Phase 15 — Mini-Build: extend mini_vllm

Contents

• Your task
• Why build it (and not just read it)
• Method
• Definition of done

Your task

Model disaggregation in mini_vllm: run a 'prefill engine' that produces KV blocks, serialize the block table + (fake) KV, and hand it to a separate 'decode engine' that continues generation — proving the handoff preserves output.

Why build it (and not just read it)

Reading the real kernel/feature tells you what production does. Re-implementing a tiny version tells you why every decision was made — which is the understanding that survives into an interview or a 2 a.m. incident. Keep it small; keep it tested.

Method

1. Look at the matching real code from 01-deep-dive.md.
2. Add your module under mini_vllm/ (or extend an existing one).
3. Write a test_*.py next to it that pins the behavior you care about.
4. Run pytest mini_vllm -q and keep it green.

Definition of done

• Your component runs on CPU with no extra dependencies (numpy ok).
• A test demonstrates the property this phase is about (not just "it runs").
• You can explain, out loud, how your toy maps to the real implementation and where it intentionally simplifies.

The flagship phases ship complete mini_vllm modules + tests (mini_vllm/block_pool.py, mini_vllm/scheduler.py) — use them as your reference for structure and test style.