Patent Publication Number: US-10314343-B2

Title: Pod assembly and e-vapor apparatus including the same

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     The present application is a continuation under 35 U.S.C. § 119/120 of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/601,365, filed on May 22, 2017, which is a continuation-in-part under 35 U.S.C. § 120 of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/334,989, filed Oct. 26, 2016, which is a continuation-in-part under 35 U.S.C. § 120 of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/998,020 (formerly U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/151,148), filed Apr. 22, 2015, the entire contents of each of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Field 
     The present disclosure relates to electronic vapor (e-vapor) devices including self-contained articles including pre-vapor formulations. 
     Description of Related Art 
     Some e-vapor devices include a first section coupled to a second section via a threaded connection. The first section may be a replaceable cartridge, and the second section may be a reusable fixture. The threaded connection may be a combination of a male threaded member on the first section and a female threaded receiver on the second section. 
     SUMMARY 
     An e-vapor apparatus may include a pod assembly including a pre-vapor formulation compartment, a first electrical connector, a vapor channel traversing the pre-vapor formulation compartment, and a vaporizer, the pre-vapor formulation compartment configured to hold a pre-vapor formulation therein and in fluidic communication with the vaporizer during an operation of the e-vapor apparatus, the first electrical connector including first and second power electrodes, the first power electrode including a first contact portion on an exterior of the first electrical connector and a first extended portion configured to contact an anode portion of the vaporizer, the second power electrode including a second contact portion on the exterior of the first electrical connector and a second extended portion configured to contact a cathode portion of the vaporizer. The e-vapor apparatus may further include a dispensing body defining a receiving area to receive the pod assembly, the dispensing body including a second electrical connector configured to connect to the first electrical connector. 
     In an example embodiment, each of the first contact portion and the second contact portion includes a part that extends away from the exterior of the first electrical connector. 
     In an example embodiment, the part that extends away from the exterior of the first electrical connector is semi-circular. 
     In an example embodiment, the first contact portion and the second contact portion are configured to apply a spring force on the second electrical connector. 
     In an example embodiment, the first electrical connector further includes first data contacts, the first data contacts being blade-shaped. 
     In an example embodiment, the second electrical connector includes a body, the body defining slots for receiving the first data contacts and second data contacts on the body and in the slots. 
     In an example embodiment, the second data contacts are configured to apply a spring force on the first data contacts. 
     In an example embodiment, the first extended portion and the second extended portion are configured to apply a spring force on the vaporizer. 
     In an example embodiment, the pre-vapor formulation compartment and the first electrical connector are at opposite ends of the pod assembly. 
     In an example embodiment, the first electrical connector includes a memory device and an air flow sensor. 
     In an example embodiment, the dispensing body is configured to supply power to the pod assembly and communicate with the pod assembly via at least one electrical contact. 
     In an example embodiment, dimensions of the receiving area correspond-dimensions of the pod assembly. 
     In an example embodiment, the receiving area is a through-hole. 
     In an example embodiment, the dispensing body includes a mouthpiece that includes a vapor passage, the vapor passage being in fluidic communication with the vapor channel when the pod assembly is electrically connected to the dispensing body. 
     In an example embodiment, the e-vapor apparatus further includes an attachment structure on at least one of a side wall of the receiving area and a side surface of the pod assembly, the attachment structure configured to engage and hold the pod assembly upon insertion into the receiving area. 
     At least one example embodiment is directed to a pod assembly for an e-vapor apparatus. The pod assembly includes a pre-vapor formulation compartment configured to hold a pre-vapor formulation therein, a vapor channel traversing the pre-vapor formulation compartment, a vaporizer configured to be in fluidic communication with the pre-vapor formulation compartment and a device compartment configured to be in fluidic communication with the pre-vapor formulation compartment, the device compartment including a first electrical connector, the first electrical connector including first and second power electrodes, the first power electrode including a first contact portion on an exterior of the first electrical connector and a first extended portion configured to contact an anode portion of the vaporizer, the second power electrode including a second contact portion on the exterior of the first electrical connector and a second extended portion configured to contact a cathode portion of the vaporizer. 
     In an example embodiment, each of the first contact portion and the second contact portion includes a part that extends away from the exterior of the first electrical connector. 
     In an example embodiment, the part that extends away from the exterior of the first electrical connector is semi-circular. 
     In an example embodiment, the first electrical connector further includes first data contacts, the first data contacts being blade-shaped. 
     In an example embodiment, the first electrical connector includes a memory device and an air flow sensor. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein may become more apparent upon review of the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are merely provided for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted to limit the scope of the claims. The accompanying drawings are not to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly noted. For purposes of clarity, various dimensions of the drawings may have been exaggerated. 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a dispensing body of an e-vapor apparatus according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  is an exploded view of the dispensing body of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the mouthpiece of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the first frame of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of the second frame of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of the body portion of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of the end piece of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of another dispensing body of an e-vapor apparatus according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 9  is an exploded view of the dispensing body of  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of the first mouthpiece of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of the second mouthpiece of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of the first frame of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of the frame trim of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the second frame of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a pod assembly of an e-vapor apparatus according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 16  is a top view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 17  is a side view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 18  is an exploded view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 19  a perspective view of several pod assemblies according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 20  is a view of an e-vapor apparatus with a pod assembly inserted in a dispensing body according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 21  illustrates a device system diagram of a dispensing body according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 22  illustrates a pod system diagram of a dispensing body according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 23  is an exploded view of another pod assembly of an e-vapor apparatus according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 24A  is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 23  when assembled and before actuation. 
         FIG. 24B  is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 23  when assembled and before actuation. 
         FIG. 25A  is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 23  when assembled and after actuation. 
         FIG. 25B  is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 23  when assembled and after actuation. 
         FIG. 25C  is a tilted and angled cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 23  when assembled and after actuation. 
         FIG. 26  is an exploded view of another pod assembly of an e-vapor apparatus according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 27A  is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 26  when assembled and before actuation. 
         FIG. 27B  is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 26  when assembled and before actuation. 
         FIG. 28A  is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 26  when assembled and after actuation. 
         FIG. 28B  is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 26  when assembled and after actuation. 
         FIG. 28C  is a tilted and angled cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 26  when assembled and after actuation. 
         FIG. 29  is an exploded view of another pod assembly of an e-vapor apparatus according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 30A  is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 29  when assembled and before actuation. 
         FIG. 30B  is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 29  when assembled and before actuation. 
         FIG. 30C  is a tilted and angled cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 29  when assembled and before actuation. 
         FIG. 31A  is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 29  when assembled and after actuation. 
         FIG. 31B  is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 29  when assembled and after actuation. 
         FIG. 31C  is a tilted and angled cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 29  when assembled and after actuation. 
         FIG. 32  is an exploded view of another pod assembly of an e-vapor apparatus according to an example embodiment. 
         FIG. 33  is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 32  when assembled. 
         FIG. 34  is a partial view of an e-vapor apparatus with the pod assembly of  FIG. 33  inserted in a dispensing body according to an example embodiment. 
         FIGS. 35A-35F  illustrate an example embodiment of a pod assembly having an electrical connector assembly. 
         FIG. 36  illustrates another example embodiment of an electrical connector assembly. 
         FIG. 37A  illustrates a dispensing body of an e-vaping device including an electrical connector assembly. 
         FIG. 37B  illustrates a perspective view of the electrical connector assembly shown in  FIG. 37A . 
         FIGS. 37C-37F  illustrate a connection between a connector assembly of a pod assembly and a connector assembly of a dispensing body, according to an example embodiment. 
         FIGS. 38A-38C  illustrate an example embodiment of a pod assembly having an electrical connector assembly. 
         FIG. 39A  illustrates an example embodiment of a dispensing body for receiving a pod assembly. 
         FIGS. 39B-39C  illustrate more detailed views of a connector assembly shown in  FIG. 39A . 
         FIG. 40  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in  FIG. 38A  and the connector assembly shown in  FIG. 39A . 
         FIGS. 41A-41F  illustrate another example embodiment of an electrical connector assembly. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “connected to,” “coupled to,” or “covering” another element or layer, it may be directly on, connected to, coupled to, or covering the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the specification. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. 
     It should be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of example embodiments. 
     Spatially relative terms (e.g., “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like) may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature&#39;s relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” may encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. 
     The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “includes,” “including,” “comprises,” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. 
     Example embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of example embodiments. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, example embodiments should not be construed as limited to the shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing. The regions illustrated in the figures are schematic in nature and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the actual shape of a region of a device and are not intended to limit the scope of example embodiments. 
     Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, including those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a dispensing body of an e-vapor apparatus according to an example embodiment. Referring to  FIG. 1 , a dispensing body  104  of an e-vapor apparatus includes a frame portion that is connected to a body portion  118 . The frame portion includes a first frame  110  and a second frame  112 . The side walls  116  (e.g., inner side surfaces) of the first frame  110  and the second frame  112  define a through-hole  114 . The through-hole  114  is configured to receive a pod assembly (which will be subsequently discussed in detail). 
     Generally, an e-vapor apparatus may include the dispensing body  104 , a pod assembly inserted in the through-hole  114  of the dispensing body  104 , and a vaporizer disposed in at least one of the pod assembly and the dispensing body  104 . The pod assembly may include a pre-vapor formulation compartment (e.g., liquid compartment), a device compartment, and a vapor channel. The vapor channel may extend from the device compartment and traverse the pre-vapor formulation compartment. The pre-vapor formulation compartment is configured to hold a pre-vapor formulation (e.g., e-liquid) therein. A pre-vapor formulation is a material or combination of materials that may be transformed into a vapor. For example, the pre-vapor formulation may be a liquid, solid, and/or gel formulation including, but not limited to, water, beads, solvents, active ingredients, ethanol, plant extracts, natural or artificial flavors, and/or vapor formers such as glycerine and propylene glycol. 
     The dispensing body  104  includes a proximal portion and an opposing distal portion. The mouthpiece  108  is disposed at the proximal portion, while the end piece  120  is disposed at the distal portion. The proximal portion includes a vapor passage  106  and the through-hole  114 . The vapor passage  106  extends from an end surface of the proximal portion to the side wall  116  of the through-hole  114 . The vapor passage  106  is in the form of one or more passageways extending through the proximal portion of the dispensing body  104 . The through-hole  114  is between the vapor passage  106  and the distal portion of the dispensing body  104  (e.g., between the mouthpiece  108  and the body portion  118 ). 
     A vaporizer (which will be subsequently discussed in more detail) is disposed in at least one of the pod assembly and the dispensing body  104 . The pre-vapor formulation compartment of the pod assembly is configured to be in fluidic communication with the vaporizer during an operation of the e-vapor apparatus such that the pre-vapor formulation from the pre-vapor formulation compartment comes into thermal contact with the vaporizer. The vaporizer is configured to heat the pre-vapor formulation to produce a vapor that passes through the pod assembly via the vapor channel. The through-hole  114  of the dispensing body  104  is configured to receive the pod assembly such that the vapor channel of the pod assembly is aligned with the vapor passage  106  of the dispensing body  104  so as to facilitate a delivery of the vapor through the vapor passage  106  of the dispensing body  104 . 
       FIG. 2  is an exploded view of the dispensing body of  FIG. 1 . Referring to  FIG. 2 , the first frame  110  and the second frame  112  are configured to unite to form the frame portion of the dispensing body  104 . A number of options are available for uniting the first frame  110  and the second frame  112 . In an example embodiment, the first frame  110  is a female member, while the second frame  112  is a male member that is configured to engage therewith. Alternatively, the first frame  110  may be a male member, while the second frame  112  may be a female member that is configured to engage therewith. The engagement of the first frame  110  and the second frame  112  may be via a snap-fit, friction-fit, or slide-lock type arrangement, although example embodiments are not limited thereto. 
     The first frame  110  may be regarded as the front frame of the dispensing body  104 , and the second frame  112  may be regarded as the rear frame (or vice versa). Additionally, the proximal ends of the first frame  110  and the second frame  112 , when united, define the vapor passage  106  therebetween. The vapor passage  106  may be in the form of a single passageway that is in communication with the through-hole  114  defined by the side wall  116 . Alternatively, the vapor passage  106  may be in the form of a plurality of passageways that are in communication with the through-hole  114  defined by the side wall  116 . In such an example, the plurality of passageways may include a central passageway surrounded by peripheral passageways (or just several evenly spaced passageways). Each of the plurality of passageways may independently extend from the through-hole  114  to the proximal end surface of the frame portion. Alternatively, a common passageway may extend partly from the through-hole  114  and then branch into a plurality of passageways that extend to the proximal end surface of the frame portion. 
