Questions about elevator and R18

[iggy_gim]

Hey guys,
Our team is looking into an elevator that only has to lift the totes 1 foot into the air, but must be strong enough to lift five totes at once (the totes will be stacked on top of the elevator via another non-elevator apparatus). We thought we might use a linear actuator (motor) but that might not work as they are expensive and do not often come in 12" lengths and still be DC 12 volts. So does anyone know of a good linear actuator (motor).

Secondly, if we were to use a chain and motor for a pulley, how would we connect the chain to the vertically sliding forklift? I'm sorry if this a simple rookie question, but we came in during Arial Assist and have no experience with elevators. So I am looking for the name of the part used to connect a chain to a metal channel.

My last question has to do with rule R18. What does it mean by a 1" stroke size for the solenoid actuator? Also do the mini-CIMs count towards the CIM limit? Thanks a ton for al of your help!