Patent ID: 7120023

Claim:
A variable-height thermal-interface assembly for transferring heat from a heat source to a heat sink, said assembly comprising: a first slidable interface between two contacting surfaces, said slidable interface inclined diagonally relative to a z-axis parallel to the shortest distance between said heat source and said heat sink, said two contacting surfaces operable to slide relative to one another parallel to the direction of said incline to provide z-axis expansion of said thermal interface assembly; a spring clip mechanically spring loading said slidable interface, said spring clip operable when released to apply a shear force across said slidable interface, said shear force causing said two contacting surfaces to slide relative to one another, coupling said sliding to provide said z-axis expansion; and a reversible locking device, operable when in a locked condition to prevent said two contacting surfaces from sliding relative to one another, such that said spring clip remains retracted, and operable when in an unlocked condition to allow said two contacting surfaces to slide relative to one another, such that said spring clip is released.