High-Precision Defect Detection in Solar Cells Using YOLOv10 Deep Learning Model

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This study presents an advanced defect detection approach for solar cells using the YOLOv10 deep learning model. Leveraging a comprehensive dataset of 10,500 solar cell images annotated with 12 distinct defect types, our model integrates Compact Inverted Blocks (CIBs) and Partial Self-Attention (PSA) modules to enhance feature extraction and classification accuracy. Training on the Viking cluster with state-of-the-art GPUs, our model achieved remarkable results, including a mean Average Precision (mAP@0.5) of 98.5%. Detailed analysis of the model’s performance revealed exceptional precision and recall rates for most defect classes, notably achieving 100% accuracy in detecting black core, corner, fragment, scratch, and short circuit defects. Even for challenging defect types such as a thick line and star crack, the model maintained high performance, with accuracies of 94% and 96%, respectively. The Recall–Confidence and Precision–Recall curves further demonstrate the model’s robustness and reliability across varying confidence thresholds. This research not only advances the state of automated defect detection in photovoltaic manufacturing but also underscores the potential of YOLOv10 for real-time applications. Our findings suggest significant implications for improving the quality control process in solar cell production. Although the model demonstrates high accuracy across most defect types, certain subtle defects, such as thick lines and star cracks, remain challenging, indicating potential areas for further optimization in future work.