Abstract:
The embodiment enclosed relates to systems and methods for aiding a user in accessing the roof of a vehicle. The user may be accessing items stored on the roof, cleaning the roof, or otherwise performing some desired action relating to the roof/upper exterior area of a vehicle. The user may additionally be attempting to reach other elevated areas of the vehicle. The embodiment may include a ladder which may attach to a roof rack system attached to a vehicle. The roof rack system may be installed by the manufacturer or may be a third party, aftermarket system. The ladder system may easily detach and attach to the roof rack system and may enable a user to access various elevated portions of the vehicle. The ladder may store in proximity to the roof when not in use and therefore may enable a user to easily access the ladder when desired. In some embodiments, the ladder may additionally and/or alternatively be stored proximate the vehicle to enable access to elevated areas of the vehicle.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application in a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/948,533 filed Nov. 23, 2015, currently pending, titled “Stowable Ladder System.” 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    Vehicles are used to transport cargo every day. Vehicles transport everything from sporting equipment to groceries to vacation items. To aid in the transport of items, vehicle users may opt to purchase roof racks with the vehicle and/or have an aftermarket roof rack system installed on the vehicle. The roof rack system may enable the transport of a plethora of items. 
         [0003]    A vehicle may have a transportation cargo pod installed as part of the roof rack system. The transportation cargo pod may provide additional storage space to the vehicle user. The roof rack system may enable transportation of bicycles, snow equipment, water equipment, etc. However, the roof rack system may be difficult to access. A height differential between the user and the vehicle may make the roof rack system unmanageable. A user may have to climb onto/into the vehicle to reach the roof. This may result in the user opening a passenger and/or driver door and stepping on the seat of the vehicle and/or potentially damaging the seat and/or the side of the vehicle and/or the exterior. If the weather is cold or hot, climbing on the seats may allow exterior air to enter a vehicle causing discomfort to passengers. In inclement weather, this may damage the interior of the car. Utilization of a step ladder is safe only on stable ground, which is unlikely to be available in many situations where roof rack use occurs. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0004]    The embodiment enclosed relates to systems and methods for aiding a user in accessing the roof of a vehicle. The user may be accessing items stored on the roof, cleaning the roof, or otherwise performing some desired action relating to the roof/upper exterior area of a vehicle. The user may additionally be attempting to reach other elevated areas of the vehicle. The embodiment may include a ladder which may attach to a roof rack system attached to a vehicle. The roof rack system may be installed by the manufacturer or may be a third party, aftermarket system. The ladder system may easily detach and attach to the roof rack system and may enable a user to access various elevated portions of the vehicle. The ladder may store in proximity to the roof when not in use and therefore may enable a user to easily access the ladder when desired. In some embodiments, the ladder may additionally and/or alternatively be stored proximate the vehicle to enable access to elevated areas of the vehicle. 
         [0005]    In one embodiment, an apparatus for accessing an elevated area of a vehicle is described. The apparatus may comprise a first brace beam configured to be coupled to the vehicle and a second brace beam spaced from the first brace beam and configured to be coupled to the vehicle. The apparatus may include a ladder pivotally coupled to the first and second brace beams which may be movable between a stored position and a deployed position. In some embodiments, the first and second brace beam are coupled to a rack system proximate the vehicle. In other embodiments, the vehicle is a trailer. In some instances, the ladder may be an adjustable length ladder comprising a plurality of sections. In other instances, the ladder may be a folding ladder comprising a plurality of sections. The sections may be secured to maintain a length of the ladder when a locking mechanism proximate the ladder is engaged. In some embodiments, a total number of the plurality of sections may determine a length of the ladder when the ladder is fully expanded. 
         [0006]    In some instances, a first slidable member may be movably coupled to the first brace beam and a second slidable member may be movably coupled to the second brace beam. The ladder may be pivotally coupled to the first slidable member and pivotally coupled to the second slidable member. The first and second slidable members may move in line with the first and second brace beam. In some instances, the ladder may be movable between a first position in which the ladder is stored on the elevated area of the vehicle, and a second position in which the ladder is accessible for a user to access the elevated area of the vehicle. 
         [0007]    In another embodiment, an apparatus for accessing an elevated area of a vehicle is described. The apparatus may comprise a first brace beam configured to be coupled to the vehicle and a second brace beam configured to be coupled to the vehicle. The apparatus may include a first slidable member movably coupled to the first brace beam and a second slidable member movably coupled to the second brace beam. The apparatus may additionally include a ladder pivotally coupled to the first and second slidable members. The length of the ladder may be fixed. The ladder may comprise a plurality of adjustable sections. The ladder may be movable between a stored position and a deployed position. 
         [0008]    In some embodiments, the apparatus may include a first cross-beam and a second cross-beam. The second cross-beam may be spaced laterally from the first cross-beam. In some embodiments, the first brace beam may have a first end and a second end arranged opposite the first end. The first end being may be coupled to the first cross-beam and the second end may be coupled to the second cross-beam. In some instances, the second brace beam may have a first end and a second end arranged opposite the first end. The first end may be coupled to the first cross-beam and the second end may be coupled to the second cross-beam. 
         [0009]    In some embodiments, the first brace beam may be moveably coupled to the first and second cross-beam and the second brace beam may be moveably coupled to the first and second cross-beam. In other embodiments, the first brace beam may be rigidly coupled to the first and second cross-beam and the second brace beam may be rigidly coupled to the first and second cross-beam. 
         [0010]    In some embodiments, the adjustable sections of the ladder may determine a total length of the ladder. The sections may secure a length of the ladder when a locking mechanism is engaged. In some embodiments, the apparatus may include an axle with a first end and a second. The first end may be rotatably coupled to the first slidable member and the second end may be rotatably coupled to the second slidable member. In some embodiments, the ladder may be pivotable between a first position in which the ladder is stored on the elevated area of the vehicle and a second position in which the ladder is accessible for a user to access the elevated area from a first side of the vehicle. The ladder may be slidable between the first position and the second position. 