     The mouthpiece  108  is configured to slip onto the proximal end of the frame portion that defines the vapor passage  106 . As a result, the outer surface of the proximal end formed by the first frame  110  and the second frame  112  may correspond to an inner surface of the mouthpiece  108 . Alternatively, the proximal end defining the vapor passage  106  may be integrally formed as part of the mouthpiece  108  (instead of being a part of the frame portion). The mouthpiece  108  may be secured via a snap-fit type or other suitable arrangement. In an example embodiment, the mouthpiece  108  is a removable element that is intended to permit voluntary, recommended, or required replacement by an adult vaper. For instance, the mouthpiece  108  may, in addition to its intended functionality, provide a visual or other sensory appeal to the adult vaper. In particular, the mouthpiece  108  may be formed of an ornamental material (e.g., wood, metal, ceramic) and/or include designs (e.g., patterns, images, characters). Thus, the mouthpiece  108  may be customized so as to provide an expression of personality and individuality by an adult vaper. In other instances, the removable nature of the mouthpiece  108  may facilitate a recommended replacement due to the amount of usage or a required replacement due to wear over time or damage (e.g., chipped mouthpiece  108  caused by accidental dropping of e-vapor apparatus). 
     The lower ends of the first frame  110  and the second frame  112  opposite the proximal ends (that define the vapor passage  106 ) are configured to insert into the body portion  118 . To facilitate a secure fit, the outer surface of the lower ends of the first frame  110  and the second frame  112  may correspond to a receiving inner surface of the body portion  118 . Additionally, the lower ends of the first frame  110  and the second frame  112  may also define a groove therebetween to accommodate one or more wires that connect to one or more electrical contacts provided in the side wall  116  (e.g., lower surface of the side wall  16  opposite the vapor passage  106 ). A power source (e.g., battery) may also be provided in the groove to supply the requisite current through the wire(s). Alternatively, the power source may be provided in an available space within the body portion  118  between the inserted lower end of the frame portion and the end piece  120 . 
     A first button  122  and a second button  124  may be provided on the body portion  118  and connected to the corresponding circuitry and electronics therein. In an example embodiment, the first button  122  may be a power button, and the second button  124  may be a battery level indicator. The battery level indicator may display a representation of the amount of power available (e.g.,  3  out of 4 bars). In addition, the battery level indicator may also blink and/or change colors to alert an adult vaper to recharge the e-vapor apparatus. To stop the blinking, an adult vaper may simply press the second button  124 . Thus, the button(s) of the e-vapor apparatus may have a control and/or display function. It should be understood that the examples with regard to the first button  122  and the second button  124  are not intended to be limiting and can have different implementations depending on the desired functionalities. Accordingly, more than two buttons (and/or of different shapes) may be provided in the same proximity or at a different location on the e-vapor apparatus. 
       FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the mouthpiece of  FIG. 2 . Referring to  FIG. 3 , the mouthpiece  108  may be an open-ended cap-like structure that is configured to slip onto the proximal end of the frame portion defining the vapor passage  106 . The mouthpiece  108  may have a wider base that tapers to a narrower top. However, it should be understood that example embodiments are not limited thereto. The mouthpiece  108  may also be shaped to better accommodate an adult vaper&#39;s mouth during the application of negative pressure. For instance, one side of the mouthpiece  108  may be more linear, while the opposing side may be more curved. 
       FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the first frame of  FIG. 2 . Referring to  FIG. 4 , the first frame  110  includes a side wall  116  that defines a through-hole  114 . The first frame  110  is configured to unite with the second frame  112 , which also includes a side wall  116  defining a through-hole  114 . Because the combined through-hole  114  is configured to receive a pod assembly, the side walls  116  of the first frame  110  and the second frame  112  may form a relatively smooth and continuous surface to facilitate the insertion of the pod assembly. 
       FIG. 5  is a perspective view of the second frame of  FIG. 2 . Referring to  FIG. 5 , the second frame  112  is configured to unite with the first frame  110  such that the shape defined by the combined side walls  116  corresponds to the shape of the side surface of a pod assembly. In addition, an attachment structure (e.g., mating member/recess, magnetic arrangement) may be provided on at least one of the side walls  116  and the side surface of the pod assembly. 
     For example, the attachment structure may include a mating member that is formed on the side wall  116  (of the first frame  110  and/or second frame  112 ) and a corresponding recess that is formed on the side surface of the pod assembly. Conversely, the mating member may be formed on the side surface of the pod assembly, while the corresponding recess may be formed on the side wall  116  (of the first frame  110  and/or second frame  112 ). In a non-limiting embodiment, the mating member may be a rounded structure to facilitate the engagement/disengagement of the attachment structure, while the recess may be a concave indentation that corresponds to the curvature of the rounded structure. The mating member may also be spring-loaded so as to retract (via spring compression) when the pod assembly is being inserted into the through-hole  114  and protract (via spring decompression) when mating member becomes aligned with the corresponding recess. The engagement of the mating member with the corresponding recess may result in an audible sound (e.g., click), which notifies the adult vaper that the pod assembly is secured and properly positioned within the through-hole  114  of the dispensing body  104 . 
     In another example, the attachment structure may include a magnetic arrangement. For instance, a first magnet may be arranged in the side wall  116  (of the first frame  110  and/or second frame  112 ), and a second magnet may be arranged in the side surface of the pod assembly. The first and/or second magnets may be exposed or hidden from view behind a layer of material. The first and second magnets are oriented so as to be attracted to each other, and a plurality of pairs of the first and second magnets may be provided to ensure that the pod assembly will be secure and properly aligned within the through-hole  114  of the dispensing body  104 . As a result, when the pod assembly is inserted in the through-hole  114 , the pair(s) of magnets (e.g., first and second magnets) will be attracted to each other and, thus, hold the pod assembly within the through-hole  114  while properly aligning the channel outlet of the pod assembly with the vapor passage  106  of the dispensing body  104 . 
       FIG. 6  is a perspective view of the body portion of  FIG. 2 . Referring to  FIG. 6 , the body portion  118  may be a tube-like structure that constitutes a substantial segment of the dispensing body  104 . The cross-section of the body portion  118  may be oval-shaped, although other shapes are possible depending on the structure of the frame portion. An adult vaper may hold the e-vapor apparatus by the body portion  118 . Accordingly, the body portion  118  may be formed of (or covered with) a material that provides enhanced gripping and/or texture appeal to the fingers 
       FIG. 7  is a perspective view of the end piece of  FIG. 2 . Referring to  FIG. 7 , the end piece  120  is configured to be inserted in the distal end of the body portion  118 . The shape of the end piece  120  may correspond to the shape of the distal end of the body portion  118  so as to provide a relatively smooth and continuous transition between the two surfaces. 
       FIG. 8  is a perspective view of another dispensing body of an e-vapor apparatus according to an example embodiment. Referring to  FIG. 8 , the dispensing body  204  includes a side wall  216  defining a through-hole  214  that is configured to receive a pod assembly. A substantial portion of the framework of the dispensing body  204  is provided by the first frame  210 , the frame trim  211 , and the second frame  212  (e.g.,  FIG. 9 ). A vapor passage  206  and a first mouthpiece  208  are provided at a proximal portion of the dispensing body  204 . 
       FIG. 9  is an exploded view of the dispensing body of  FIG. 8 . Referring to  FIG. 9 , the frame trim  211  is sandwiched between the first frame  210  and the second frame  212 . However, it should be understood that it is possible to modify and structure the first frame  210  and the second frame  212  such that the frame trim  211  is not needed. The vapor passage  206  may be defined by both the proximal ends of the first frame  210  and the second frame  212  as well as the second mouthpiece  209 . As a result, the vapor passage  206  extends from the side wall  216  to the outlet end of the second mouthpiece  209 . The first mouthpiece  208  is configured to slip onto the second mouthpiece  209 . In an example embodiment, the first mouthpiece  208  may be structured to be removable, while the second mouthpiece  209  may be structured to be permanent. Alternatively, the first mouthpiece  208  may be integrated with the second mouthpiece  209  to form a single structure that is removable. 
     A first button  222 , a second button  224 , and a third button  226  may be provided on the second frame  212  of the dispensing body  204 . In an example embodiment, the first button  222  may be a display (e.g., battery level indicator), the second button  224  may control an amount of pre-vapor formulation available to the heater, and the third button  226  may be the power button. However, it should be understood that example embodiments are not limited thereto. Notably, the buttons can have different implementations depending on the desired functionalities. Accordingly, a different number of buttons (and/or of different shapes) may be provided in the same proximity or at a different location on the e-vapor apparatus. Furthermore, the features and considerations in connection with the dispensing body  104  that are also applicable to the dispensing body  204  may be as discussed supra in connection with the dispensing body  104 . 
       FIG. 10  is a perspective view of the first mouthpiece of  FIG. 9 . Referring to  FIG. 10 , the first mouthpiece  208  is configured to fit over the second mouthpiece  209 . Thus, the inner surface of the first mouthpiece  208  may correspond to an outer surface of the second mouthpiece  209 . 
       FIG. 11  is a perspective view of the second mouthpiece of  FIG. 9 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 11 , the second mouthpiece  209  defines a vapor passage  206  therein. The second mouthpiece  209  may resemble the combined proximal ends of the first frame  110  and the second frame  112  that define the vapor passage  106  of the dispensing body  104 . 
       FIG. 12  is a perspective view of the first frame of  FIG. 9 . Referring to  FIG. 12 , the first frame  210  includes a side wall  216  that defines a through-hole  214 . The top end of the first frame  210  may include a connection structure that facilitates the connection of at least the second mouthpiece  209  thereto. 
       FIG. 13  is a perspective view of the frame trim of  FIG. 9 . Referring to  FIG. 13 , the frame trim  211  may be in the form of a curved strip that is supported by a central plate. When arranged between the first frame  210  and the second frame  212 , the frame trim  211  forms a side surface of the dispensing body  204 , although example embodiments are not limited thereto. 
       FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the second frame of  FIG. 9 . Referring to  FIG. 14 , the second frame  212  includes a side wall  216  that defines a through-hole  214 . The top end of the second frame  212  may include a connection structure that facilitates the connection of at least the second mouthpiece  209  thereto. In addition, the surface of the second frame  212  may be provided with a pattern or textured appearance. Such patterning and texturing may be aesthetic (e.g., visually appealing) and/or functional (e.g., enhanced grip) in nature. Although not shown, the surface of the first frame  210  may be similarly provided. 
       FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a pod assembly of an e-vapor apparatus according to an example embodiment. Referring to  FIG. 15 , the pod assembly  302  includes a pod trim  310  that is arranged between a first cap  304  and a second cap  314 . The first cap  304  may be regarded as a front cap, and the second cap  314  may be regarded as a rear cap (or vice versa). The first cap  304  and the second cap  314  may be formed of a transparent material to permit a viewing of the contents (e.g., pre-vapor formulation) in the pod assembly  302 . The pod trim  310  defines a channel outlet  312  for the release of vapor generated within the pod assembly  302 . 
     The pod assembly  302  is a self-contained article that can be sealed with a protective film that wraps around the pod trim  310 . Additionally, because of the closed system nature of the pod assembly  302 , the risk of tampering and contamination can be reduced. Also, the chance of unwanted physical exposure to the pre-vapor formulation within the pod assembly  302  (e.g., via a leak) can be reduced. Furthermore, the pod assembly  302  can be structured so as to prevent refilling. 
       FIG. 16  is a top view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 15 . Referring to  FIG. 16 , the second cap  314  is wider than the first cap  304 . As a result, the pod trim  310  may slant outwards from the first cap  304  to the second cap  314 . However, it should be understood that other configurations are possible depending on the design of the pod assembly  302 . 
       FIG. 17  is a side view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 15 . Referring to  FIG. 17 , the second cap  314  is longer than the first cap  304 . As a result, the pod trim  310  may slant outwards from the first cap  304  to the second cap  314 . As a result, the pod assembly  302  may be inserted in a dispensing body such that the side corresponding to the first cap  304  is received in the through-hole first. In an example embodiment, the pod assembly  302  may be inserted in the through-hole  114  of the dispensing body  104  and/or the through-hole  214  of the dispensing body  204 . 
       FIG. 18  is an exploded view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 15 . Referring to  FIG. 18 , the internal space of the pod assembly  302  may be divided into a plurality of compartments by virtue of the elements therein. For instance, the tapered outlet of the vapor channel  308  may be aligned with the channel outlet  312 , and the space bounded by the first cap  304 , the vapor channel  308 , the pod trim  310 , and the second cap  314  may be regarded as the pre-vapor formulation compartment. Additionally, the bounded space under the vapor channel  308  may be regarded as the device compartment. For instance, the device compartment may include the vaporizer  306 . One benefit of including the vaporizer  306  in the pod assembly  302  is that the vaporizer  306  will only be used for the amount of pre-vapor formulation contained within the pre-vapor formulation compartment and, thus, will not be overused. 
       FIG. 19  a perspective view of several pod assemblies according to an example embodiment. Referring to  FIG. 19 , each of the pod assemblies  402  includes a pod trim  410  arranged between a first cap  404  and a second cap  414 . The vapor channel  408  is aligned with the channel outlet  412  and arranged above the vaporizer  406 . The pod assembly  402  is sealed to hold a pre-vapor formulation  418  therein and to preclude tampering therewith. The pre-vapor formulation compartment of the pod assembly  402  is configured to hold the pre-vapor formulation  418 , and the device compartment includes the vaporizer  406 . 
