System and Method for Packaging Dental Ingots

A system and method for producing, marking, and packaging ingots, comprising the steps of:

• introducing ingots to a production line via a first feeding mechanism;
• inspecting ingots for conformance to desired weight, size, and cosmetic requirements;
• transporting ingots to a second feeding mechanism;
• introducing a plurality of trays into said production line;
• inserting ingots into said trays;
• weighing said filled trays to check compliance with a desired weight range;
• marking said ingots;
• optically inspecting said ingots;
• inserting said loaded ingot trays into a packaging unit;
• packaging said loaded ingot trays;
• weighing said packaged trays for check compliance with a desired weight range;
• placing a wrapping on the exterior of a package;
• sending a wrapped package to a master packaging station, wherein a plurality of wrapped packages are combined into a larger unit;
• placing a wrapping on the exterior of a larger unit;
• combining a plurality of larger units into a pallet box for shipping.