         [0011]    In some embodiments, the first slidable member may be rotatably coupled to the first brace beam, and the second slidable member may be rotatably coupled to the second brace beam. The ladder may be pivotable into a third position in which the ladders is accessible for a user to access the elevated area from a second side of the vehicle, the ladder being pivotable between the second and third positions upon rotation of the first and second slidable members relative to the first and second brace beams, respectively. 
         [0012]    In some embodiments, a support member may connect the first brace beam and the second brace beam. The ladder may rest upon the support member in the first position. In some embodiments, a bushing may be positioned between the first slidable member and the first cross-beam when the ladder is arranged to permit a user to access the elevated area of the vehicle. The ladder may deforms the bushing between the first slidable member and the first cross-beam upon application of a downward force on the ladder. 
         [0013]    In some embodiments, the first and second brace beams may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the first and second cross-beams, and the first and second brace beams may slidably traverse the first and second cross-beams upon application of a force to the first and second brace beams. In some embodiments, a first mounting mechanism may be configured to couple the first brace beam to a vehicle cargo apparatus system and a second mounting mechanism may be configured to couple the second cross-beam to the vehicle cargo apparatus system. 
         [0014]    In another embodiment, a method for accessing an elevated area of a vehicle is described. The method may comprise providing an adjustable vehicle ladder and sliding the ladder from a rest position proximate the vehicle to a protruding position at a first side of the vehicle. The method may include pivoting the ladder from the protruding position to an operational position adjacent to the first side of the vehicle. The method may include extending a length of the ladder to an engaged length contacting a support surface upon which the vehicle is supported. The ladder may be movable between a stored position and a deployed position. 
         [0015]    In some embodiments, the method may include unsecuring the ladder from the rest position and fastening the ladder in the operational position. In some embodiments, the method may include securing the ladder in the engaged length. In some embodiments, the method may include pivoting the ladder from the first side of the vehicle to a second side of the vehicle. 
         [0016]    The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technical advantages of examples according to the disclosure in order that the detailed description that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages will be described hereinafter. The conception and specific examples disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. Such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Features which are believed to be characteristic of the concepts disclosed herein, both as to their organization and method of operation, together with associated advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. Each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only, and not as a definition of the limits of the claims. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0017]    A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the embodiments may be realized by reference to the following drawings. In the appended figures, similar components or features may have the same reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label by a dash and a second label that distinguishes among the similar components. If only the first reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components having the same first reference label irrespective of the second reference label. 
           [0018]      FIG. 1  is an isometric view of an exemplary vehicle with a roof rack sy stem; 
           [0019]      FIG. 2  is a side view of a vehicle with an exemplary ladder system; 
           [0020]      FIG. 3  is a front view of a vehicle with an exemplary ladder system; 
           [0021]      FIG. 4  is a front view of a vehicle with an exemplary ladder system; 
           [0022]      FIG. 5  is an isometric view of an exemplary ladder system; 
           [0023]      FIG. 6  is an isometric view of an exemplary ladder system; 
           [0024]      FIG. 7A  is a top down view of an exemplary attachment system; 
           [0025]      FIG. 7B  is a cut-away view of an exemplary locking system in a load beam; 
           [0026]      FIG. 8A  is a top down view of an exemplary attachment system; 
           [0027]      FIG. 8B  is a cut-away view of an exemplary locking system in a load beam; 
           [0028]      FIG. 9  is a side view of a vehicle with an exemplary ladder system having a ladder in a deployed position; 
           [0029]      FIG. 10  is a front view of the vehicle and ladder system shown in  FIG. 9  with the ladder in the deployed position; 
           [0030]      FIG. 11  is a front view of the vehicle and ladder system shown in  FIG. 9  with the ladder in a stowed position; 
           [0031]      FIG. 12  is an isometric view of an exemplary ladder system with a ladder in a deployed position; 
           [0032]      FIG. 13  is an isometric view of the ladder system shown in  FIG. 12  with the ladder in a stowed position; and 
           [0033]      FIG. 14  is an exemplary flow chart relating to operation of an exemplary ladder system. 
       
    
    
       [0034]    While the embodiments described herein are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, the exemplary embodiments described herein are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the instant disclosure covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the appended claims. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0035]    The systems and methods described herein may, at least in part, relate to vehicles and roof rack systems. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term “aligned” means parallel, substantially parallel, or forming an angle of less than 35.0 degrees. Also, for the purposes of this disclosure, the term “transverse” means perpendicular, substantially perpendicular, or forming an angle between 55.0 and 125.0 degrees. Further, for purposes of this disclosure, the term “length” refers to the longest dimension of an object. 
         [0036]    In some embodiments, vehicles are equipped with roof rack systems. The roof rack systems may be purchased by a third party provider and attached to the vehicle. A roof rack system may have at least two load beams. The loads beams may be hollow elongated members with a cap on opposing ends. The caps may be removable. To allow a person to access the roof, a collapsible ladder may be attached to an end of the load beams. The ladder may store easily on the roof but may be movable to allow a user to extend down the side of vehicle. The ladder may not touch the vehicle thus preventing possible damage such as scratching of the vehicle. 
         [0037]      FIG. 1  is an isometric view of a vehicle  100  with a roof rack system  105  installed proximate the roof  110  of the vehicle. The vehicle  100  may comprise a standard size vehicle such as a coupe, sedan, wagon, hatchback, or the like. The vehicle  100  may also comprise a standard utility vehicle (SUV), crossover, truck, minivan, or the like. The vehicle  100  shown in  FIG. 1  is merely representative of a generic vehicle and is not meant to limit the disclosure herein. 
