Container Crusher

A container crusher comprising:

• a frame comprising a platform;
• a plurality of linear guide shafts fixed to the frame;
• a crank connected to the frame at a pivot point, the crank configured to rotate about the pivot point;
• a plate slidably mated, opposite the platform, to the plurality of linear guide shafts and connected, via one or more links, to the crank, such that the rotation of the crank causes the plate to linearly slide along the plurality of linear guide shafts;
• a plurality of annular detent plungers, each disposed in an annular recess in each of the plurality of linear guide shafts;
• and
• a plurality of bushings engaged with the plate and the plurality of linear guide shafts, each of the plurality of bushings comprising an annular detent catch configured to engage a corresponding annular detent plunger to retain the crank and the plate in substantially raised positions.

A method comprising:

• configuring a container crusher to comprise a guide shaft connected to a frame;
• connecting a crank to the frame and configuring the crank to be rotated, about a pivot point on the frame, upon receipt of an input force;
• connecting, via a link and to the crank, a plate, such that the rotation of the crank causes the plate to move linearly along the guide shaft;
• disposing an annular resilient detent plunger in an annular recess of the guide shaft;
• engaging a bushing with the plate and the guide shaft;
• and
• configuring the bushing to include an annular detent catch for engaging the detent plunger and retaining the crank and plate in a raised position.