Patent ID: RE44372

Claim:
An apparatus comprising: (a) a first encapsulated electronic module configured as a self-contained assembly and having a first generally box-like exterior shape including a generally flat top surface and a perimeter surface comprising side surfaces adjoining the top surface, each side surface having a length along a perimeter of the exterior shape and a height normal (generally perpendicular) to a plane parallel to the top surface; electronic circuitry within the first exterior shape, the electronic circuitry including a plurality of heat dissipating devices; a heat conducting structure internal to the first module adapted to conduct heat from the heat dissipating devices to a selected area of the perimeter surface; and a plurality of module terminals for making electrical connections to the electronic circuitry of the first module; (b) a heat removal device comprising a first cavity having an interior surface, the interior surface having an upper surface adapted to match a portion of the top surface; side walls adapted to match a portion of the perimeter surface, the matched portion of the perimeter surface comprising at least fifty percent (50%) of the selected area of the perimeter surface; and wherein the interior surface is adapted to receive at least fifty percent (50%) of the first exterior shape, wherein the matched portion of the perimeter surface is at least thirty three percent (33%) of the matched portion of the top surface by area; and (c) a thermally conductive substance in the first cavity adapted to thermally couple the upper surface and side walls of the first cavity to the matched portions of the top and perimeter surfaces of the first module.