         [0038]    The vehicle  100  may include a body  115  of the vehicle  100  with a forward end  120  and a rear end  125  opposite the forward end  120 . The vehicle  100  may include one or more doors  130 . The roof  110  of the vehicle  100  may have a roof rack system  105  installed. In the embodiment shown, the roof rack system  105  may comprise a forward roof rack  135  and a rear roof rack  140 . However, the roof rack system  105  may comprise additional racks as suitable. The forward and rear roof racks  135 ,  140  may comprise a load beam  145 ,  150  each with at least two attachment means  155  to the vehicle  100 . The load beams  145 ,  150  may be substantially hollow and may include end caps  160  on the ends of the load beams  145 ,  150 . The end caps  170  may be removable. The distance D between the roof racks  135 ,  140  may vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle  100  and number of roof racks installed. 
         [0039]    The roof rack system  105  may allow the storage of cargo for transportation. The vehicle  100  may be equipped with an enclosed cargo box, snow equipment transportation, bicycle transportation, canoes, kayaks, and the like. However, accessing the roof  110  of the vehicle  100  can be difficult. The height difference between a person and the roof  110  may require a person to climb on the vehicle  100  to access the roof  110 . Alternatively, a step stool or ladder may be used but the step stool or ladder may require transportation. The step stool or ladder may need to fit inside the vehicle  100 . There may not be enough room in the vehicle  100  or the step stool or ladder may be dirty. Further, the ground on which an unsecured step ladder might rest could be fouled with snow, ice, mud, rocks, etc., making security of the ladder uncertain. 
         [0040]      FIG. 2  is a side view of a vehicle  100  with a roof rack system  105  and ladder system  200  installed proximate the roof  110  of the vehicle. The ladder system  200  may enable a person to easily access the roof  110  of the vehicle  100 . The ladder system  200  may include a cross-beam system  205  with a ladder  225  attached thereto. The ladder system  200  may attach to the roof rack system  105  and be mobile with the vehicle  100 . The ladder system  200  may additionally be installed on other types of vehicles including a pop-up camper, a trailer, or any other item that may have a roof rack system  105  attached to it. 
         [0041]    The cross-beam system  205 , shown in greater detail in  FIG. 5 , may connect to the first roof rack  135  and the second roof rack  140  via one or more attachment means  210 ,  215  and may include a rotatable member  220  coupled to the collapsible ladder  225 . The rotatable member  220  may enable the ladder  225  to rotate from a stored position (discussed with reference to  FIG. 4 ) or an engaged position as shown in  FIG. 2 . The rotatable member  220  may also slide laterally between the attachments  210 ,  215  as indicated by arrows A-A. This may enable a user to easily access a more forward  120  or aft  125  part of the vehicle  100 . As will be explained with greater detail below, the cross-beam system  205  may structurally connect the first roof rack  135  and the second roof rack  140 . However, the distance D between the first roof rack  135  and the second roof rack  140  may not be equivalent for all make and model vehicles. Different vehicles may have different distances D between the two roof racks  135 ,  140 . The cross-beam system  205  may have the ability to extend between the different distances D that may be present. 
         [0042]    The ladder  225  is shown in an engaged position wherein the ladder  225  is accessible to climb and extends to, and rests upon, the ground  235 . The ladder  225  may enable a person to climb up rungs  230  to a desired height to reach cargo that may be stored atop the roof  110 . The rungs  230  may allow a person to load cargo or remove cargo from the roof  110 , to clean the roof, or otherwise provide an added height to enable a person to perform a desired function. 
         [0043]      FIG. 3  shows a front view of a vehicle  100  with a roof rack system  105  and ladder system  200  installed proximate the roof  110  of the vehicle.  FIG. 3  shows a gap  300  between the ladder  225  and the vehicle  100  wherein the ladder  225  is substantially aligned with a side  305  of the vehicle  100 . The gap  300  may prevent the ladder  225  from scratching or otherwise damaging the sides  305  of the vehicle  100 . The gap  300  may also enable a user to place their foot on the rung (e.g. rung  230 ,  FIG. 2 ) of the ladder  225  to which may provide a sturdier climbing surface for the user. 
         [0044]    The ladder  225  may have two adjustable distances which may affect the gap  300  between the vehicle  100  and the ladder  225 . The first adjustable distance may be distance F. Distance F may be the distance the cross-beam system  205  is engaged with the roof rack system  105 . The distance F may be negligible, or essentially zero. The distance F may also be expanded to create a more vertical angle A between the ground and the ladder  225 . The vertical angle A may be a factor of the distance F and the distance G. If distance G remains constant, the vertical angle A will begin to reach ninety (90) degrees as the distance F is increased. Conversely, if the distance F is constant but the distance G is reduced, the vertical angle A will tend towards zero (0) degrees as the angle A is reduced. The ability to adjust the angle A of the ladder  225  may affect the sturdiness of the ladder  225 . Adjusting the angle A may also adjust the gap  300  between the ladder  225  and the vehicle  100 . In some instances, the distance G may be limited due to space surrounding the vehicle  100 . For example, in a parking lot, a second vehicle may restrict movement on the side of the vehicle  100 . Adjusting the distances F, G may also allow a person to safely engage the ladder  225 , find sturdy ground, or comfortably adjust the ladder  225 . 
         [0045]    The ladder  225  as shown in  FIG. 3  has a slight curvature side profile. The curvature profile may provide a more consistent gap  300  between the ladder  225  and the vehicle  100 . While a slight curvature is shown, the curvature may vary from non-existent (i.e. a straight ladder) to a more curved side profile. In some embodiments, the curvature side profile may substantially align with the curvature of the side  300  of the vehicle  100 . 
