Semiconductor Package Clip Mounting for Uniform Heatsink Pressure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic modules with semiconductor packages face challenges in achieving optimal heat dissipation due to inhomogeneous mounting pressure distribution, which affects thermal resistance between the semiconductor die and the heatsink.

Innovation Solution

The electronic module incorporates a semiconductor package with an integrated clip and fastening element, such as a screw, that connects the package to an external heatsink, ensuring a consistent and enhanced mounting pressure for improved heat dissipation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If screws or clips are used to mount the semiconductor package to the heatsink, then the package can be securely fastened, but the mounting pressure distribution becomes inhomogeneous

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting securenessVSAvoidmounting pressure distribution
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSStress or pressure

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting function is segmented into two independent components: a clip that provides uniform pressure distribution and a separate fastening element that provides secure attachment. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function without compromising the other.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The clip acts as an intermediary element between the semiconductor package and the heatsink, distributing the mounting pressure uniformly across the insulation layer while the fastening element secures the assembly. This mediator approach resolves the conflict between secure fastening and uniform pressure distribution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Temperature

If mounting pressure is increased to improve heat dissipation, then thermal resistance decreases, but the insulation layer may deform or fail over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheat dissipationVSAvoidinsulation layer stability
Core Design Contradiction:
TemperatureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The clip is designed with specific material properties and geometric parameters (elastic modulus, thickness, width) that allow it to provide optimal mounting pressure within a safe range. These parameters are optimized to achieve sufficient thermal contact pressure while remaining below the deformation threshold of the insulation layer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The clip utilizes elastic deformation to dynamically adjust and maintain constant mounting pressure on the insulation layer throughout the product lifetime, compensating for thermal expansion and mechanical settling while preventing permanent deformation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Stress or pressure

If a clip is used instead of screws, then mounting pressure distribution improves, but the fastening strength may be insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting pressure distributionVSAvoidfastening strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Stress or pressureVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges two previously separate functions into a single integrated mounting system: the clip provides pressure distribution while the integrated fastening element (screw hole or thread) provides secure attachment. This combination achieves both uniform pressure distribution and sufficient fastening strength simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This configuration reduces thermal resistance and enhances heat dissipation capabilities by maintaining consistent pressure across the insulation layer throughout the product's lifetime.

Implementation Method 1

The thermal throughput of such insulation layers highly depends on the mounting pressure coming from the screw or clip. Heat dissipation is strongly related to the mounting pressure all over the insulation layer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentUS20250125218A1Electronic module having a clip connected to a semiconductor package
Publication Date: 2025.04.17 INFINEON TECH AUSTRIA AG
  • US20250125218A1 patent drawing
  • US20250125218A1 patent drawing
  • US20250125218A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic module includes a semiconductor package, and a clip connected to the semiconductor package. The clip is connected to or includes at least one fastening element which is configured to make a connection to an external heatsink.