     In further detail, the pod assembly  402  for an e-vapor apparatus may include a pre-vapor formulation compartment configured to hold a pre-vapor formulation  418  therein. A device compartment is configured to be in fluidic communication with the pre-vapor formulation compartment. The device compartment includes a vaporizer  406 . A vapor channel  408  extends from the device compartment and traverses the pre-vapor formulation compartment. 
     The pod assembly  402  is configured for insertion into a dispensing body. As a result, the dimensions of the pod assembly  402  may correspond to the dimensions of the through-hole (e.g.,  114 ) of the dispensing body (e.g.,  104 ). The vapor channel  408  may be between the mouthpiece (e.g.,  108 ) and the device compartment when the pod assembly  402  is inserted into the through-hole of the dispensing body. 
     An attachment structure (e.g., male/female member arrangement, magnetic arrangement) may be provided on at least one of the side wall (e.g.,  116 ) of the through-hole (e.g.,  114 ) and a side surface of the pod assembly  402 . The attachment structure may be configured to engage and hold the pod assembly  402  upon insertion into the through-hole of the dispensing body. In addition, the channel outlet  412  may be utilized to secure the pod assembly  402  within the through-hole of the dispensing body. For instance, the dispensing body may be provided with a retractable vapor connector that is configured to insert into the channel outlet  412  so as to secure the pod assembly  402  while also supplementing the vapor path from the channel outlet  412  to the vapor passage (e.g.,  106 ) of the dispensing body (e.g.,  104 ). The vapor connector may also be a rounded structure and/or spring-loaded to facilitate its retraction (e.g., via spring compression) and protraction (e.g., via spring decompression). 
     In an example embodiment, the pre-vapor formulation compartment of the pod assembly  402  may surround the vapor channel  408 . For instance, the vapor channel  408  may pass through a center of the pre-vapor formulation compartment, although example embodiments are not limited thereto. 
     Alternatively, instead of the vapor channel  408  shown in  FIG. 19 , a vapor channel may be in a form of a pathway that is arranged along at least one sidewall of the pre-vapor formulation compartment. For example, a vapor channel may be provided in a form of a pathway that spans between the first cap  404  and the second cap  414  while extending along one or both sides of an inner surface of the pod trim  410 . As a result, the pathway may have a thin, rectangular cross-section, although example embodiments are not limited thereto. When the pathway is arranged along two sidewalls of the pre-vapor formulation compartment (e.g., both inner sidewalls of the pod trim  410 ), the pathway along each sidewall may be configured to converge at a position (e.g., channel outlet  412 ) that is aligned with the vapor passage (e.g.,  106 ) of the dispensing body (e.g.,  104 ) when the pod assembly  402  is received in the through-hole  114 . 
     In another instance, the vapor channel may be in a form of a conduit that is arranged in at least one corner of the pre-vapor formulation compartment. Such a corner may be at the interface of the first cap  404  and/or the second cap  414  with the inner surface of the pod trim  410 . As a result, the conduit may have a triangular cross-section, although example embodiments are not limited thereto. When the conduit is arranged in at least two corners (e.g., front corners, rear corners, diagonal corners, side corners) of the pre-vapor formulation compartment, the conduit in each corner may be configured to converge at a position (e.g., channel outlet  412 ) that is aligned with the vapor passage (e.g.,  106 ) of the dispensing body (e.g.,  104 ) when the pod assembly  402  is received in the through-hole  114 . 
     The pre-vapor formulation compartment and the device compartment may be at opposite ends of the pod assembly  402 . The device compartment may include a memory device. The memory device may be coded with an electronic identity to permit at least one of an authentication of the pod assembly  402  and a pairing of operating parameters specific to a type of the pod assembly  402  when the pod assembly  402  is inserted into the through-hole of the dispensing body (e.g., smart calibration). The electronic identity may help prevent counterfeiting. The operating parameters may help optimize a vaping experience without placing a burden on the adult vaper to determine the proper settings. In an example embodiment, the level of pre-vapor formulation in the pod assembly  402  may be tracked. Additionally, the activation of the pod assembly  402  may be restricted once its intended usage life has been exceeded. Thus, the pod assembly  402  (and  302 ) may be regarded as a smart pod. 
     A side surface of the pod assembly  402  includes at least one electrical contact  416  and/or data connection  417  (e.g., two or three electrical contacts and/or data connections). The dispensing body may be configured to perform at least one of supply power to and communicate with the pod assembly  402  via the at least one electrical contact  416 . The at least one electrical contact  416  may be provided at an end of the pod assembly  402  corresponding to the device compartment. Because of its smart capability, the pod assembly  402  may communicate with dispensing body and/or another electronic device (e.g., smart phone). As a result, usage patterns and other information (e.g., flavor intensity, throat feel, puff count) may be generated, stored, transferred, and/or displayed. The smart capability, connecting features, and other related aspects of the pod assembly, dispensing body, and overall e-vapor apparatus are additionally discussed in U.S. Application No. 62/151,160, U.S. Application No. 62/151,179, and U.S. Application No. 62/151,248, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
       FIG. 20  is a view of an e-vapor apparatus with a pod assembly inserted in a dispensing body according to an example embodiment. Referring to  FIG. 20 , an e-vapor apparatus  500  includes a pod assembly  502  (e.g., smart pod) that is inserted within a dispensing body  504 . The pod assembly  502  may be as previously described in connection with the pod assembly  302  and the pod assembly  402 . As a result, the pod assembly  502  may be a hassle-free and leak-free part that can be replaced with relative ease when the pre-vapor formulation therein runs low/out or when another flavor is desired. 
       FIG. 21  illustrates a device system of a dispensing body according to an example embodiment. A device system  2100  may be the system within the dispensing body  104  and the dispensing body  204 . 
     The device system  2100  includes a controller  2105 , a power supply  2110 , actuator controls  2115 , a pod electrical/data interface  2120 , device sensors  2125 , input/output (I/O) interfaces  2130 , vaper indicators  2135 , at least one antenna  2140  and a storage medium  2145 . The device system  2100  is not limited to the features shown in  FIG. 21 . For example, the device system  2100  may include additional elements. However, for the sake of brevity, the additional elements are not described. 
     The controller  2105  may be hardware, firmware, hardware executing software or any combination thereof. When the controller  2105  is hardware, such existing hardware may include one or more Central Processing Units (CPUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific-integrated-circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) computers or the like configured as special purpose machines to perform the functions of the processor. As stated above, CPUs, DSPs, ASICs and FPGAs may generally be referred to as processing devices. 
     In the event where the controller  2105  is a processor executing software, the controller  2105  is configured as a special purpose machine to execute the software, stored in the storage medium  2145 , to perform the functions of the at least one of the controller  2105 . 
     As disclosed herein, the term “storage medium”, “computer readable storage medium” or “non-transitory computer readable storage medium” may represent one or more devices for storing data, including read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, core memory, magnetic disk storage mediums, optical storage mediums, flash memory devices and/or other tangible machine readable mediums for storing information. The term “computer-readable medium” may include, but is not limited to, portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other mediums capable of storing, containing or carrying instruction(s) and/or data. 
     Referring to  FIG. 21 , the controller  2105  communicates with the power supply  2110 , the actuator control  2115 , the pod electrical/data interface  2120 , the device sensors  2125 , the input/output (I/O) interfaces  2130 , the vaper indicators  2135 , the at least one antenna  2140 . 
     The controller  2105  communicates with the CC-NVM in the pod through the pod electrical/data interface  2120 . More specifically, the controller  2105  may utilize encryption to authenticate the pod. As will be described, the controller  2105  communicates with the CC-NVM package to authenticate the pod. More specifically, the non-volatile memory is encoded during manufacture with product and other information for authentication. 
     The memory device may be coded with an electronic identity to permit at least one of an authentication of the pod and a pairing of operating parameters specific to a type of the pod when the pod assembly  402  is inserted into the through-hole of the dispensing body. In addition to authenticating based on an electronic identity of the pod, the controller  2105  may authorize use of the pod based on an expiration date of the stored pre-vapor formulation and/or heater encoded into the non-volatile memory of the CC-NVM. If the controller determines that the expiration date encoded into the non-volatile memory has passed, the controller may not authorize use of the pod and disable the e-vaping device. 
     The controller  2105  (or storage medium  2145 ) stores key material and proprietary algorithm software for the encryption. For example, encryption algorithms rely on the use of random numbers. The security of these algorithms depends on how truly random these numbers are. These numbers are usually pre-generated and coded into the processor or memory devices. Example embodiments may increase the randomness of the numbers used for the encryption by using the puffing parameters e.g. puff durations, intervals between puffs, or combinations of them, to generate numbers that are more random and more varying from individual to individual than pre-generated random numbers. All communications between the controller  2105  and the pod may be encrypted. 
     Moreover, the pod can be used to as a general pay-load carrier for other information such as software patches for the e-vaping device. Since encryption is used in all the communications between the pod and the controller  2105 , such information is more secure and the e-vaping device is less prone to being installed with malwares or viruses. Use of the CC-NVM as an information carrier such as data and software updates allows the e-vaping device to be updated with software without it being connected to the Internet and for the adult vaper to go through a downloading process as with most other consumer electronics devices requiring periodic software updates. 
     The controller  2105  may also include a cryptographic accelerator to allow resources of the controller  2105  to perform functions other than the encoding and decoding involved with the authentication. The controller  2105  may also include other security features such as preventing unauthorized use of communication channels and preventing unauthorized access to data if a pod or vaper is not authenticated. 
     In addition to a cryptographic accelerator, the controller  2105  may include other hardware accelerators. For example, the controller  2105  may include a floating point unit (FPU), a separate DSP core, digital filters and Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) modules. 
     The controller  2105  operates a real time operating system (RTOS), controls the system  2100  and may be updated through communicating with the CC-NVM or when the system  2100  is connected with other devices (e.g., a smart phone) through the I/O interfaces  2130  and/or the antenna  2140 . The I/O interfaces  2130  and the antenna  2140  allow the system  2100  to connect to various external devices such as smart phones, tablets, and PCs. For example, the I/O interfaces  2130  may include a micro-USB connector. The micro-USB connector may be used by the system  2100  to charge the power source  2110   b.    
     The controller  2105  may include on-board RAM and flash memory to store and execute code including analytics, diagnostics and software upgrades. As an alternative, the storage medium  2145  may store the code. Additionally, in another example embodiment, the storage medium  2145  may be on-board the controller  2105 . 
     The controller  2105  may further include on-board clock, reset and power management modules to reduce an area covered by a PCB in the dispensing body. 
     The device sensors  2125  may include a number of sensor transducers that provide measurement information to the controller  2105 . The device sensors  2125  may include a power supply temperature sensor, an external pod temperature sensor, a current sensor for the heater, power supply current sensor, air flow sensor and an accelerometer to monitor movement and orientation. The power supply temperature sensor and external pod temperature sensor may be a thermistor or thermocouple and the current sensor for the heater and power supply current sensor may be a resistive based sensor or another type of sensor configured to measure current. The air flow sensor may be a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) flow sensor or another type of sensor configured to measure air flow. 
     The data generated from the number of sensor transducers may be sampled at a sample rate appropriate to the parameter being measured using a discrete, multi-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC). 
     The controller  2105  may adapt heater profiles for a pre-vapor formulation and other profiles based on the measurement information received from the controller  2105 . For the sake of convenience, these are generally referred to as vaping or vapor profiles. 
     The heater profile identifies the power profile to be supplied to the heater during the few seconds when a negative pressure is applied to the e-vapor device. An example of a heater profile may be the delivery of maximum power to the heater when a negative pressure is initially applied, but then after a second or so immediately reduce the power to half-way or a quarter-way or so. 
     The modulation of electrical power is usually implemented using pulse wave modulation instead of flipping an on/off switch such that the power is either full on or off. 
     In addition, a heater profile can also be modified by the extent to which the adult vaper applies negative pressure to the e-vaping device. The use of the MEMS flow sensor allows puff strength to be measured and used as feedback to the controller  2105  to adjust the power delivered to the heater of the pod, which may be referred to as heating or energy delivery. 
     When the controller  2105  recognizes the pod currently installed (e.g., via SKU), the controller  2105  matches an associated heating profile that is designed for that particular pod. The controller  2105  and the storage medium  2145  will store data and algorithms that allow the generation of heating profiles for all SKUs. The adult vapers may also adjust heating profiles to suit their preferences. 
     As shown in  FIG. 21 , the controller  2105  sends data to and receives data from the power supply  2110 . The power supply  2110  includes a power source  2110   b  and a power controller  2110   a  to manage the power output by the power source  2110   b.    
     The power source  2110   b  may be a Lithium-ion battery or one of its variants, for example a Lithium-ion polymer battery. Alternatively, the power source  2110   b  may be a Nickel-metal hydride battery, a Nickel cadmium battery, a Lithium-manganese battery, a Lithium-cobalt battery or a fuel cell. Alternatively, the power source  2110   b  may be rechargeable and include circuitry allowing the battery to be chargeable by an external charging device. In that case, the circuitry, when charged, provides power for a desired (or alternatively a pre-determined) number of puffs, after which the circuitry must be re-connected to an external charging device. 