         [0046]    The extended length L of the ladder  225  may also be adjustable depending on the vehicle on which the ladder  225  is attached and the ladder  225  itself. For example, the collapsible ladder  225  may be an adjustable length ladder which may have a completely variable length that is fully customizable. The ladder  225  may be a telescoping ladder. The ladder  225  may additionally fold onto itself and may have varying lengths. If the ladder  225  is a foldable ladder, the distances F and G may provide the necessary adjustments for a sturdy ladder  225 . 
         [0047]      FIG. 4  is a front view of the vehicle  100  with a roof rack system  105  and ladder system  200  installed proximate the roof  110  of the vehicle. The ladder  225  is showed in a collapsed, stored position. The collapsed, stored position of the ladder  225  may allow a user of the automobile to easily transport the ladder with the vehicle  100 . 
         [0048]    To store the ladder  225 , the length L of the ladder  225  may need to be reduced. As mentioned, the ladder  225  may fold onto itself to reduce its length L or it may telescope into itself to a reduced length L. For example, portions of the ladder  225  may store inside other portions of the ladder  225  such that the design is a telescoping design. The ladder  225  may lock in an extended position and in a telescoped position. Alternatively, the ladder  225  may fold out to extend its length L. The length L of the ladder  225  during storage should be small enough to easily store on the roof  110  of the vehicle  100 . The storage length L of the ladder  225  may be approximately  10 - 20  percent of the extended length of the ladder  225 . The length L of the ladder  225  may vary depending on vehicle make and model. For example, a larger vehicle may require a longer length L of the ladder  225  whereas a smaller vehicle may not have the need for same length and therefore may have a shorter length L. 
         [0049]    As mentioned previously, the ladder  225  may be rotatably coupled to the cross-beam system (e.g. cross-beam system  205 ,  FIG. 2 ). For example, the ladder  225  may be coupled to the rotatable member (e.g. rotatable member  220 ,  FIG. 2 ) which may rotate about a portion of the cross-beam system. The rotatable member may enable the ladder  225  to move from an engaged position as shown in  FIG. 3  to a stored position as shown in  FIG. 4 . The ladder  225  may lock in the stored position which may be approximately forty-five (45) degrees from the roof  110  of the vehicle  100 . The stored position may also be any angle that may enable the ladder  225  to be stored away from the one or more sides  305  of the vehicle  100 . The varying degree of locking angle may enable the ladder  225  to accommodate various sizes and locations of cargo which may be stored proximate the roof  110  of the vehicle  100 . For example, snow equipment such as skis or a snowboard may enable the ladder  225  to be stored at a very small angle relative to the roof  110 , such as ten to twenty (10-20) degrees. In contrast, a bicycle or canoe may cause the ladder  225  to be stored more in a forty-five (45) degree angle. If no cargo is proximate the roof  110 , the ladder  225  may rest directly on the roof  110 . This may be beneficial if the vehicle  100  is stopped. However, if the vehicle  100  is moving the ladder  225  may vibrate and bounce on the roof  110  causing undesirable noises to occupants of the vehicle  100 . Therefore, the ladder  225  should lock in place when the vehicle  100  is in motion to prevent this type of noise. Alternatively, the ladder  225  may incorporate a footing, bushing, washer, flange or the like to prevent the ladder  225  from contacting the roof  110  of the vehicle  100 . 
         [0050]    A spring-loaded collar (not shown) on the first or second attachment system (e.g. first or second attachment system  210 ,  215 ,  FIGS. 1, 5, 6 ) may mate with complimentary teeth proximate the rotatable member (e.g. rotatable member  220 ,  FIGS. 2, 5, 6 ). The collar may be fixedly retractable to allow for hands-free positioning. Once in position, the collar may be deployable to mate with the teeth in the rotatable member. This may lock the ladder in an engaged or stored position. 
         [0051]    Further, in a stored configuration, the ladder  225  may rest on a cushioning surface  400  attached to the ladder  225  which may minimize potential stress to the collar device and which may protect the roof  110  of the vehicle  100 . The cushioning surface  400  may be a semi-compressible material which may rest on the roof  110  of the vehicle  100  if the ladder  225  is stored on top of the roof  110 . The cushioning surface  400  may comprise a weather-resistant material such as a polymer. 
         [0052]      FIG. 5  is a close-up view of the cross-beam system  205  and the load beams  145 ,  150  of the roof rack system  105 . The cross-beam system  205  as shown may include a portion of the ladder  225  and elements of the cross-beam system  205 . The first load beam  145  may be either the forward or aft roof rack such that the ladder  225  may be mounted on either the driver or passenger side of the vehicle  100 . In some embodiments, a single vehicle may additionally be fitted with a ladder system on both the driver and passenger side of the vehicle  100 . 
         [0053]    The cross-beam system  205  may comprise a first attachment  210 , a second attachment  215 , and a rotatable member  220 . The first and second attachment may attach the ladder system  200  to the roof rack system  105 . The first and second attachment  210 ,  215  may be complimentary and/or may be symmetrical. The first attachment  210  may comprise an insertion beam  500 , an extension beam  505 , and a corner joint  510  connecting the insertion beam  500  and the extension beam  505  together. The insertion beam  500  and extension beam  505  may be substantially transverse to each other. 
         [0054]    The insertion beam  500  may insert into a hollow portion of the load beam  145 . For example, the insertion beam  500  may have an outer diameter which may be less than an inner diameter of the load beam  145 . This may allow a user to easily slide the insertion beam  500  into the hollow portion of the load beam  145 . The insertion beam  500  may insert into the load beam  145  enough to provide structural support to the overall ladder system  200 . The insertion beam  500  may insert at least twenty percent ( 20 %) into the load beam  145 . In some embodiments, the insertion beam  500  may insert a greater percentage into the load beam  145 . The insertion length may vary depending on make and model of the vehicle as well as number of ladder systems installed. 
