Definition
The architecture of partitioning and replicating vector embeddings and metadata across a cluster of nodes to enable horizontal scaling, high availability, and low-latency retrieval within large-scale RAG systems.
In AI, this refers to sharding vector databases and agent memory, not just general cloud file storage like S3 or Google Drive.
"A massive library where books are split into chapters and stored across multiple specialized annexes, allowing dozens of librarians to fetch parts of the same story simultaneously."
- Vector Sharding(Component)
- Horizontal Scaling(Prerequisite)
- CAP Theorem(Architectural Constraint)
- Stateful Agents(Use Case)
Conceptual Overview
The architecture of partitioning and replicating vector embeddings and metadata across a cluster of nodes to enable horizontal scaling, high availability, and low-latency retrieval within large-scale RAG systems.
Disambiguation
In AI, this refers to sharding vector databases and agent memory, not just general cloud file storage like S3 or Google Drive.
Visual Analog
A massive library where books are split into chapters and stored across multiple specialized annexes, allowing dozens of librarians to fetch parts of the same story simultaneously.