     The power controller  2110   a  provides commands to the power source  2110   b  based on instructions from the controller  2105 . For example, the power supply  2110  may receive a command from the controller  2105  to provide power to the pod (through the electrical/data interface  2120 ) when the pod is authenticated and the adult vaper activates the system  2100  (e.g., by activating a switch such as a toggle button, capacitive sensor, IR sensor). When the pod is not authenticated, the controller  2105  may either send no command to the power supply  2110  or send an instruction to the power supply  2110  to not provide power. In another example embodiment, the controller  2105  may disable all operations of the system  2100  if the pod is not authenticated. 
     In addition to supplying power to the pod, the power supply  2110  also supplies power to the controller  2105 . Moreover, the power controller  2110   a  may provide feedback to the controller  2105  indicating performance of the power source  2110   b.    
     The controller  2105  sends data to and receives data from the at least one antenna  2140 . The at least one antenna  2140  may include a Near Field Communication (NFC) modem and a Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) modem and/or other modems for other wireless technologies (e.g., Wi-Fi). In an example embodiment, the communications stacks are in the modems, but the modems are controlled by the controller  2105 . The Bluetooth LE modem is used for data and control communications with an application on an external device (e.g., smart phone). The NFC modem may be used for pairing of the e-vaping device to the application and retrieval of diagnostic information. Moreover, the NFC modem may be used to provide location information (for an adult vaper to find the e-vaping device) or authentication during a purchase. 
     As described above, the system  2100  may generate and adjust various profiles for vaping. The controller  2105  uses the power supply  2110  and the actuator controls  2115  to regulate the profile for the adult vaper. 
     The actuator controls  2115  include passive and active actuators to regulate a desired vapor profile. For example, the dispensing body may include an inlet channel within a mouthpiece. The actuator controls  2115  may control the inlet channel based on commands from the controller  2105  associated with the desired vapor profile. 
     Moreover, the actuator controls  2115  are used to energize the heater in conjunction with the power supply  2110 . More specifically, the actuator controls  2115  are configured to generate a drive waveform associated with the desired vaping profile. As described above, each possible profile is associated with a drive waveform. Upon receiving a command from the controller  2105  indicating the desired vaping profile, the actuator controls  2115  may produce the associated modulating waveform for the power supply  2110 . 
     The controller  2105  supplies information to the vaper indicators  2135  to indicate statuses and occurring operations to the adult vaper. The vaper indicators  2135  include a power indicator (e.g., LED) that may be activated when the controller  2105  senses a button press by the adult vaper. The vaper indicators  2135  may also include a vibrator, speaker, an indicator for current state of a vaper-controlled vaping parameter (e.g., vapor volume) and other feedback mechanisms. 
     Furthermore, the system  2100  may include a number of on-product controls  2150  that provide commands from an adult vaper to the controller  2105 . The on-product controls  2150  include an on-off button which may be a toggle button, capacitive sensor or IR sensor, for example. The on-product controls  2150  may further include a vaping control button (if the adult vaper desires to override the buttonless vaping feature to energize the heater), a hard reset button, a touch based slider control (for controlling setting of a vaping parameter such as puff volume), a vaping control button to activate the slider control and a mechanical adjustment for an air inlet. 
     Once a pod is authenticated, the controller  2105  operates the power supply  2110 , the actuator controls  2115 , vaper indicators  2135  and antenna  2140  in accordance with an adult vaper using the e-vaping device and the information stored by the CC-NVM on the pod. Moreover, the controller  2105  may include logging functions and be able to implement algorithms to calibrate the e-vaping device. The logging functions are executed by the controller  2105  to record usage data as well any unexpected events or faults. The recorded usage data may be used for diagnostics and analytics. The controller  2105  may calibrate the e-vaping device using buttonless vaping, a vaper configuration and the stored information on the CC-NVM including puff sensing, pre-vapor formulation level, and pre-vapor formulation composition. For example, the controller  2105  may command the power supply  2110  to supply power to the heater in the pod based on a vaping profile associated with the pre-vapor formulation composition in the pod. Alternatively, a vaping profile may be encoded in the CC-NVM and utilized by the controller  2105 . 
       FIG. 22  illustrates a pod system diagram of a dispensing body according to an example embodiment. A pod system  2200  may be within the pod assembly  502 , the pod assembly  302  and the pod assembly  402 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 22 , the pod system  2200  includes a CC-NVM  2205 , a body electrical/date interface  2210 , a heater  2215  and pod sensors  2220 . The pod system  2200  communicates with the device system  2100  through the body electrical/data interface  2210  and the pod electrical/data interface  2120 . The body electrical/data interface  2210  may correspond to the electrical contacts  416  and data connection  417  connected within the pod assembly  402 , shown in  FIG. 19 , for example. Thus, the CC-NVM  2205  is coupled to the data connection  417  and the electrical contacts  416 . 
     The CC-NVM  2205  includes a cryptographic coprocessor  2205   a  and a non-volatile memory  2205   b . The controller  2105  may access the information stored on the non-volatile memory  2205   b  for the purposes of authentication and operating the pod by communicating with the cryptographic coprocessor  2205   a.    
     The non-volatile memory  2205   b  may be coded with an electronic identity to permit at least one of an authentication of the pod and a pairing of operating parameters specific to a type of the pod when the pod assembly is inserted into the through-hole of the dispensing body. In addition to authenticating based on an electronic identity of the pod, the controller  2105  may authorize use of the pod based on an expiration date of the stored pre-vapor formulation and/or heater encoded into the non-volatile memory  2205   b  of the CC-NVM. If the controller determines that the expiration date encoded into the non-volatile memory non-volatile memory  2205   b  has passed, the controller may not authorize use of the pod and disable the e-vaping device. 
     Moreover, the non-volatile memory  2205   b  may store information such as a stock keeping unit (SKU) of the pre-vapor formulation in the pre-vapor formulation compartment (including pre-vapor formulation composition), software patches for the system  2100 , product usage information such as puff count, puff duration, and pre-vapor formulation level. The non-volatile memory  2205   b  may store operating parameters specific to the type of the pod and the pre-vapor formulation composition. For example, the non-volatile memory  2205   b  may store the electrical and mechanical design of the pod for use by the controller  2105  to determine commands corresponding to a desired vaping profile. 
     The pre-vapor formulation level in the pod may be determined in one of two ways, for example. In one example embodiment, one of the pod sensors  2220  directly measures the pre-vapor formulation level in the pod. 
     In another example embodiment, the non-volatile memory  2205   b  stores the number of puffs taken from the pod and the controller  2105  uses the number of puffs taken as a proxy to the amount of pre-vapor formulation that is vaporized. 
     The controller  2105  and/or the storage medium  2145  may store pre-vapor formulation calibration data that identifies an operating point for the pre-vapor formulation composition. The pre-vapor formulation calibration data include data describing how flow rate changes with a remaining pre-vapor formulation level or how volatility changes with an age of the pre-vapor formulation and may be used for calibration by the controller  2105 . The pre-vapor formulation calibration data may be stored by the controller  2105  and/or the storage medium  2145  in a table format. The pre-vapor formulation calibration data allows the controller  2105  to equate the number of puffs taken to the amount of pre-vapor formulation that is vaporized. 
     The controller  2105  writes the pre-vapor formulation level and number of puffs taken back to the non-volatile memory  2205   b  in the pod so if the pod is removed from the dispensing body and later on re-installed, an accurate pre-vapor formulation level of the pod will still be known by the controller  2105 . 
     The operating parameters (e.g., power supply, power duration, air channel control) are referred to as a vaping profile. Moreover, the non-volatile memory  2205   b  may record information communicated by the controller  2105 . The non-volatile memory  2205   b  may retain the recorded information even when the dispensing body becomes disconnected from the pod. 
     In an example embodiment, the non-volatile memory  2205   b  may be a programmable read only memory. 
     The heater  2215  is actuated by the controller  2105  and transfers heat to the pre-vapor formulation in accordance with the commanded profile (volume, temperature (based on power profile) and flavor) from the controller  2105 . 
     The heater  2215  may be a wire coil surrounding a wick, a mesh, a surface or made out of a ceramic material for example. Examples of suitable electrically resistive materials include titanium, zirconium, tantalum and metals from the platinum group. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel-, cobalt-, chromium-, aluminum-titanium-zirconium-, hafnium-, niobium-, molybdenum-, tantalum-, tungsten-, tin-, gallium-, manganese- and iron-containing alloys, and super-alloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel. For example, the heater may be formed of nickel aluminides, a material with a layer of alumina on the surface, iron aluminides and other composite materials, the electrically resistive material may optionally be embedded in, encapsulated or coated with an insulating material or vice-versa, depending on the kinetics of energy transfer and the external physicochemical properties required. In one embodiment, the heater  2215  comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, copper, copper alloys, nickel-chromium alloys, superalloys and combinations thereof. In an embodiment, the heater  2215  is formed of nickel-chromium alloys or iron-chromium alloys. In one embodiment, the heater  2215  can be a ceramic heater having an electrically resistive layer on an outside surface thereof. 
     In another embodiment, the heater  2215  may be constructed of an iron-aluminide (e.g., FeAl or Fe 3 Al), such as those described in commonly owned U.S. Pat. No. 5,595,706 to Sikka, et al., filed Dec. 29, 1994, or nickel aluminides (e.g., Ni 3 Al), the entire contents of which are hereby incorporate by reference. 
     The heater  2215  may determine an amount of pre-vapor formulation to heat based on feedback from the pod sensors or the controller  2105 . The flow of pre-vapor formulation may be regulated by a micro-capillary or wicking action. Moreover, the controller  2105  may send commands to the heater  2215  to adjust an air inlet to the heater  2215 . 
     The pod sensor  2220  may include a heater temperature sensor, pre-vapor formulation flow rate monitor and air flow monitor. The heater temperature sensor may be a thermistor or thermocouple and the flow rate sensing may be performed by the pod system  2200  using electrostatic interference or an in-liquid rotator. The air flow sensor may be a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) flow sensor or another type of sensor configured to measure air flow. 
     The data generated from the pod sensors  2220  may be sampled at a sample rate appropriate to the parameter being measured using a discrete, multi-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC). 
       FIG. 23  is an exploded view of another pod assembly of an e-vapor apparatus according to an example embodiment. Referring to  FIG. 23 , a pin piercing mechanism is employed to actuate the pod assembly  602  prior to use. In an example embodiment, the pod assembly  602  includes an upper pod case  604 , a seal  606 , a foil  608 , a blade  610 , a pin  612 , an O-ring  614 , a cap  616 , a vaporizer  618 , a lower pod case  620 , and an electrical connector assembly  622  (electrical connector). 
     The pod assembly  602  is configured to store a pre-vapor formulation within an internal, hermetically-sealed compartment so as to isolate the pre-vapor formulation from other internal elements until the pod assembly  602  is actuated for vaping. Because the pre-vapor formulation is isolated from the environment as well as the internal elements of the pod assembly  602  that may potentially react with the pre-vapor formulation, the possibility of adverse effects to the shelf-life and/or sensorial characteristics (e.g., flavor) of the pre-vapor formulation may be reduced or prevented. The internal, hermetically-sealed compartment within the pod assembly  602  may be a reservoir defined by the upper pod case  604 , the seal  606 , and the foil  608 . 
     The blade  610  is configured to be mounted or attached to an upper portion of the pin  612 . The mounting or attachment may be achieved via a snap-fit connection, a friction fit connection, an adhesive, or other suitable coupling technique. The top of the blade  610  may have one or more curved or concave edges that taper upward to a pointed tip. As shown in  FIG. 23 , two blades  610  and two corresponding pins  612  may be provided on opposite sides of the vaporizer  618 , although example embodiments are not limited thereto. Each of the blades  610  may have two pointed tips with a concave edge therebetween and a curved edge adjacent to each pointed tip. The radii of curvature of the concave edge and the curved edges may be the same, while their arc lengths may differ. The blade  610  may be formed of a sheet metal (e.g., stainless steel) that is cut or otherwise shaped to have the desired profile and bent to its final form. In another instance, the blade  610  may be formed of plastic if the foil  608  is relatively thin. 
     The lower portion of the pin  612  is configured to extend through a bottom section of the lower pod case  620 . The distal end of the lower portion of the pin  612  is also provided with the O-ring  614  and covered with the cap  616 . The O-ring  614  may be formed of silicone. The electrical connector assembly  622  is configured to provide an electrical connection between the pod assembly  602  and a power supply (e.g., battery) so as to power the vaporizer  618  when the pod assembly  602  is inserted in a dispensing body for vaping. 
       FIG. 24A  is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 23  when assembled and before actuation.  FIG. 24B  is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 23  when assembled and before actuation. Referring to  FIG. 24A  and  FIG. 24B , the upper pod case  604  is configured to engage with the lower pod case  620 . The engagement may be via a snap-fit connection, a friction fit connection, an adhesive, or other suitable coupling technique. The upper portion of the vaporizer  618  is configured to extend into a vapor channel within the upper pod case  604 , while the lower portion of the vaporizer  618  is configured to engage with the electrical connector assembly  622 . The sector of the pod assembly  602  above the foil  608  for containing the pre-vapor formulation may be regarded as the pre-vapor formulation compartment, while the sector of the pod assembly  602  below the foil  608  may be regarded as the device compartment. The device compartment may be further regarded as being divided into at least a heating section and an electronics section. In an example embodiment, the vaporizer  618  is regarded as being part of the heating section. 