         [0055]    The extension beam  505  may extend from the corner joint  510  towards the opposing load beam  150 . In some embodiments, the extension beam  505  may be a single piece connecting to the corner joint  510  of the second attachment  215 . In another embodiment as shown in  FIG. 5 , each extension beam  505  may extend only a portion of the distance between the two joints  510  such that there is a gap between a first extension beam  505  and a second extension beam  505 - a.    
         [0056]      FIG. 6  is a close-up view of another embodiment of the cross-beam system  205  and the load beams  145 ,  150  of the roof rack system  105 . The cross-beam system  205  as shown may include a portion of the ladder  225  and elements of the cross-beam system  205 . The first load beam  145  may be either the forward or aft roof rack such that the ladder  225  may be mounted on either the driver or passenger side of the vehicle  100 . 
         [0057]    The embodiment shown incorporates a different corner joint  600  with a single piece extension beam  605 . The extension beam  605  couples a first corner joint  600  and a second corner joint  600 -a. The rotatable member  220  may fit over the single piece extension beam  605 . The corner joint  600  also represents a different configuration. The corner joint  600  may be box shaped with through holes that the extension beam  605  and insertion beam  500  may fit into. The through holes and extension beam  605  and insertion beam  500  may be tight fit such that an outer diameter of the extension beam  605  and insertion beam  500  is slightly larger than the inner diameter of the through holes. In another embodiment, the extension beam  605  and insertion beam  500  may be glued, screwed, or otherwise fixed to the corner joint  600 . 
         [0058]      FIG. 7A  is a top down view of the first attachment means  215 , which is also representative of second attachment means. The first attachment means  215  may include an insertion beam  500 , an extension beam  505 , and a corner joint  510 . The insertion beam  500  may include a locking mechanism  700  which may fasten the insertion beam  500  to a load beam (e.g. load beam,  145 ,  150 ). 
         [0059]    The locking mechanism  700  may comprise a tightening mechanism  705  with a handle  710  and a compression mechanism  715 . The compression mechanism  715  may create a tight fit between the inner diameter of the load beam and the outer diameter  720  of the insertion beam  500 . The compression mechanism  715  may be a substantially cylindrical member with a diagonal surface  725  proximate the insertion beam  500 . The diagonal surface  725  may be an angle between twenty (20) and seventy (70) degrees from an axis  730  aligned with the cylindrical member  720 . An end  735  of the insertion beam  500  may have a complimentary diagonal surface  740  proximate the compression mechanism  715 . 
         [0060]    The tightening mechanism  705  may be couple to the compression mechanism  715 . For example, the tightening mechanism  705  may attach to a washer  745  proximate a flat end of the compression mechanism  715 . The tightening mechanism  705  may be a threaded member which may pass through a hole in the washer  740  and attach to a nut  755  on the opposite side of the washer  740 . The tightening mechanism  705  may then pass through a hollow portion of the insertion beam  500  and through a hole  750  in the corner joint  510 . The tightening mechanism  705  may then attach to the handle  710 . 
         [0061]    The handle may cause the tightening mechanism  705  to rotate. This may bring the compression mechanism  715  towards the insertion beam  500 . Shown in  FIG. 7B , as the opposing diagonal surfaces  725 ,  740  meet, the compression mechanism  715  may push against an inner diameter  755  of the load beam  145 . This may cause the insertion beam  500  to lock against load beam  145  which may hold the cross-beam system in place. The handle  710  may enable quick adjustment of distance F. Altering distance F may aid in the use of the ladder as discussed with reference to  FIG. 3 . 
         [0062]      FIG. 8  is a top down view of the first attachment means  215 , which is also representative of second attachment means. The first attachment means  215  may include an insertion beam  500 , an extension beam  505 , and a corner joint  510 . The insertion beam  500  may include another embodiment of a locking mechanism  800  which may be coupled to the insertion beam  500  to a load beam (e.g. load beam,  145 ,  150 ). 
         [0063]    The locking mechanism  800  may comprise a tightening mechanism  805  with a handle  810  and a compression mechanism  815 . The compression mechanism  815  may create a tight fit between the inner diameter of the load beam and the outer diameter  820  of the insertion beam  500 . The compression mechanism  815  may be a substantially cylindrical member comprising a compressible material. The compression mechanism  815  may have a first diameter when not engaged. 
         [0064]    The tightening mechanism  805  may be coupled to the compression mechanism  815 . For example, the tightening mechanism  805  may pass through a hole  825  in the compression mechanism and attach to a washer  830 . The tightening mechanism  805  may be a threaded member which may pass through a hole in the washer  830  and attach to a nut  835  on the opposite side of the washer  840 . The tightening mechanism  805  may then pass through a hollow portion of the insertion beam  500  and through a hole  845  in the corner joint  510 . The tightening mechanism  805  may then attach to the handle  810 . 
         [0065]    The handle  810  may cause the tightening mechanism  805  to rotate. This may cause a length M of the compression mechanism  815  to reduce and may cause the diameter  820  of the compression mechanism  815  to increase. Shown in  FIG. 8B , as the compressible material is tightened against the end of the insertion beam  500 , the compressible material may expand in diameter. The expansion may create a tight fit between the compression mechanism  815  and an inner diameter of the load beam  145 . 
         [0066]      FIG. 9  is a side view of a vehicle  100  with a roof rack system  105  and an alternative ladder system  900  installed proximate the roof  110  of the vehicle  100 . The ladder system  900  may include a support system  905  with a ladder  915  attached thereto. The ladder  915  may be similar to the ladder  225  described above. The ladder system  900  may attach to the roof rack system  105  and be mobile with the vehicle  100 . The ladder system  900  may enable a person to easily access the roof  110  of the vehicle  100  or other areas difficult to reach from a ground position. The ladder system  900  may additionally and/or alternatively be configured to attach to other aspects of vehicles such as a bed of a pickup truck, or other mounting structures on vehicles such as scaffolding or tool boxes on a truck or utility trailer, etc. The ladder system  900  may additionally be installed on other types of vehicles including a pop-up camper, a trailer, or any other item that may have a roof rack system  105  attached to it. 
