| abstract |
An integrated circuit structure may be formed having a first integrated circuit device, a second integrated circuit device electrically coupled to the first integrated circuit device, and at least one unidirectional heat transfer device between the first integrated circuit device and the second integrated circuit device. In one embodiment, the unidirectional heat transfer device may be oriented such that it has a higher conductivity in the direction of heat transfer from the first integrated circuit device to the second integrated circuit device than it does in the opposite direction. When the temperature of the second integrated circuit device rises above the temperature of the first integrated circuit device, the unidirectional heat transfer device will act as a thermal insulator, and when the temperature of the first integrated circuit device rises above the temperature of the second integrated circuit device, the unidirectional heat transfer device will act as a thermal conductor. |