On optimal relay placement in directional networks

In this paper, we study the problem of optimal topology design in wireless networks equipped with highly-directional transmission antennas. We use the 1-2-1 network model to characterize the optimal placement of two relays that assist the communication between a source-destination pair. We analytically show that under some conditions on the distance between the source-destination pair, the optimal topology in terms of maximizing the network throughput is to place the relays as close as possible to the source and the destination.