding the fill materials  22  into the insulating cavity  18  ( FIG.  2   ). The locating feature  190  may provide a more efficient interface between the connector assembly  26  and the door  14  by removing openings along a fill path between the connector assembly  26  and the door  14  that may cause the insulation materials  22  to spill ( FIG.  1   ). 
     Referring still to  FIGS.  8 - 10   , the connector assembly  26  also includes the toggle magnet  36  coupled to the base plate  30 , The toggle magnet  36  may also be referred to as an on/off magnet. The toggle magnet  36  extends into or through an aperture  194  defined in the base plate  30 . Generally, the aperture  194  is defined proximate to the second edge  124  of the base plate  30 . The toggle magnet  36  may be spaced from the door  14  when deactivated and drawn closer to the door  14  when activated due to the magnetic engagement therebetween. In such examples, the toggle magnet  36  may be flush or coplanar with the interior surface  132  of the base plate  30 . Alternatively, the toggle magnet  36  may extend beyond the interior surface  132  (e.g., through the aperture  194  of the base plate  30 ) to abut the door  14 . The toggle magnet  36  may be adjustable to adjust the position of the toggle magnet  36  relative to the base plate  30  and, consequently, relative to the door  14 . 
     The toggle magnet  36  includes a magnet assembly  200 , a mounting flange  202 , and a switch  204 . The magnet assembly  200  generally includes one or more magnets within a steel case. The steel case concentrates and focuses a magnetic field generated by the one or more magnets of the magnet assembly  200 . 
     The magnet assembly  200  is coupled with the mounting flange  202 . The mounting flange  202  is utilized for coupling the toggle magnet  36  with the base plate  30 . Coupling members  206  generally extend through the mounting flange  202  and engage the base plate  30 , thereby coupling the toggle magnet  36  to the base plate  30 . Generally, the toggle magnet  36  includes two coupling members  206  with one coupling member  206  disposed on each side of the magnet assembly  200  and the aperture  194  of the base plate  30 . The coupling members  206  may be screws, bolts, rivets, or other features for coupling the toggle magnet  36  to the base plate  30 . 
     The toggle magnet  36  also includes the switch  204 , which is configured to adjust the toggle magnet  36  between the activated state and the deactivated state. When in the activated state, the magnetic field of the magnet assembly  200  is focused outwardly, which causes the toggle magnet  36  to magnetically engage the structural wrapper  16  of the door  14 . When in the deactivated state, the magnetic field is redirected internally within the magnet assembly  200 , such that the toggle magnet  36  does not magnetically engage the structural wrapper  16  or any other material. The switch  204  is generally configured to rotate approximately 180°, which may cause changes in the magnet assembly  200  to adjust how the magnetic field is concentrated and directed. When the switch  204  is in a first position, the toggle magnet  36  may be activated, and when the switch  204  is in a second position the toggle magnet  36  may be deactivated. 
     Referring still to  FIGS.  8 - 10   , the activation of the toggle magnet  36  may be advantageous for coupling the connector assembly  26  to the door  14 . In certain aspects, the toggle magnet  36  may couple the connector assembly  26  to the door  14  in combination with the engagement between the projections  140 ,  142  and the base plate  30 , Alternatively, the toggle magnet  36  may couple the connector assembly  26  to the door  14  without the engagement between the projections  140 ,  142  and the base plate  30 . Additionally, once the toggle magnet  36  is deactivated, the absence of the magnetic engagement with the door  14  allows for more convenient disengagement of the connector assembly  26  from the door  14 . 
     In various examples, the connector assembly  26  may include a permanent magnet in lieu of or in combination with the toggle magnet  36 . The permanent magnet may not be switched between the activated and deactivated states, but may consistently generate the magnetic field. In such examples, the permanent magnet may generate a sufficient magnetic force to engage the door  14  and be disengaged from the door  14  by a user. 
     With reference now to  FIG.  11   , the connector assembly  26  may include a gasket  214  coupled to the interior surface  132  of the base plate  30 . The gasket  214  generally extends around the fill opening  180  and the locating feature  190 . The gaskets  214  may be coupled to the locating feature  190 , or alternatively may be spaced from the locating feature  190 . The gaskets  214  may be constructed of an elastically deformable material, such as rubber or foam. The gasket  214  is configured to compress or deform when pressed against the structural wrapper  16 . In examples with the gasket  214 , the gasket  214  may abut the outer surface  108  of the structural wrapper  16 . The gasket  214  may space the interior surface  132  of the base plate  30  from the outer surface  108  of the structural wrapper  16 . It is contemplated that the gasket  214  may sufficiently compress such that the interior surface  132  abuts the outer surface  108  of the structural wrapper  16 . The gasket  214  may be advantageous for providing a seal around the fill opening  180  and the fill port  20  of the door  14 . This seal may prevent or minimize the insulation materials  22  from spilling between the connector assembly  26  and the door  14 . It is also contemplated that the activation of the toggle magnet  36  is configured to draw the connector assembly  26  closer to the door  14 , thereby compressing the gasket  214 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  12  and  13   , the connector assembly  26  is coupled to the corner  96  of the door  14 . The locating feature  190  is utilized to align the fill tube  34  with the fill port  20 . The locating feature  190  generally extends through the fill port  20  and into the insulating cavity  18 . When the locating feature  190  is configured as the radial flange, the locating feature  190  extends entirely around the fill port  20  and abut the structural wrapper  16 . In such configurations, the abutting engagement between the locating feature  190  and the structural wrapper  16  defining the fill port  20  limits or prevents movement of the connector assembly  26  relative to the door  14 . 