         [0067]    The cross-beam system  905 , shown in greater detail in  FIG. 12 , may connect to the first roof rack  135  and the second roof rack  140  via one or more attachment features. In other embodiments, the cross-beam system  905  may connect to other aspects of a vehicle or utility trailer, such as directly to the roof structure or other generally horizontally oriented structure of the vehicle, trailer, or equipment carried by the vehicle or trailer. In other embodiments, the ladder system  900  may be mounted to a vertically oriented structure and/or surface, or a structure or surface that is arranged at an angle between horizontal and vertical. As shown in  FIG. 9 , the cross-beam system  905  may rest entirely below a roof rack system  105 . This arrangement may enable a user to store the ladder system  900  beneath cargo or cargo units attached to the roof rack system  105 . 
         [0068]    The ladder  915  is shown in an engaged position wherein the ladder  915  is accessible to climb and extends to, and rests upon, a support surface  910 . The ladder  915  may enable a person to climb up rungs  920  to a desired height to reach cargo that may be stored atop the roof  110 . The rungs  920  may allow a person to load cargo or remove cargo from the roof  110 , to clean the roof, or otherwise provide an added height to enable a person to perform a desired function. A total length L of the ladder  915  and number of rungs  920  may be variable. For example, the ladder  915  may expand to differing lengths to accommodate variable vehicle heights and/or variations in support surfaces  910 . The ladder  915  may additionally be a telescoping ladder and may have the ability to add and/or remove sections to provide a variable length L. In other embodiments, the ladder  915  may have a fixed number of sections for an overall fixed length L. 
         [0069]      FIG. 10  shows a front view of a vehicle  100  with a roof rack system  105  and ladder system  900  installed proximate the roof  110  of the vehicle.  FIG. 10  shows a gap  300  between the ladder  225  and the vehicle  100  wherein the ladder  915  is substantially aligned with a side  305  of the vehicle  100 . 
         [0070]    Similar to the ladder  225 , the ladder  915  may have two adjustable distances which may affect a gap  1005  between the vehicle  100  and the ladder  915 . The first adjustable distance may be distance T. Distance T may be the distance the cross-beam system  905  is engaged with the roof rack system  105 . The distance T may be negligible, or essentially zero. The distance T may also be expanded to create a more vertical angle B between the ground and the ladder  915 . The vertical angle B may be a factor of the distance S and the distance T. If distance T remains constant, the vertical angle A will begin to reach ninety (90) degrees as the distance S is increased. Conversely, if the distance S is constant but the distance T is reduced, the vertical angle B will tend towards zero (0) degrees as the angle B is reduced. The ability to adjust the angle B of the ladder  915  may affect the sturdiness of the ladder  915 . Adjusting the angle B may also adjust the gap  1005  between the ladder  915  and the vehicle  100 . In some instances, the distance S may be limited due to space surrounding the vehicle  100 . For example, in a parking lot, a second vehicle may restrict movement on the side of the vehicle  100 . Adjusting the distances S, T may also allow a person to safely engage the ladder  915 , find sturdy ground, or comfortably adjust the ladder  915 . 
         [0071]    The ladder  915  as shown in  FIG. 10  has a straight side profile. While a straight curvature is shown, the ladder may have a side profile with a curvature similar to ladder  225  described with reference to  FIG. 3 . 
         [0072]      FIG. 11  is a front view of the vehicle  100  with a roof rack system  105  and ladder system  900  installed proximate the roof  110  of the vehicle. The ladder  915  is showed in a collapsed, stored position. The collapsed, stored position of the ladder  915  may allow a user of the automobile to easily transport the ladder with the vehicle  100 . 
         [0073]    To store the ladder  915 , the length L of the ladder  915  may need to be reduced. As mentioned, the ladder  915  may fold onto itself to reduce its length L or it may telescope into itself to a reduced length L. For example, portions of the ladder  915  may store inside other portions of the ladder  915  such that the design is a telescoping design. The ladder  915  may lock and/or maintain an extended position and a telescoped position. The telescoped position may alternatively be an unfolded portion of the ladder  915 . The ladder  915  may additionally adjust the length L of the ladder by unfolding sections of the ladder to extend and/or reduce the over length L. The length L of the ladder  915  during storage should be small enough to easily store on the roof  110  of the vehicle  100  or out of the way of a scaffolding or other system attached to a vehicle or trailer. The storage length L of the ladder  915  may be approximately  10 - 20  percent of the extended length of the ladder  915 . The length L of the ladder  915  may vary depending on vehicle make and model. For example, a larger vehicle may require a longer length L of the ladder  915  whereas a smaller vehicle may not have the need for a longer or similar length and therefore may have a shorter or different length L. 
         [0074]    The ladder  915  may be rotatably coupled to the cross-beam system. For example, the ladder  915  may be coupled to an axle (e.g. axle  1225 ,  1225 - a,    FIG. 12 ) which may rotate about a portion of the cross-beam system  905 . The axle may enable the ladder  915  to move from an engaged or deployed position as shown in  FIG. 10  to a stored or stowed position as shown in  FIG. 11 . The ladder  915  may lock in the stored position which may approximately align with the roof  110  of the vehicle  100  as shown. The ladder  915  may rest on a supporting member proximate the cross-beam system  905  which may prevent the  915  from contacting the roof  110  of the vehicle  100 . 
         [0075]    In other embodiments, the ladder  915  may be stored at an angle. The angle may also be any angle that may enable the ladder  915  to be stored away from the one or more sides  305  of the vehicle  100 . The varying degree of locking angle may enable the ladder  915  to accommodate various sizes and locations of cargo which may be stored proximate the roof  110  of the vehicle  100 . For example, when snow equipment such as skis or a snowboard are mounted to the roof rack system  105 , the ladder  915  to be stored at a very small angle relative to the roof  110 , such as ten to twenty (10-20) degrees. In contrast, when a bicycle or canoe is mounted to the roof rack system  105 , the ladder  915  to be stored at a larger angle, such as a forty-five (45) degree angle. 