     Before the actuation of the pod assembly  602 , the blade  610  and the pin  612  will be below the foil  608  and, thus, below the reservoir containing the pre-vapor formulation. As a result, the distal end of the lower portion of the pin  612  (which is covered by the cap  616 ) will protrude from the bottom section of the lower pod case  620 . The foil  608  is designed to be strong enough to remain intact during the normal movement and/or handling of the pod assembly  602  so as to avoid being prematurely/inadvertently breached. For instance, the foil  608  may be a coated foil (e.g., aluminum-backed Tritan). 
       FIG. 25A  is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 23  when assembled and after actuation.  FIG. 25B  is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 23  when assembled and after actuation.  FIG. 25C  is a tilted and angled cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 23  when assembled and after actuation. Referring to  FIG. 25A ,  FIG. 25B , and  FIG. 25C , the pin  612  is pushed inward to actuate the pod assembly  602 . The pin  612  may be pushed inward manually by an adult vaper prior to inserting the actuated pod assembly  602  into the dispensing body. In such an instance, the pod assembly  602  may be configured to produce an audible sound (e.g., click) to indicate to the adult vaper that the pin  612  has been pushed sufficiently inward for actuation. The pod assembly  602  may also be configured such that the pin  612  is locked in place so as to not slide outward after actuation. Alternatively, the pin  612  may be pushed inward concurrently with the insertion of the pod assembly  602  by engaging features on the dispensing body. In another non-limiting embodiment, the unactuated pod assembly  602  may be first inserted into the dispensing body and then the pin  612  may be subsequently pushed inward mechanically by the dispensing body to actuate the pod assembly  602 . The action to push the pin  612  may be performed automatically by the dispensing body or initiated by a button pressed by an adult vaper. Furthermore, the pod assembly  602  may be configured such that the pin  612  does not protrude from the bottom section of the lower pod case  620  when in the unactuated state. 
     During the actuation of the pod assembly  602 , the inward movement of the pin  612  will cause the blade  610  to pierce and cut the foil  608  so as to release the pre-vapor formulation from the reservoir. In an example embodiment, the pin  612  includes an inner lip that folds the foil  608  back after (or concurrently with) the piercing and cutting by the blade  610 . In such an instance, the foil  608  may be pushed against the seal  606  by the inner lip of the pin  612 . The pin  612  may also include a groove or channel extending from its upper portion (which is adjacent to the blade  610 ) and extending downward along a part of its length. The pod assembly  602  may be configured such that the lower terminus of the groove or channel will be aligned with an opening in the vaporizer  618  when the pin  612  is pushed inward during actuation. The groove or channel in the pin  612  may facilitate the flow of the pre-vapor formulation into the opening of the vaporizer  618 . The vaporizer  618  includes a heater that will be in thermal and/or fluidic communication with the pre-vapor formulation after the pod assembly  602  is actuated. The heater within the vaporizer  618  is not particularly limited and may include a number of suitable types and configurations. During vaping, the vaporizer  618  will be activated to heat the pre-vapor formulation to generate a vapor that will be drawn through the vapor channel of the upper pod case  604  when a negative pressure is applied to the mouthpiece of the e-vapor device. 
       FIG. 26  is an exploded view of another pod assembly of an e-vapor apparatus according to an example embodiment. Referring to  FIG. 26 , a twist piercing mechanism is employed to actuate the pod assembly  702  prior to use. In an example embodiment, the pod assembly  702  includes an upper pod case  704 , a cap  706 , a foil  707 , a foil folder  708 , a blade  710 , a screw  712 , a vaporizer  714 , an insert  716 , a lower pod case  718 , a first contact  720 , a second contact  722 , and a printed circuit board (PCB)  724 . 
     The pod assembly  702  is configured to store a pre-vapor formulation within an internal, hermetically-sealed compartment so as to isolate the pre-vapor formulation from other internal elements until the pod assembly  702  is actuated for vaping. Because the pre-vapor formulation is isolated from the environment as well as the internal elements of the pod assembly  702  that may potentially react with the pre-vapor formulation, the possibility of adverse effects to the shelf-life and/or sensorial characteristics (e.g., flavor) of the pre-vapor formulation may be reduced or prevented. The internal, hermetically-sealed compartment within the pod assembly  702  may be a reservoir defined by the upper pod case  704 , the cap  706 , and the foil  707 . The foil folder  708  may be formed of stainless steel. In an example embodiment, the pod assembly  702  may be configured such that the foil  707  is integrated with the cap  706  for sealing the reservoir. Alternatively, the foil  707  may be included in the pod assembly  702  as a structure that is separate from the cap  706 . 
     The blade  710  may be configured to sit within the upper portion of the screw  712 . The size and shape of the blade  710  may be such that a lateral or rotational motion within the upper portion of the screw  712  is restricted or precluded while an axial displacement is permitted. In  FIG. 26 , the blade  710  is shown as having two pointed tips on opposite sides of a central opening. However, it should be understood that example embodiments are not limited thereto. The blade  710  may be formed of stainless steel. Alternatively, the blade  710  may be formed of plastic if the foil  707  is relatively thin. 
     The upper portion of the vaporizer  714  is configured to extend through the central openings of the screw  712 , the blade  710 , the foil folder  708 , and the cap  706  and into a vapor channel within the upper pod case  704 . The insert  716  is configured to receive the lower portion of the vaporizer  714 , and both the insert  716  and the lower portion of the vaporizer  714  are seated in the lower pod case  718 . The insert  716  may be formed of brass. The lower portion of the screw  712  is configured to be threadedly engaged with the lower pod case  718 . The first contact  720  and the second contact  722  may be formed of beryllium copper (BeCu). 
       FIG. 27A  is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 26  when assembled and before actuation.  FIG. 27B  is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 26  when assembled and before actuation. Referring to  FIG. 27A  and  FIG. 27B , the upper pod case  704  is configured to connect with the cap  706 , and the upper portion of the screw  712  is configured to be inserted into the cap  706 . In an example embodiment, the outer side wall of the screw  712  interfaces with the inner side wall of the cap  706 . The lower portion of the screw  712  is threadedly engaged with the lower pod case  718 , and the threaded engagement is configured such that the lower pod case  718  can be rotated in a first direction to move upwards towards the upper pod case  704 . The threaded engagement can also be configured so as to prevent the lower pod case  718  from becoming unscrewed or detached from the screw  712  when rotated in an opposite second direction. 
     Before actuation, the blade  710  may rest on the upper recessed surface of the screw  712  and/or a supporting ridge of the vaporizer  714 . The vaporizer  714  is configured to move with the lower pod case  718 . As a result, a rotation of the lower pod case  718  to move the lower pod case  718  will also move the vaporizer  714  (and the insert  716 ) with it. The size and shape of the central opening in the screw  712  is configured to permit the vaporizer  714  to move reversibly therein. 
       FIG. 28A  is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 26  when assembled and after actuation.  FIG. 28B  is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 26  when assembled and after actuation.  FIG. 28C  is a tilted and angled cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 26  when assembled and after actuation. Referring to  FIG. 28A ,  FIG. 28B , and  FIG. 28C , the pod assembly  702  may be actuated by holding the upper pod case  704  and rotating the lower pod case  718  relative to the upper pod case  704 . In such an instance, as a result of the rotation, the lower pod case  718  will travel along the threads of the screw  712  until the lower pod case  718  is adjacent to or abutting the undersurface of the screw  712 . Conversely, the pod assembly  702  may be actuated by holding the lower pod case  718  and rotating the upper pod case  704  relative to the lower pod case  718 . In such an instance, as a result of the rotation, the screw  712  will move into the lower pod case  718  until the undersurface of the screw  712  is adjacent to or abutting the lower pod case  718 . 
     The pod assembly  702  may be configured such that the lower pod case  718  (or, conversely, the upper pod case  704 ) undergoes a 360 degree rotation to actuate the pod assembly  702 . However, it should be understood that example embodiments are not limited thereto. For instance, the pod assembly  702  may be designed such that only a 180 degree rotation is needed for actuation. After the requisite rotation is performed, the upper pod case  704  will be adjacent to and aligned with the lower pod case  718  so as to result in a pod assembly  702  with relatively continuous front, side, and rear surfaces and, thus, a more compact form than the longer, unactuated state shown in  FIG. 27A  and  FIG. 27B . 
     When the lower pod case  718  (or, conversely, the upper pod case  704 ) is rotated, the vaporizer  714  will move into the upper pod case  704 . As a result, the blade  710  will also be axially displaced so as to be pushed into the upper pod case  704  by the supporting ridge of the vaporizer  714  so as to pierce and cut the foil  707 , thereby releasing the pre-vapor formulation from the reservoir. The inner side wall of the upper portion of the screw  712  (within which the blade  710  is seated) may act as a guide for the axial displacement of the blade  710 . The upper portion of the vaporizer  714  is configured to extend into the vapor channel within the upper pod case  704  in a snug fit manner. 
     In an example embodiment, the pod assembly  702  may be configured to produce an audible sound (e.g., click) to indicate to the adult vaper that the requisite amount of rotation has occurred and, thus, that the blade  710  has been pushed sufficiently inward for actuation. The pod assembly  702  may also be configured such that the upper pod case  704  and the lower pod case  718  will be locked in place so as to not rotate after actuation. For instance, the audible sound may coincide with the locking feature wherein both may be effectuated by a snap-fit type structure that is configured for rotational engagement. 
     During the actuation of the pod assembly  702 , the blade  710  will pierce and cut the foil  707  so as to release the pre-vapor formulation from the reservoir. Additionally, the foil folder  708  folds the foil  707  back after (or concurrently with) the piercing and cutting by the blade  710 . Furthermore, because of the snug fit of the vaporizer  714  with the upper pod case  704 , the possibility of the released pre-vapor formulation leaking from the reservoir directly into the vapor channel after actuation can be reduced or prevented. The pod assembly  702  may be configured such that the pre-vapor formulation released from the reservoir will flow into the vaporizer  714  via a side opening. The vaporizer  714  includes a heater that will be in thermal and/or fluidic communication with the pre-vapor formulation after the pod assembly  702  is actuated. During vaping, the vaporizer  714  will be activated to heat the pre-vapor formulation to generate a vapor that will be drawn through the vapor channel of the upper pod case  704  when a negative pressure is applied to the mouthpiece of the e-vapor device. 
       FIG. 29  is an exploded view of another pod assembly of an e-vapor apparatus according to an example embodiment. Referring to  FIG. 29 , a twist and return mechanism is employed to actuate the pod assembly  802  prior to use. In an example embodiment, the pod assembly  802  includes an upper pod case  804 , a foil holder  806 , a foil  807 , a cutter  808 , a screw  810 , a vaporizer  812 , a brace  814 , an O-ring  816 , and a lower pod case  818 . 
     The pod assembly  802  is configured to store a pre-vapor formulation within an internal, hermetically-sealed compartment so as to isolate the pre-vapor formulation from other internal elements until the pod assembly  802  is actuated for vaping. Because the pre-vapor formulation is isolated from the environment as well as the internal elements of the pod assembly  802  that may potentially react with the pre-vapor formulation, the possibility of adverse effects to the shelf-life and/or sensorial characteristics (e.g., flavor) of the pre-vapor formulation may be reduced or prevented. The internal, hermetically-sealed compartment within the pod assembly  802  may be a reservoir defined by the upper pod case  804 , the foil holder  806 , and the foil  807 . In an example embodiment, the pod assembly  802  may be configured such that the foil  807  is integrated with the foil holder  806  for sealing the reservoir. Alternatively, the foil  807  may be included in the pod assembly  802  as a structure that is separate from the foil holder  806 . 
     The cutter  808  is configured to pierce and cut the foil  807  in order to release the pre-vapor formulation from the reservoir during the actuation of the pod assembly  802 . To effectuate the piercing and cutting, the cutter  808  may include a puncturing/perforating element that protrudes from its outer side wall. For instance, the puncturing/perforating element may be a pair of serrated structures arranged on opposite sides of the outer side wall of the cutter  808 . However, it should be understood that example embodiments are not limited thereto. 
     When assembled, the vaporizer  812  will extend through the cutter  808 , and both structures will be between the foil holder  806  and the screw  810 . The cutter  808  is configured to be threadedly engaged with the screw  810 . The brace  814  is configured to engage with a bottom section of the foil holder  806 . The engagement of the brace  814  with the foil holder  806  may be achieved via a snap-fit connection, a friction fit connection, an adhesive, or other suitable coupling technique. The outer diameter of the rim of the screw  810  is larger than the diameter of the opening in the brace  814  due to the presence of the lip on the screw  810 . The screw  810  is configured to be seated within the lower pod case  818 . In an example embodiment, the bottom of the screw  810  includes a ridge structure that is received within a groove in the lower pod case  818 . As a result, a rotation of the lower pod case  818  will cause the screw  810  to also rotate. In this regard, in addition to the groove/ridge structure example above, it should be understood that other suitable options may be employed to engage the screw  810  with the lower pod case  818 . 