     Additionally, the first edge  122  and the bracket  160  are disposed within the recessed region  128  with the bracket  160  adjacent to or abutting the recessed surface  130 . The engagement between the bracket  160  and the recessed surface  130  may also assist in aligning or stabilizing the connector assembly  26 . The extension portion  168  of the bracket  160  generally extends over an edge surface  216  of the structural wrapper  16 . As best illustrated in  FIG.  13   , the extension portion  168  is generally spaced from the edge surface  216 . However, it is contemplated that the extension portion  168  may abut the edge surface  216 , which may assist in aligning and stabilizing the connector assembly  26 . 
     When the connector assembly  26  is coupled to the door  14 , the interior surface  132  of the base plate  30  is disposed adjacent to or in an abutting engagement with the outer surface  108  of the structural wrapper  16 . The gasket  214  may be disposed within the space between the base plate  30  and the door  14 . The gasket  214  may abut and be compressed against the outer surface  108  of the structural wrapper  16 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  1 - 13   , the connector assembly  26  is selectively coupled to the door  14  to assist the fill process for inserting the insulation materials  22  into the insulating cavity  18  from the materials dispenser  28 . The connector assembly  26  is positioned adjacent to the corner  96  of the door  14 . The locating feature  190  is inserted into the fill port  20 . The projections  140 ,  142  extend through the apertures  148 ,  150  defined in the base plate  30 . The nuts  152 ,  154  are coupled to the projections  140 ,  142  within the recessed regions  144 ,  146 . In this configuration, the fill tube  34  extends away from the outer surface  108  of the structural wrapper  16 . The fill tube  34  extends toward the first edge  122  of the base plate  30  and the edge surface  216  of the structural wrapper  16 . In this way, the acute angle α is defined between the fill tube  34  and the outer surface  182  of the base plate  30 . Further, the fill tube  34  also extends at the side angle β relative to the outer surface  182  of the base plate  30 . In this way, the fill tube  34  extends away from the border rib  110  defined by the structural wrapper  16 . 
     The toggle magnet  36  abuts the structural wrapper  16 . The user adjusts the switch  204  to adjust the toggle magnet  36  to the activated state. When in the activated state, the toggle magnet  36  magnetically engages the structural wrapper  16 . The engagement between the projections  140 ,  142  and the nuts  152 ,  154  and the engagement between the toggle magnet  36  and the structural wrapper  16  retains the connector assembly  26  in position against the door  14 . Further with the activation of the toggle magnet  36 , the gasket  214  may be compressed to provide the seal around the fill port  20  of the door  14  and the fill opening  180  of the connector assembly  26 . 
     The connector assembly  26  may then be connected with the materials dispenser  28  for the fill process, where the insulation materials  22  are inserted along the fill path defined by the connector assembly  26  to be inserted into the insulating cavity  18 . Upon completion of the fill process, the connector assembly  26  is disengaged from the materials dispenser  28 , The nuts  152 ,  154  may be disengaged from the projections  140 ,  142 . The user may also adjust the switch  204  to adjust the toggle magnet  36  to the deactivated state. The connector assembly  26  may then be disengaged from the door  14 . 
     As generally illustrated and described herein, the connector assembly  26  is utilized for inserting the insulation materials  22  into the door  14 . The connector assembly  26  may be used with any configuration of the vacuum insulated structure  12  that has insulation materials  22  deposited therein. For example, the vacuum insulated structure  12  may be the door  14 , the cabinet  58 , or other panels and structures. In examples where the connector assembly  26  is utilized with the cabinet  58 , at least one of the cabinet wrapper  62  and the cabinet liner  64  defines the fill port  20  for depositing the insulation materials  22  within the insulation cavity  66 . The connector assembly  26  may be selectively coupled to any practicable configuration of the vacuum insulated structure  12  to provide an interface between the vacuum insulated structure  12  and the materials dispenser  28 . 