         [0076]    In some embodiments, in a stored configuration, the ladder  915  may rest on a cushioning surface (e.g. cushioning surface  400 ,  FIG. 4 ) attached to the ladder  915  which may minimize potential stress to the collar device (e.g. collar device described with reference to  FIG. 4 ) and which may protect the roof  110  of the vehicle  100 . The cushioning surface may comprise a semi-compressible material and may rest on the roof  110  of the vehicle  100  when the ladder  915  is stored on top of the roof  110 . The cushioning surface  400  may comprise a weather-resistant material such as a polymer. 
         [0077]      FIG. 12  is a close-up view of the cross-beam system  905 . The cross-beam system  905  may attach to a roof rack system (e.g. roof rack system  105 ) or may attach to other rack systems or structures that may accompany a vehicle. The cross-beam system  905  as shown may include a portion of the ladder  915  and elements of the cross-beam system  905 . The ladder  915  may be mounted on either the driver or passenger side of the vehicle  100 . In some embodiments, a single vehicle may additionally be fitted with a ladder system on both the driver and passenger side of the vehicle  100 . In still further embodiments, the ladder  915  may be movable from the one side of the vehicle to the other (e.g. from the passenger side to the driver side or vice versa). 
         [0078]    The cross-beam system  905  may comprise a first brace beam  1205  and a second brace beam  1210 . The brace beams  1205 ,  1210  may support the ladder  915  and be configured to couple the ladder  915  to a rack system. In some embodiments, the brace beams  1205 ,  1210  may attach directly to a roof rack system (e.g. roof rack system  105 ) or may attach to other scaffolding or other parts of a vehicle. In other instances, the brace beams  1205 ,  1210  may attach directly to the vehicle. In other embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 12 , the brace beams  1205 ,  1210  may be configured to couple to cross-beams  1215 ,  1220 . The brace beams  1205 ,  1210  may be rigidly coupled to the cross-beams  1215 ,  1220  or may be movably mounted to the cross-beams  1215 ,  1220 . For example, the brace beams  1205 ,  1210  may slide forward and aft on the cross-beams  1215 ,  1220  as indicated by arrow Z. The forward and aft movement may enable a user to move the ladder  915  to a desired location along a vehicle. 
         [0079]    As mentioned, the brace beams  1205 ,  1210  and/or the cross-beams  1215 ,  1220  may be configured to couple to a vehicle. The beams  1205 ,  1210 ,  1215 ,  1220  may couple to factory installed roof racks on the vehicle, to aftermarket roof racks on the vehicle, directly to the vehicle, to scaffolding on a vehicle, to a trailer, and the like. The beams  1205 ,  1210 ,  1215 ,  1220  may be compression fit to the vehicle, they may be bolted, adhered, screwed, tied, fastened, or otherwise coupled to the vehicle. In some embodiments U-bolts may be used to secure some or all of the beams  1205 ,  1210 ,  1215 ,  1220  to the vehicle and/or rack, scaffolding, or the like carried by the vehicle. C-clamps may be used as well. 
         [0080]    In some embodiments, the beams  1205 ,  1210 ,  1215 ,  1220  may be telescoping for ease of attachment. For example, if the brace beams  1205 ,  1210  are attached to factory installed roof racks, the brace beams  1205 ,  1210  may be telescoping to accommodate changes in vehicle width, roof rack geometries, and the like. Similarly, if the brace beams  1205 ,  1210  are coupled to the cross-beams  1215 ,  1220 , the cross-beams may be telescoping to attach to variances in aftermarket roof rack systems. In some embodiments, all of the beams  1205 ,  1210 ,  1215 ,  1220  may be telescoping. For example, the brace beams  1205 ,  1210  may adjust in length to accommodate different widths of vehicles and/or trailers to allow ease of installation of the cross-beams  1215 ,  1220 , which also may adjust in length. In some instances, the adjustable length may incorporate a telescoping. 
         [0081]    The ladder  915  may be coupled to the brace beams  1205 ,  1210  via an axle  1225 . The ladder  915  may be coupled to a single axle that connects the slideable members  1230 ,  1235 . In other embodiments, the axle  1225  may be a two part axle  1225 ,  1225 -a as shown. The axle  1225  may enable the ladder  915  to rotate from a stored position (discussed with reference to  FIG. 11 ) to an engaged position, as shown in  FIG. 9 or 10 . For example, the ladder  915  may rotate about axis  1240  as shown by arrow M. The axle  1225  may be rigidly coupled to the ladder  915  and the entire system (e.g. the axle  1225  and the ladder  915 ) may rotate between the various positions. In another embodiment, the axle  1225  may be stationary and the ladder  915  may be pivotally coupled to the axle  1225 . 
         [0082]    The ladder  915  may be pivotally coupled to the brace beams  1210 ,  1215  as discussed above. In some embodiments, the ladder  915  may additionally and/or alternatively be slidably coupled to the brace beams  1210 ,  1215 . For example, the ladder  915  may be pivotally coupled to a first slidable member  1230  and a second slidable member  1235 . The first and second slidable members  1230 ,  1235  may be movably coupled to the first and second brace beams  1205 ,  1210 . For example, the first and second slidable members  1230 ,  1235  may move along the brace beams  1205 ,  1210  as indicated by arrow Y. The slidable members  1230 ,  1235  may be confined to movement within a boundary defined by the brace beams  1205 ,  1210  and the cross-beams  1215 ,  1220 . In another embodiment, the slidable members  1230 ,  1235  may extend beyond the boundary aforementioned. For example, the slidable members  1230 ,  1235  may extend beyond the brace beams  1215 ,  1220 . This may facilitate distance T as discussed with reference to  FIG. 10 . 
