Air Cylinder Quick Release Mech

[Dodger6600]

So I have an air cylinder similar to the picture posted and what I need is a some sort of device that will connect the bottom rod to the base of the cylinder and then quick release it after it has been pressurized. I need to be able to adjust the height of the rod so I was thinking of some sort of heavy duty clamp on the rod and quick release with a spring solenoid attached to the main cylinder possibly. It needs to withstand approximately 800 pounds of force. It needs to be attached to the cylinder because the cylinder with be hanging freely on a frame. Any other ideas?

 

[Jboggs]

Don't forget the effects of friction on your design (additional release force and wear). Consider rollers at any friction points.

 

[Dodger6600]

Yea I was considering adding springs to the pins connecting the solenoid to the rod clamp to help balance the forces out.