AEDN-YOLO: an efficient one-stage detection network for strip steel surface defects

Steel surface defect detection is one of the key tasks in industrial production and quality control. Research on defect detection using deep learning algorithms has shown promising results. However, due to the complex backgrounds, large differences in defect sizes, and diverse defect types present in steel strip surface defect images, existing deep learning algorithms struggle to achieve precise detection. To address these challenges, this paper proposes an efficient detection model named AEDN-YOLO. Firstly, an adaptive feature extraction (AFE) module is designed, embedded into C2f to better capture irregularly shaped objects. Secondly, the Triplet Attention module is incorporated into the bottom layer of the backbone network to enhance the model's ability to locate defect features accurately. Additionally, replace the standard convolution in the neck network with GSConv, which not only accelerates feature fusion to improve detection speed but also enlarges the model's receptive field to enhance detection accuracy. Finally, add a small target detection layer to enhance the detection capability for tiny defects. The model achieves mAP of 81.7% and 72.7% on the NEU-DET and GC10-DET datasets, respectively, with a detection speed of 72.1 FPS. Compared to mainstream defect detection algorithms, the proposed algorithm enables accurate and efficient detection of steel surface defects.