       FIG. 30A  is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 29  when assembled and before actuation.  FIG. 30B  is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 29  when assembled and before actuation.  FIG. 30C  is a tilted and angled cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 29  when assembled and before actuation. Referring to  FIG. 30A ,  FIG. 30B , and  FIG. 30C , the upper pod case  804  is configured to connect with the foil holder  806 . The foil  807  is secured to each of the angled faces of the foil holder  806  so as to cover the openings in the angled faces. The foil  807  is designed to hermetically seal the reservoir until the pod assembly  802  is actuated. The vaporizer  812  extends through the cutter  808  and the foil holder  806  such that a tip portion of the vaporizer  812  protrudes into a vapor channel within the upper pod case  804 . The cutter  808  is threadedly engaged with the screw  810 , and the screw  810  is seated within the lower pod case  818 . The threaded engagement between the cutter  808  and the screw  810  may be configured such that the cutter  808  will move upwards towards the upper pod case  804  when the screw  810  is rotated (via the lower pod case  818 ) in a first direction. Conversely, in such an example embodiment, the threaded engagement may be configured such that the cutter  808  will move downwards to its original position and, thus, towards the lower pod case  818  when the screw  810  is rotated (via the lower pod case  818 ) in an opposite second direction. 
     When the pod assembly  802  is in an unactuated (or resealed) state, as shown in  FIG. 30A ,  FIG. 30B , and  FIG. 30C , the cutter  808  will be adjacent to or abutting the bottom of the inner, recessed surface of the screw  810 . In this unactuated state, a side opening in the vaporizer  812  (through which a pre-vapor formulation will enter after actuation) will be covered by the cutter  808 . In an example embodiment, the inner surface of the cutter  808  may also be lined with a film or layer (e.g., silicone film) that is impervious to pre-vapor formulation in order to help close the side opening of the vaporizer  812  when entry of the pre-vapor formulation is not desired, such as when the pod assembly  802  has been resealed after actuation (which will be subsequently discussed in further detail). 
     The pod assembly  802  may be actuated by holding the upper pod case  804  and rotating the lower pod case  818  relative to the upper pod case  804 . Alternatively, the pod assembly  802  may be actuated by holding the lower pod case  818  and rotating the upper pod case  804  relative to the lower pod case  818 . In addition, the pod assembly  802  may be configured such that the lower pod case  818  (or, alternatively, the upper pod case  804 ) undergoes a 360 degree rotation to actuate the pod assembly  802 . However, it should be understood that example embodiments are not limited thereto. For instance, the pod assembly  802  may be designed such that only a 180 degree rotation is needed for actuation. During actuation, the above-discussed rotation will cause the cutter  808  to move upwards so as to pierce and cut the foil  807  covering each of the openings in the angled faces of the foil holder  806 , which will thereby release the pre-vapor formulation from the reservoir. 
       FIG. 31A  is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 29  when assembled and after actuation.  FIG. 31B  is a tilted cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 29  when assembled and after actuation.  FIG. 31C  is a tilted and angled cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 29  when assembled and after actuation. Referring to  FIG. 31A ,  FIG. 31B , and  FIG. 31C , when the pod assembly  802  is in an actuated state, the cutter  808  will be adjacent to or abutting the underside of the foil holder  806 . As a result, the puncturing/perforating elements on the outer side wall of the cutter  808  will protrude through the openings in the angled faces of the foil holder  806 , thereby piercing and cutting the associated foils  807  so as to release the pre-vapor formulation from the reservoir. In addition, the side opening in the vaporizer  812  will be aligned with a side opening in the cutter  808  to permit the entry of the pre-vapor formulation released from the reservoir into the vaporizer  812  via the aligned side openings. The vaporizer  812  includes a heater that will be in thermal and/or fluidic communication with the released pre-vapor formulation after the pod assembly  802  is actuated. During vaping, the vaporizer  812  will be activated to heat the pre-vapor formulation to generate a vapor that will be drawn through the vapor channel of the upper pod case  804  when a negative pressure is applied to the mouthpiece of the e-vapor device. 
     The actuated pod assembly  802  may also be switched from being open ( FIG. 31A ,  FIG. 31B , and  FIG. 31C ) back to being closed ( FIG. 30A ,  FIG. 30B , and  FIG. 30C ) by changing the position of the cutter  808 . In this context, the term “open” should be understood to mean a state where the side opening of the vaporizer  812  is not covered by the cutter  808 . In contrast, the term “closed” should be understood to mean a state where the side opening of the vaporizer  812  is covered/resealed. The pod assembly  802  may be closed by moving the cutter  808  back down to its original position to cover/reseal the side opening of the vaporizer  812 . The return of the cutter  808  to its original position (towards the lower pod case  818 ) can be effectuated by rotating the screw  810  (via the lower pod case  818 ) in the opposite second direction to thereby cover/reseal the side opening of the vaporizer  812 . The cutter  808  may be regarded as a shuttle-type structure due to its ability to move up and down in order to switch the pod assembly  802  from being closed to being open or vice versa. When resealed, the entry of further pre-vapor formulation into the vaporizer  812  may be precluded. As a result, the pod assembly  802  can be stored with a reduced risk of leakage. 
       FIG. 32  is an exploded view of another pod assembly of an e-vapor apparatus according to an example embodiment. Referring to  FIG. 32 , the pod assembly  902  has a simplified pod construction. In an example embodiment, the pod assembly  902  includes an upper pod case  904 , a vaporizer assembly  906 , a seal  908 , a lower pod case  910 , electrode section  912 , a connector case  914 , an air flow sensor  916 , a printed circuit board (PCB)  918 , a data pin connector  920 , and data pins  922 . The electrode section  912  and the data pins  922  may be formed of beryllium copper (BeCu). The connector case  914  and the data pin connector  920  may be formed of polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). The air flow sensor  916  may be a flow sensor, and the flow sensor may be formed of a nickel-iron alloy. The electrode section  912 , connector case  914 , air flow sensor  916 , printed circuit board (PCB)  918 , data pin connector  920 , and data pins  922  for the electrical connector assembly  622 . 
     The electrode section  912  includes an anode electrode  2335   1  and a cathode electrode  2335   2 . Each of the anode electrode  2335   1  and the cathode electrode  2335   2  are photo-etched or stamped from sheet metal, then pressed/folded around a tool or die to create the structure shown in  FIGS. 32 and 35A-35D . The anode electrode  2335   1  and the cathode electrode  2335   2  are described in greater detail below with respect to  FIGS. 35A-35F . 
       FIG. 33  is a cross-sectional view of the pod assembly of  FIG. 32  when assembled. Referring to  FIG. 33 , the pod assembly  902  includes an upper pod case  904  that is configured to connect with the lower pod case  910  via the seal  908 . The pod assembly  902  is configured such that a pre-vapor formulation stored therein is already in thermal and/or fluidic communication with a heater within the vaporizer assembly  906 . As a result, no actuation is needed to internally release the pre-vapor formulation prior to inserting the pod assembly  902  into a dispensing body of an e-vapor device. However, it should be understood that the other internal elements of the pod assembly  902  (e.g., electronics) may be isolated from the pre-vapor formulation by virtue of at least the seal  908 . The sector of the pod assembly  902  above the seal  908  may be regarded as the pre-vapor formulation compartment, while the sector of the pod assembly  902  below the seal  908  may be regarded as the device compartment. During vaping, a heater within the vaporizer assembly  906  will be activated to heat the pre-vapor formulation to generate a vapor that will be drawn through the vapor channel of the upper pod case  904  when a negative pressure is applied to the mouthpiece of the e-vapor device. 
       FIG. 34  is a partial view of an e-vapor apparatus with the pod assembly of  FIG. 33  inserted in a dispensing body according to an example embodiment. Referring to  FIG. 34 , the pod assembly  902  may be held within the dispensing body  924  in a variety of ways. In an example embodiment, a mouthpiece seal may secure a top portion of the pod assembly  902 , while an electrical connector may secure a bottom portion of the pod assembly  902  and act as an electrical interface between the pod assembly  902  and the dispensing body  924 . The mouthpiece seal may be formed of silicone and acts as a vapor interface between the vapor channel of the pod assembly  902  and the vapor passage of the dispensing body  924  so as to facilitate a delivery of the vapor through the vapor passage of the dispensing body  924  when a negative pressure is applied to the mouthpiece. 
     The mouthpiece of the dispensing body  924  may have different parts and configurations for aesthetic reasons (e.g., outer piece to complement the look and feel of the e-vapor device) and/or for functional reasons (e.g., inner piece to adjust the temperature of the vapor and/or to reduce the turbulence of the vapor). Thus, a number of different mouthpieces may be utilized with the e-vapor device depending on the preferences of an adult vaper. In this regard, the mouthpiece is designed to be removable and interchangeable (e.g., via a bayonet connection). Alternative configurations for the mouthpiece are disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 29/575,895, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In addition, alternative configurations for the dispensing body are disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 29/575,887, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Alternative configurations for the pod assembly are also disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 29/575,881, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, alternative configurations for the overall e-vapor device are disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 29/575,883, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Based on the present teachings and although not necessarily set forth expressly herein, it should be appreciated that various features and combinations from one embodiment may be suitable and applicable for other embodiments depending on the desired effects provided by such features and combinations. 
       FIG. 35A  illustrates a front view of an example embodiment of a pod system having a connector assembly to provide the electrical/data interface with the pod and the dispensing body.  FIG. 35B  illustrates a perspective view of the connector assembly shown in  FIG. 35A . 
     As shown in  FIG. 35A , the electrical connector assembly  622  is located within a receiving area  2310  of the pod system. The electrical connector assembly  622  is connected to the vaporizer assembly  906 , as will be discussed in further detail below. 
     Referring to  FIG. 35B , the electrical connector assembly  622  includes a plurality of blade-shaped contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6  and two power contacts  2330   1 - 2330   2 . The plurality of blade-shaped contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6  and the two power contacts  2330   1 - 2330   2  are mounted on a receptacle  2340  of the electrical connector assembly  622 . 
     The receptacle  2340  is formed by the electrode section  912 , the connector case  914  and the data pin connector  920 . The connector case  914  has four side surfaces  2346   1 - 2346   4  that form a square shape. The data pin connector  920  is mounted to one open end of the square to create of first (e.g., front) surface  2342   1  of the receptacle  2340  and the electrode section  912  is mounted to the other open end of the square to create a second (e.g., back) surface  2342   2  of the receptacle  2340 . The data pin connector  920  is attached to the connector case  914  by an ultrasonic weld. 
     The blade-shaped contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6  protrude through the first surface (front surface)  2342   1  of the receptacle  2340  and are interference fit into the receptacle, thereby achieving a seal. The blade-shaped contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6  receive and transmit digital and analog data signals to/from the dispensing body  3700  (shown in  FIG. 37 ). The blade-shaped contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6  are evenly spaced and may be the same shape. In an example embodiment, the blade-shaped contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6  have a thickness of 0.2 mm, protrude from the connector case  914  by about 2.1 mm, extend into the connector case by 1 mm (as shown by a cantilever portion  2320   1F  in  FIG. 37C ), and extend 3 mm along the connector case  914 . Cantilever portions  2320   1F - 2320   6F  of the blade-shaped contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6 , respectively, extend into the PCB  918 , as shown in  FIG. 35D . 
     While six blade-shaped contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6  are illustrated, example embodiments are not limited thereto. Each blade-shaped contact has a different function. Thus, the number of blade-shaped contacts is based on the functions of the pod system. For example, additional blade-shaped contacts may be added to increase the quality of a measured voltage of the vaporizer assembly  906 . 
     In the example shown in  FIG. 35B , the blade-shaped contacts  2320   1 - 2320   3  are dedicated to digital communications of the pod system, the blade-shaped contact  2320   4  is dedicated to common ground and the blade-shaped contacts  2320   5 - 2320   6  are dedicated to an analog input and output of a hot-wire flow sensor. More specifically, the blade-shaped contacts  2320   1 - 2320   3  communicate with a programmable read-only memory (PROM) in the pod system using the inter-integrated circuit (I2C) interface (e.g., digital power, I2C clock and I2C data, respectively) and the blade-shaped contacts  2320   5 - 2320   6  are dedicated to a power supply of the hot-wire air flow sensor and output of a hot-wire flow sensor. 
     The electrode section  912  includes the two power contacts  2330   1 - 2330   2  which are parts of anode and cathode electrodes  2335   1 - 2335   2 , respectively. The anode and cathode electrodes  2335   1 - 2335   2  may be made of copper-beryllium (CuBe), copper-titanium or another material that provides a spring force, low resistance and compliance under force (to reduce contact resistance). The two power contacts  2330   1 - 2330   2  are arranged such that they form a circuit from the dispensing body  3700 , to the cathode electrode  2335   2 , to the vaporizer assembly  906 , to the anode electrode  2335   1  and back to the dispensing body  3700 , when current is supplied to the vaporizer assembly  906 . 
