DIY Linear Actuator or...

[Finster]

Jim,

Found two more variations of a diy actuator with a clutch.

Output positions subject to input motion direction 3 by thang010146
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zhz2hkQtg6U

And this one is pretty much how I was thinking of doing it.
Kraftheber mit Spindelantrieb und Rutschkupplung
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQmJMxQA5C8

[Bo Wallen]

How about spring loaded door and rope and pulley system ........? Little motor and a drum......cheapest solution i can think of today.