         [0083]    In some embodiments, the slidable members  1230 ,  1235  may be additionally pivotally attached to the brace beams  1205 ,  1210 . For example, the slidable members  1230 ,  1235  may pivot to allow the ladder  915  to be deployed on a driver side of the vehicle and a passenger side of the vehicle. The slidable members  1230 ,  1235  may additionally enable better storage of the ladder  915  as discussed with reference  FIG. 13 . 
         [0084]    When the ladder  915  is deployed as shown, a bushing (not shown) may be proximate at least one of the slidable members  1230 ,  1235  which may maintain a position of the slidable members  1230 ,  1235  in relation to the brace beams  1205 ,  1210 . For example, as a user climbs the ladder  915  or otherwise provides a downward force on the ladder  915 , the bushing may deform and create a locking mechanism between the slidable member  1230  and the brace beam  1210 . The bushing may be coupled to the slidable member  1230  on an underside of the slidable member  1230  proximate the brace bream  1205 . The bushing may be positioned such that when the ladder  915  is deployed, it is position between either the slidable member  1230  and the brace beam  1205  and/or the slidable member  1230  and the cross-beam  1220 . The bushing may comprise a deforming material such as a polymer or rubber. The bushing may deform when compressed. As the compression occurs, the bushing may maintain a position of the ladder  915 . 
         [0085]    In some embodiments, the cross-beam system  905  may include a support member  1240 . The support member  1240  may span from the first cross-beam  1205  to the second cross-beam  1210 . The support member  1240  may be fastened, adhered, or otherwise attached to the first and second cross-beams  1205 ,  1210 . The support member  1240  may prevent the ladder  915  from resting upon the vehicle when in a stored position. The support member  1240  may be substantially planar. 
         [0086]    In some embodiments, the ladder  915  may be pivotally movable between a driver side and/or passenger side of a vehicle. The slidable members  1230 ,  1235  may additionally be able to pivotable. For example, in some instances, the ladder  915  and slidable members  1230 ,  1235  may rotate about axis  1245  as shown by arrow N. The attachment of the slideable members  1230 ,  1235  to the brace beams  1205 ,  1210  may enable the slidable members  1230 ,  1235  to pivot 180 degrees such that the ladder  915 , which may be proximate the cross-beam  1220 , may now be proximate the cross-beam  1215 . The pivotable motion may enable a person to utilize the ladder  915  on either side of a vehicle and may prevent a user from detaching the ladder system  905  as a whole and reattached the system  905  to function as desired. 
         [0087]      FIG. 13  is a close-up view of the cross-beam system  905  with the ladder  915  in a stored position. As shown in the figure, the slidable members  1230 ,  1235  may fit entirely within a boundary provided by the beams  1205 ,  1210 ,  1215 ,  1220 . The ladder  915  may rest upon the support member  1240 . In some instances, the ladder  915  may secure to the support member  1240  in this position. The ladder  915  and support member  1240  may include a locking mechanism. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism may include a magnetized system. The ladder  915  may additional rest upon the support member  1240  and gravity may maintain the ladder  915  in this position. 
         [0088]      FIG. 14  is an exemplary flow chart of a method  1400  relating to a stowable ladder system, such as a method of operating the ladder system  900  described with reference to  FIGS. 9-13 . For clarity, the method  1400  is described below with reference to aspects of one or more of the ladder systems  200 ,  900  shown in  FIGS. 2-13 . 
         [0089]    At block  1405 , the method may include providing an adjustable vehicle ladder. The adjustable vehicle ladder may be coupled to the vehicle. The ladder may attach to the roof of a vehicle or another elevated area of the vehicle. The ladder may additionally and/or alternatively be coupled to a trailer or scaffolding system on a vehicle. The ladder may be secured in a rest position. Securing the ladder in the rest position may include using a locking mechanism to maintain the ladder in the rest position. 
         [0090]    At block  1410 , the method may include sliding the ladder from a rest position proximate the vehicle to a protruding position at a first side of the vehicle. The ladder may slide along slidable members which may enable the ladder to move from the rest position to the first side of the vehicle. Prior to sliding the ladder, the ladder may need to be unsecured from the resting position. This may include unlocking, disconnecting or otherwise unsecuring the ladder from the rest position. 
         [0091]    At block  1415 , the method may include pivoting the ladder from the protruding position to an operational position adjacent to the first side of the vehicle. At block  1420 , the method may include extending a length of the ladder to an engaged length contacting a support surface upon which the vehicle is supported. The ladder may then be fastening in the operational position. The fastening may include an active lock mechanism that a user must engage to operate. The fastening may include a passive fastening that occurs when the ladder is in use. The ladder may additionally be secured to an engaged length. This may include securing individual telescoping sections of the ladder. Telescoping sections of the ladder may enable the ladder system to be transferred from one vehicle to another vehicle. The telescoping sections of the ladder may additionally enable a user to utilize the ladder on varying ground surfaces or to provide varying stability of the ladder when in operation. 
         [0092]    In some embodiments, the ladder may be pivoted from the first side of the vehicle to a second side of the vehicle. This may enable a user to access an elevated area of the vehicle from either side or to access multiple areas of the vehicle as necessary. In other embodiments, multiple ladders may be provided to enable a user to access multiple areas of the vehicle. 
         [0093]    This description, for purposes of explanation, has been described with reference to specific embodiments. The illustrative discussions above, however, are not intended to be exhaustive or limit the present systems and methods to the precise forms discussed. Many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the present systems and methods and their practical applications, to enable others skilled in the art to utilize the present systems, apparatus, and methods and various embodiments with various modifications as may be suited to the particular use contemplated.