from collections.vector import InlinedFixedVector

# Initialize with a specific capacity
vector = InlinedFixedVector[YourType, small_vector_size](capacity)

Overview

The InlinedFixedVector from the collections.vector package is a hybrid vector implementation that combines the benefits of static and dynamic memory allocation. It leverages small-vector optimization for improved performance and memory utilization, particularly beneficial when the vector size is relatively small or when allocation overhead is a concern. Its design is focused on scenarios where the vector's maximum capacity can be determined at runtime, yet a portion of its storage is statically allocated for efficiency.

Key Features

• Small-Vector Optimization: Utilizes statically-allocated storage for initial elements, reducing dynamic memory allocation overhead for small vectors.
• Fixed Maximum Capacity: Supports dynamic memory allocation beyond the small-vector size up to a specified maximum capacity, offering flexibility with bounded memory use.
• Memory Management: Automatically manages memory allocation and deallocation, ensuring efficient use of resources.

Use Cases

• Performance-Critical Applications: Ideal for situations where minimizing memory allocation overhead is crucial, such as real-time systems or high-performance computing.
• Resource-Constrained Environments: Suitable for embedded systems or applications with strict memory usage constraints, where knowing the maximum capacity upfront is possible.
• Complex Data Structures: Can be used as a building block for more complex data structures that benefit from small-vector optimization.

Considerations

• No Automatic Resizing: Unlike standard dynamic vectors, it does not resize beyond the specified maximum capacity, requiring careful capacity planning.
• No Bounds Checking: Does not perform automatic bounds checking, placing the responsibility on the developer to ensure safe access.

Compatibility

• The InlinedFixedVector is designed to be used with any type that fits within its element type constraints, offering broad compatibility with various data types.
• It is part of the collections.vector package, which should be compatible with environments that support this package structure and its underlying memory management model.

This conceptual documentation provides an overview of the InlinedFixedVector, emphasizing its design philosophy, use cases, and key considerations to help developers effectively leverage its capabilities in suitable applications.