     The anode and cathode electrodes  2335   1 - 2335   2  are mounted to the connector case  914  using a spring force. More specifically, when the anode and cathode electrodes  2335   1 - 2335   2  are mounted to the connector case  914 , spring forces of the anode and cathode electrodes  2335   1 - 2335   2  cause protrusions  2337  and  2336  of the connector case  914  to be inserted in holes of the anode and cathode electrodes  2335   1 - 2335   2 , respectively. It should be understood, that protrusions are also located on an opposing side of the connector case  914  such that a similar connection of holes of the anode and cathode electrodes  2335   1 - 2335   2  and protrusions of the connector case  914  exists. 
     Each of the two power contacts  2330   1 - 2330   2  extend in parallel from a first side  2344   1  over the first surface  2342  to a middle portion of the first surface  2342 . The power contacts  2330   1 - 2330   2  each have flat portions  2330   1F ,  2330   2 F that are parallel to the first surface  2342   1  and semi-circular portions  2330   1E ,  2330   2E  that extend away from the first surface  2342   1 . 
     The semi-circular portions  2330   1E ,  2330   2E  are designed to reduce contact resistance. Contact resistance is determined by a combination of force, surface area, and compliance of material. The half cylinder shape of the semi-circular portions  2330   1E ,  2330   2E  provides a contact area along a width of the tangent. 
     As shown in  FIG. 35C , the cathode electrode  2335   2  extends over the side surface  2346   1  and defines the back surface  2342   2 . The portion of the cathode electrode  2335   2  that defines the back surface  2342   2  is attached to the side surfaces  2346   1 - 2346   4 . 
     The portion of the cathode electrode  2335   2  that defines the back surface  2342   2  defines a circle  2348  there through with arms  2350  projecting from the circle  2348 . The circle  2348  is shaped to receive the vaporizer assembly  906 . The arms  2350  are spring fingers such that the vaporizer assembly  906  can be inserted into the connector case  914  and the electrical connector assembly  622 . The arms  2350  mechanically hold the vaporizer assembly  906 , and minimize assembly time compared with screwing on a thread. Moreover, the arms  2350  provide a downwards force on the vaporizer assembly  906  to ensure good contact with a portion  2335   1BINT  (shown in  FIG. 35D ). 
       FIG. 35D  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the receptacle  2340  along the plane A (shown in  FIG. 35C ). The electrode  2335   1  continuously extends along a portion of the side  2346   1 , along a length of the side  2346   3  and along a portion of the side  2346   4 . The electrode  2335   1  may also extend the entire depth d of the side  2346   1 , the side  2346   3  and the side  2346   4  or only a portion of the depth. 
     As shown, an interior of the receptacle  2340  includes the PCB  918 . The blade-shaped data contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6  are attached to the PCB  918  by soldering. In another example embodiment, the blade-shaped data contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6  may be insert molded to the data pin connector  920 , as opposed to interference fitted. 
     The electrode  2335   1  also includes a bridge portion  2335   1B  that extends from the side  2346   3  to the side  2346   2 . The electrode  2335   1  is over-bent during forming creating a spring-force to hold the electrode  2335   1  to the connector case  914 . More specifically, the sides  2346   3  and  2346   2  include notches N 1  and N 2 , respectively. The notches N 1  and N 2  are aligned such that the bridge portion  2335   1B  is substantially normal to both sides  2346   3  and  2346   2 . The bridge portion  2335   1B  includes portions  2335   1BEXT  that extend over the notches N 1 , N 2  as well as the portion  2335   1BINT  that extends into an interior of the receptacle and runs parallel to the PCB  918 . The portion  2335   1BINT  is designed to maximize/have a desired contact area of a flat surface of the vaporizer assembly  906 . 
     The air flow sensor  916 , PROM memory  2356  and resistors  2358 ,  2359  are mounted on the PCB  918 . The PROM memory  2356  may act as an authentication device such as described with reference to  FIGS. 21-22 . For example, the PROM memory  2356  may store the data stored by the non-volatile memory  2205   b  in  FIG. 22 . 
     The air flow sensor  916  is positioned adjacent a U-shaped notch in the side surface  2346   4  of the connector case  914 . As shown in  FIG. 35D , the electrodes  2335   1  and  2335   2  include grooved portions  2362  and  2364  that align with halves of the U-shaped notch, respectively, thereby providing an air flow passage into the interior of the receptacle  2340 . The air flow sensor  916  may be a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) flow sensor or another type of sensor configured to measure air flow. 
       FIG. 35E  illustrates the electrical connections of the air flow sensor, PROM and blade-shaped data contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6 . As shown in  FIG. 35E , the data contact  2320   2  provides a clock signal AUTH_SCL to the PROM  2356 . The data contact  2320   3  permits transmission of an input/output data signal AUTH_SDA to the PROM  2356 . The pull up resistor  2358  is connected between the data contact  2320   3  and the PROM  2356 . The data contact  2320   5  provides power HW_POWER to the air flow sensor  916 . The data contact  2320   6  receives an output HW_SIGNAL of the air flow sensor  916 . The resistor  2359  is connected between an input terminal of the power HW_POWER and an output terminal of the output HW_SIGNAL. 
       FIG. 35F  illustrates a cross sectional view of the pod assembly  902  including the vaporizer assembly  906  and the electrical connector assembly  622 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 35F , the vaporizer assembly  906  includes an anode portion  2370  and a cathode portion  2372 . 
     The anode portion  2370  contacts the anode electrode  2335   1  and the cathode portion  2372  contacts the cathode electrode  2335   2 . 
     To receive power (e.g., from the power supply  2110  as previously described with reference to  FIGS. 21-22 ), a heater  3510  is attached to the cathode portion  2372  and the anode portion  2370 . The heater  3510  is connected to the cathode portion  2372  by a first end of a wire  3512  and the heater  3510  is connected to the anode portion  2370  by a second end of the wire  3514 . The anode portion  2370  extends into a section of the cathode portion  2372 , but it is physically separated from the cathode portion  2372  by an electrical insulator  2374 . The electrical insulator  2374  is a silicon gasket which provides insulation between current carrying metal parts of the vaporizer assembly  906  and provides a force on the first and second ends  3512  and  3514  to ensure a reliable connection between the wires. 
     The heater  3510  is illustrated as a coil wrapped around a wick  3528 . However, the heater  3510  may be the same as the features described with respect to the heater  2215 . Thus, for the sake of brevity, a description thereof is omitted. 
     The first end  3512  is located between the electrical insulator  2374  and the cathode portion  2372 . The second end  3514  is located between the electrical insulator  2374  and the anode portion  2370 . The first end  3512  and the second end  3514  may be connected to the cathode portion  2372  and the anode portion  2370 , respectively, by, for example, spot welding or soldering. It should be understood that connections should not be limited to soldering or spot welding. Where soldering is used, welding may be used instead and vice versa. 
       FIG. 36  illustrates another example embodiment of an electrical connector assembly having the blade-shaped data contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6 . An electrical connector assembly  3600  is the same as the electrical connector assembly  622  except power contacts  2630   1  and  2630   2  are shaped differently than the contacts  2330   1  and  2330   2 . Moreover, a data pin connector  920   a  has notches  2635   1  and  2635   2  on one side. The power contacts  2630   1  and  2630   2  are in the notches  2635   1  and  2635   2 , respectively. 
       FIG. 37A  illustrates a dispensing body  3700  of an e-vaping device including an electrical connector assembly  3710  (electrical connector). The electrical connector assembly  3710  is configured to be connected to the electrical connector assembly  622  shown in  FIGS. 35A-35F . 
     As shown in  FIG. 37A , electrical connector assembly  3710  is located within a receiving area  3720  of the dispensing device. The connector assembly  3710  is connected to a PCB  3775 , as will be discussed in further detail below. A sealing gasket may be between the electrical connector assembly  3710  and an outer boundary of the receiving area  3720 . Alternatively, the electrical connector assembly  3710  may be interference fit within the receiving area  3720 , ultrasonically welded to the receiving area  3720  or chemically welded. In another example embodiment, the electrical connector assembly  3710  and the receiving area  3720  may be a single part. 
     A bezel  3712  is shaped such that a pod assembly (e.g., shown in  FIG. 35A ) is held in a single orientation within tolerance of the electrical connector assemblies  622  and  3710 . 
       FIG. 37B  illustrates a perspective view of the electrical connector assembly  3710 . The electrical connector assembly  3710  includes a body  3715 , two power contacts  3725   1 - 3725   2  (anode and cathode, respectively) and data contacts  3732   1 - 3732   6 . 
     The body  3715  is made by injection molding and is made of plastic. The body  3715  includes receiving slots  3730   1 - 3730   6  for holding the data contacts  3732   1 - 3732   6 , mounting arms  3735   1 - 3735   2  and receiving areas  3737   1 - 3737   2 . Each of the mounting arms  3735   1  and  3735   2  extend from opposite sides of the body  3715  and define holes therethrough to receive fasteners to attach the connector assembly  3710  to the PCB  3775 . 
     Each of the slots  3730   1 - 3730   6  extends from a top side  3740  of the body  3715  to a middle portion of a height h of the body  3715 . The slots  3730   1 - 3730   6  are open on the top side  3740  and on a front face  3742  of the body  3715 . Each of the slots  3730   1 - 3730   6  is defined by at least two internal walls of the body  3715 . For example, the slot  3730   1  is defined by the walls  3744   a  and  3744   b , with the slot  3730   1  being therebetween. Mounted on one of the defining walls for each slot is a data contact  3732   1 - 3732   6 . For example, the data contact  3732   1  is mounted on the wall  3744   b . The slots  3730   1 - 3730   6  are spaced and the data contacts  3732   1 - 3732   6  are mounted such that the slots  3730   1 - 3730   6  can receive the data contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6 , respectively, simultaneously, and the data contacts  3732   1 - 3732   6  can contact the blade contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6 , respectively. The data contacts  3732   1 - 3732   6  are photo-etched or stamped, pre-formed and heat-treated to give the data contacts certain mechanical properties such as a spring force. The data contacts  3732   1 - 3732   6  are retained in the slots  3730   1 - 3730   6 , respectively, using barbs  3754  (shown in  FIG. 37C ). 
     The body  3715  further includes the receiving areas  3737   1 - 3737   2  at the front face  3742 . The receiving areas  3737   1 - 3737   2  are two notched out areas of the front face  3742  that are separated from each other by a wall  3745 . The receiving areas  3737   1 - 3737   2  are spaced from sides  3746  and  3747 , respectively, of the body  3715  and extend to the wall  3745  which is located at a middle of a width w (excluding the mounting arms  3735   1 - 3735   2 ) of the body  3715 . 
     Within the receiving areas  3737   1 - 3737   2  are protruding ledges  3750   1  and  3750   2 . The protruding ledge  3750   1  is more clearly shown in  FIG. 37C . 
     As shown in  FIG. 37C , the power contact  3725   1  wraps around all three sides of the protruding ledge  3750   1  (three sides within the receiving area  3737   1 ). The power contact  3725   1  further extends from the ledge  3750   1  through an elongated internal gap  3752  of the body  3715 . The power contact  3725   1  extends out of the body  3715 , from behind the receiving area  3737   1 , and through the PCB  3775  in a direction normal to the gap  3752 . Each power contact  3725   1  and  3725   2  includes two pin contacts. As shown in  FIG. 37F , the power contact  3725   1  includes pin contacts  3725   1A  and  3725   1B . While only the power contact  3725   1  is shown in  FIG. 37F , it should be understood that the power contact  3725   2  has the same shape. 
     The power contacts  3725   1  and  3725   2  are through-hole soldered to the PCB  3775 . Each of the power contacts  3725   1  and  3725   2  is split into two pin contacts (e.g.,  3725   1A  and  3725   1B ) to reduce a resistance of the solder joint and increase current carrying capability. 
     Referring still to  FIG. 37C , the connector assembly  3710  is mounted on a first side  3778  of the PCB  3775  by fasteners  3780  that extend through the holes  3735   1 - 3735   2  of the body  3715  and through the PCB  3775 . The PCB  2775  may have at least some of the components illustrated in  FIG. 21  mounted thereon including the controller  2105  and the power supply  2110 . 
     Moreover, the data contacts  3732   1 - 3732   6  also extend through the PCB  3775 . 
       FIG. 37D  illustrates the connection between the electrical connector assembly  622  and the connector assembly  3710  shown in  FIG. 37C . The bezel  3712  is shaped such that the pod assembly will be held in a single orientation, within the tolerance of the electrical connector assemblies  622  and  3710 . 
     The device data contacts  3732   1 - 3732   6  would interfere with the pod data contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6  in their natural/relaxed position. As a result, the device data contacts  3732   1 - 3732   6  are compressed against their spring force when the electrical connector assemblies  622  and  3710  are connected. This spring force applies pressure on the pod data contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6 , ensuring a robust connection. 
     The device power contacts  3725   1  and  3725   2  and pod power contacts  2330   1  and  2330   2  are connected in a similar manner (i.e., the spring force of pod power contacts  2330   1  and  2330   2  applies pressure on the device power contacts  3725   1  and  3725   2 ). 