     Use of the present device may provide for a variety of advantages. For example, the connector assembly  26  may be coupled to the vacuum insulated structure  12 , such as the door  14 , for the fill process and may be removed from the vacuum insulated structure  12  when the fill process is complete. In this way, a final product of the vacuum insulated structure  12  may not include the connector assembly  26 . Further, the connector assembly  26  may guide the insulation materials  22  into the insulating cavity  18  or the insulation cavity  66 . Additionally, the connector assembly  26  provides an interface between the materials dispenser  28  and vacuum insulated structure  12 . Also, the connector assembly  26  may be coupled to the vacuum insulated structure  12  via the toggle magnet  36 , the projections  140 ,  142 , or a combination thereof. Moreover, the gasket  214  may provide a seal that extends around the fill port  20 . Additionally, the locating feature  190  may extend through the fill port  20 , which assists with aligning the connector assembly  26  with the vacuum insulated structure  12 , as well as guiding the insulation materials  22  during the fill process. Additional benefits or advantages may be realized and/or achieved. 
     The device disclosed herein is further summarized in the following paragraphs and is further characterized by combinations of any and all of the various aspects described therein. 
     According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a fill system for a vacuum insulated structure includes a door having a structural wrapper that defines an insulating cavity. The structural wrapper defines a fill port that is in fluid communication with the insulating cavity for receiving insulation materials therein. The door defines at least one projection extending from proximate to the fill port. A connector assembly is selectively coupled to the door for coupling the door with a materials dispenser. The connector assembly includes a base plate configured to be disposed adjacent to the structural wrapper. The base plate defines at least one aperture configured to receive the at least one projection. A fill tube extends from the base plate and is configured to align with the fill port. A toggle magnet is coupled to the base plate. The toggle magnet is operable between an activated state and a deactivated state. The toggle magnet is configured to magnetically engage the door when in the activated state. 
     According to another aspect, a connector assembly includes a locating feature that extends from an interior surface of the base plate. The locating feature is configured to extend through a fill port. 
     According to another aspect, a locating feature aligns with a fill tube to form an extension of the fill tube. 
     According to another aspect, a fill tube extends away from a toggle magnet at an acute angle relative to an outer surface of a base plate. 
     According to another aspect, a door defines an evacuation port for drawing fluid from the insulating cavity of the door to provide a vacuum insulation. 
     According to another aspect, a door defines a recessed region and at least one projection extends from the recessed region. 
     According to another aspect, a base plate has a first edge having a greater thickness compared to a second opposing edge of the base plate. The first edge extends into a recessed region. 
     According to another aspect, at least one projection includes two horizontally aligned projections and at least one aperture defines two apertures that are each configured to receive one of the two horizontally aligned projections. 
     According to another aspect an appliance door includes a structural wrapper that defines an insulating cavity. The structural wrapper defines a fill port for receiving insulation material and the fill port is in fluid communication with the insulating cavity. A connector assembly is configured to selectively couple the structural wrapper with a materials dispenser. The connector assembly includes a base plate configured to be disposed adjacent to an outer surface of the structural wrapper. A toggle magnet is coupled to the base plate. The toggle magnet is configured to selectively couple the connector assembly to the structural wrapper when activated. A fill tube extends from the base plate and is configured to extend away from the structural wrapper when the connector assembly is coupled to the structural wrapper. The fill tube is configured to engage the materials dispenser. 
     According to another aspect, a base plate defines an aperture and a toggle magnet extends into the aperture to engage a structural wrapper. 
     According to another aspect, a base plate defines a receiving aperture configured to receive a stud extending from a structural wrapper. 
     According to another aspect, a connector assembly includes a radial flange extending from an interior surface thereof that aligns with a proximal end of a fill tube. 
     According to another aspect, a radial flange is configured to extend through a fill port when a connector assembly is coupled to a structural wrapper. 
     According to another aspect, a base plate defines a fill opening aligned with a fill tube. A connector assembly includes a gasket coupled to an interior surface of the base plate that extends around the fill opening and is configured to engage a structural wrapper. 
     According to another aspect, a toggle magnet includes a switch to adjust the toggle magnet between an activated state and a deactivated state. The toggle magnet is configured to magnetically engage a structural wrapper when in the activated state. 
     According to yet another aspect, a connector assembly includes a base plate that defines a fill opening and an aperture. A fill tube is coupled to a first side of the base plate. The fill tube is aligned with the fill opening. A radial flange is coupled to a second side of the base plate. The radial flange extends around the fill opening. A toggle magnet is coupled to the first side of the base plate proximate to the aperture. The toggle magnet is operable between an activated state and a deactivated state. 
     According to another aspect, a gasket is coupled to a second side of a base plate and configured to extend around a fill opening. 
     According to another aspect a base plate defines a recessed region. A receiving aperture is defined within the recessed region. 
     According to another aspect, an L-shaped bracket is coupled to a second side of a base plate along a first edge thereof. The first edge has an increased thickness compared to a second opposing edge of the base plate. 
     According to another aspect, a fill tube extends at an acute angle from a base plate. 
     It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described disclosure and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein. 
     For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” (in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated. 
     It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the disclosure as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes, and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations. 
     It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.