What about pneumatic lifts, something like this?
You would need additional hinges and attachment points, and might need a bigger version (at least a pair), but the approach might work.
Note that these are generally used with a rotational hinge, but you might be able to combine it with some other hinges or levers to raise something straight up as well.
SUPPLEMENT (in response to comment questions)
One end of the lift is attached to a stationary object, like a wall, and the other to a platform that can move, like a hinged shelf. Usually there is a stop at least at the lower range of the platform. The lift is like spring that is under compression. You lift the outer edge of the platform and the gas lift provides an assist (reducing the weight). If it is perfectly balanced, the lift will hold the raised weight in place. Or it can be latched when it reaches its upper limit. Some gas lifts are adjustable in the amount of lift they provide. Going down is the same. Your hand pressure overcomes the resistance in the system and the lift slowly lowers the weight.
SUPPLEMENT 2
An alternative might be a pulley system, like this bike pulley setup
This system has a 4:1 advantage, so a 200 lbs. weight would feel like 50 lbs. You would probably need two systems for stability, and the effective weight would be 25 lbs. of pull needed to lift 200 lbs. This, of course requires that you can find very strong anchor points in the ceiling, bolted into the framing, not just the finish material.