Analysis of dynamic pattern formation in nonlinear Fabry-Perot resonators

We present a detailed analysis of transverse effects and pattern formation in bistable optical elements. The system we investigate consists of a Fabry-Perot resonator for the optical feedback element with a nematic liquid-crystal cell used as an optically nonlinear intracavity medium. On illumination with a cw-laser beam, the system causes the beam to break up into several individual spots, passing through several transitions before finally reaching a stationary state. We devise a theoretical model which is used as the basis for numerical simulations of the system. The simulation results are in good agreement with experiment. Finally, we characterize the principal instability of the system using a linear stability analysis of the theoretical model.