     The data contacts  3732   1 - 3732   6  are recessed in the body  3715  to help prevent a short circuit. 
       FIG. 37E  illustrates a perspective view of the electrical connector assembly  622  and the electrical connector assembly  3710  connected (e.g., providing a connection between interfaces  2120  and  2210 ). 
       FIG. 38A  illustrates a front view of an example embodiment of a pod system having a connector assembly to provide the electrical/data interface with the pod and the dispensing body.  FIGS. 38B-38C  illustrate exploded views of the connector assembly and the vaporizer assembly. 
     As shown in  FIG. 38A , a pod assembly  3800  includes a triangular shaped groove  3805  and a connector assembly  3810 . The triangular shaped groove  3805  may be on at least two sides of the pod assembly  3800 . The connector assembly  3810  is exposed such that a connector assembly (e.g., pogo pins) from the dispensing body can contact the connector assembly  3810 , supply power to the pod assembly  3800  and communicate data with the dispensing body. 
     The connector assembly includes a first power contact  3815 , a second power contact  3820 , a PCB  3830  (including an exposed section  3825 ) and data communication pads  3835 . 
     On the surface of the PCB  3830  exposed to the dispensing body, the exposed section  3825  is between the first power contact  3815  and the second power contact  3820 . Similarly, portions of the first power contact  3815  and the second power contact  3820  that are exposed to the dispensing body are flat and rectangular in shape with the longitudinal axes being normal to a longitudinal axis of the pod assembly  3800 . The first power contact  3815  and the second power contact  3820  are folded onto the PCB  3830  as will be described in greater detail below. The first power contact  3815  is part of an anode electrode  3836  and the second power contact  3820  is part of a cathode electrode  3837 , shown in  FIGS. 38B-38C . 
     The data communication pads  3835  are printed on the PCB  3830  and are configured to permit digital and analog communications between the pod assembly  3800  and the dispensing body. The data communication pads  3835  may be made of copper. However, another conductive material may be used instead of copper. While six data communication pads  3835  are illustrated, it should be understood that more or less than six data communication pads  3835  may be used. 
       FIGS. 38B-38C  illustrate exploded views of the connector assembly and the vaporizer assembly from different sides. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 38B-38C , the first power contact  3815  is folded around the PCB  3830  to reduce the number of contact points and avoid the use of vias in the PCB  3830  to connect the PCB  3830  with the first power contact  3815 . 
     The electrode  3837  includes the second power contact  3820 , two arms  3840 ,  3842  that extend from opposing sides of the PCB  3830  and a back plate section  3856 . The back plate section  3856  connects the arms  3840 ,  3842 . The second power contact  3820  is connected to the arm  3840  by two links  3844 - 3845 . The links  3844 - 3845  wrap the electrode  3837  around a corner  3850  of the PCB  3830  such that the arm  3840  and the second power contact  3820  are substantially normal. 
     The electrode  3837  may be made of copper-beryllium (CuBe) or copper-titanium, for example and is photo-etched or stamped from sheet metal, then pressed/folded around a tool or die to create the structure shown in  FIGS. 38B-38C . 
     The arm  3840  includes a rectangular shaped portion  3852  that extends from the PCB  3830  to a tapered portion  3854  of the arm  3840 . The tapered portion  3854  has an increasing width from the rectangular shaped portion  3852  to the back plate section  3856 . 
     The back plate section  3856  defines a circle  3858  there through with arms  3860  projecting from the circle  3858 . The circle  3858  is shaped to receive a first cylindrical portion  3862  of the vaporizer assembly  906  such that a first end  3864  of the cylindrical portion  3862  contacts the electrode  3836 . As shown, the first end  3864  includes a groove  3865  to allow air to enter the vaporizer assembly  906  when the first end  3864  contacts the electrode  3836 . 
     The circle  3858  may have a radius of 3.25 millimeters, each arm  3860  may have a radius of 0.75 millimeters. 
     A second cylindrical portion  3866  of the vaporizer assembly  906  has a diameter greater than the first cylindrical portion  3862  and contacts the electrode  3837  when the first cylindrical portion  3862  contacts the electrode  3836 , thereby forming an electrical circuit between the dispensing body (e.g.,  3900  in  FIG. 39A ), the electrode  3836 , the vaporizer assembly  906  and the electrode  3837  when current is supplied from the power supply  2110  to the vaporizer assembly  906 . 
       FIG. 39A  illustrates an example embodiment of a dispensing body  3900  for receiving the pod assembly  3800 . 
     As shown, the dispensing body  3900  includes a bezel  3905  having four internal walls  3905   1 - 3905   4  that defining a receiving area for the pod assembly  3800 . Within at least one of the walls  3905   1 - 3905   4  is a triangular wedge  3910  that is designed to fit within the triangular shaped groove  3805  when the pod assembly  3800  is inserted into the receiving area for the pod assembly  3800 . 
     The bezel  3905  is an injection molded part and the wedge  3910  is free to move. The injection molding process and plastic material create allow the wedge to move as shown in  FIG. 39A . In another example embodiment, a mechanical spring could be added behind the wedge  3910 . 
     Within another internal wall is a connector assembly  3915  for connecting with the connector assembly  3810  of the pod assembly  3800 . 
       FIGS. 39B-39C  illustrate more detailed views of the connector assembly  3915  shown in  FIG. 39A . 
     As shown in  FIG. 39B , the connector assembly  3915  includes a base  3920  and a PCB  3925 . 
     A plurality of pogo pins  3930  and  3935  protruding through holes  3927  of the base  3920 . The base  3920  is made of plastic and the holes  3927  aid in aligning the pogo pins  3930  and  3935  and protecting the pogo pins  3920  and  3925  from shearing when the pod assembly  3800  is inserted into the receiving area. 
     The pogo pins  3930   1 - 3930   4  are on outside rows of the pogo pins are aligned to connect with the power contacts  3815  and  3820  (two to connect to the anode and two to connect to the cathode). More specifically, the pogo pins  3930   1 - 3930   2  connect with the first power contact  3815  and the pogo pins  3930   3 - 3930   4  connect with the second power contact  3820 . By having two pogo pins contact each power contact, a resistance of the connection is lowered, thereby by improving the power supplied from the dispensing body  3900  to the pod assembly  3800 . 
     The pogo pins  3935  are between the pogo pins  3930   1 - 3930   4  and are aligned to connect with the data communication pads  3835  and establish an interface for digital and analog communications between the dispensing body  3900  and the pod assembly  3800 . Thus, there may be a same number of pogo pins  3935  as data communication pads  3835 . 
     In an example embodiment, the PCB  3925  may include slots  3940  for receiving latching arms  3945 . Referring to  FIG. 39C , the latching arms  3945  go through the slots  3940  and hold the PCB  3925  to the bezel  3905 . The base  3920  is sandwiched between the PCB  3925  and the bezel  3905 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 39B , a flanged edge  3950  around the base  3920  holds the base  3920  against the bezel  3905  to prevent the base  3920  from falling out of the bezel  3915 . 
     The PCB  3925  may be connected to a main PCB  3775   a  using discrete wires (not shown). The main PCB  3775   a  is the same as the PCB  3775 , shown in  FIG. 37C , except the PCB  3775   a  is connected to the pogo pins  3930   1 - 3930   4  by wires as opposed to electrodes penetrating through the PCB  3775 . 
       FIG. 40  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the electrical connector assembly  3810  and the electrical connector assembly  3915  being connected. 
       FIGS. 41A-41F  illustrate another example embodiment of an electrical connector assembly. An electrical connector assembly  622 ′, shown in  FIG. 41  is similar to the electrical connector assembly  622 , shown in  FIGS. 35A-35F . Thus, for the sake of brevity, only differences between the electrical connector assembly  622 ′ and the electrical connector assembly  622 , will be discussed. 
     In  FIG. 41A , power contacts  2300   1 ′ and  2330   2 ′ (anode and cathode, respectively) are insert molded into a connector case  914 ′, as shown in  FIG. 41B . While  FIG. 41A  does not illustrate the power contacts  2300   1 ′ and  2330   2 ′ being folded over, it should be understood that the power contacts  2300   1 ′ and  2330   2 ′ may be folded over in the same manner as shown in  FIGS. 35A-35B . 
     A data pin connector  920 ′ is ultrasonically welded to the connector case  914 ′. 
     The blade-shaped contacts  2320   1 - 2320   6  are interference fit into the data pin connector  920 . 
     The two power contacts  2330   1′ - 2330   2′  are parts of anode and cathode electrodes  2335   1 ′- 2335   2 ′, respectively. 
       FIG. 41C  illustrates a view of the anode and cathode electrodes  2335   1 ′- 2335   2 ′. As shown in  FIG. 41 , the electrodes  2335   1 ′- 2335   2 ′ include folding sections  2335   1F ,  2335   2F , respectively, to fold over a surface  4105  of the connector case  914 ′ and extend along a surface  2342 ′ in a fashion similar to that shown in  FIG. 35A . 
     The electrode  2335   1 ′ includes a tapered edge  4112  inside of the connector case  914 ′ so as to not cover an air inlet  4113 . Similarly, electrode  2335   2 ′ includes a tapered edge  4115  inside of the connector case  914 ′ so as to not cover the air inlet  4113 . 
     The electrode  2335   1 ′ further includes a bent portion  4120  along a corner  4117  of the connector case  914 ′. An extended portion  4125  extends from the bent portion  4120  along a side  4130  of the connector case  914 ′. Two fingers  4135   1  and  4135   2  protrude from the extended portion  4125  into an interior space  4140  of the connector case  914 ′, as shown in both  FIGS. 41B and 41C . 
     The electrode  2335   2 ′ further includes a bent portion  4145  along a corner  4110  of the connector case  914 ′. An extended portion  4150  extends from the bent portion  4145  along a side  4155  of the connector case  914 ′. The sides  4155  and  4130  are opposite sides of the connector case  914 ′. Two fingers  4160   1  and  4160   2  protrude from the extended portion  4125  into an interior space  4140  of the connector case  914 ′, as shown in both  FIGS. 41B and 41C . 
       FIG. 41D  illustrates a rear view of the electrical connector assembly shown in  FIG. 41A . As shown in  FIG. 41D , the connector case  914 ′ includes a rear side  4170  connected to sides  4130 ,  4155 ,  4175  and  4180 . The rear side  4170 , along with the sides  4130 ,  4155 ,  4175  and  4180  may be single piece of plastic, as opposed to the connector case  914 , shown in  FIGS. 35A-35D . More specifically, the connector case  914 ′ has five side surfaces  4130 ,  4155 ,  4170 ,  4175  and  4180  as opposed to the four sides of the connector case  914 . 
     The rear side  4170  defines a circle  4190  there through. The circle  4190  is shaped to receive the vaporizer assembly  906 . A gasket  4195  is on the rear side  4170 . The gasket  4195  has an inner diameter substantially the same as the diameter of the circle  4190 . The inner diameter of the gasket  4195  is large enough to permit the vaporizer assembly  906  to be inserted into the connector case  914 ′. 
     When the vaporizer assembly  906  is inserted into the connector case  914 ′, an airtight seal is formed between the vaporizer assembly  906  and the connector case  914 ′, with air being permitted to enter the connector case  914 ′ through only the air inlet  4113 . 
       FIG. 41E  illustrates an overhead cross sectional view of a pod assembly including the vaporizer assembly  906  and the electrical connector assembly  622 ′.  FIG. 41F  illustrates another view of the vaporizer assembly  906  connected to the electrical connector assembly  622 ′. 
     The anode portion  2370  contacts the anode electrode  2335   1 ′ and the cathode portion  2372  contacts the cathode electrode  2335   2 ′. More specifically, the cathode portion  2372  contacts the cathode electrode  2335   2 ′ along an interior surface of the side  4155  of the connector case  914 ′ and the anode portion  2370  contacts the anode electrode  2335   1 ′ along an interior surface of the side  4130  of the connector case  914 ′. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 41E-41F , the locations of the connections between the anode portion  2370  and the anode electrode  2335   1 ′ and the cathode portion  2372  and the cathode electrode  2335   2 ′ are different than the locations of the connections between the anode portion  2370  and the anode electrode  2335   1  and the cathode portion  2372  and the cathode electrode  2335   2 , shown in  FIG. 35F . 
     The fingers  4135   1 ,  4135   2  and  4160   1 ,  4160   2  have a spring property that provide a downwards force on opposing portions of the vaporizer assembly  906  and allows the vaporizer assembly  906  to be pushed into contact with the connector case  914 ′ and be held in place. The fingers  4135   1 ,  4135   2  and  4160   1 ,  4160   2  mechanically hold the vaporizer assembly  906 , and minimize assembly time compared with screwing on a thread. 
     As shown in  FIG. 41E , when the air flow sensor  916  detects a negative pressure, air flows from the air inlet  4113  to the heater  3510 , is mixed with the vaporized pre-vapor formulation generated by the heater  3510  to form a flavored vapor. The flavored vapor flows out of the vaporizer assembly  906  through a channel  4205  that extends across opposing ends of the vaporizer assembly  906 . 
     While a number of example embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations may be possible. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.