A company called Quoin has created a device (warning: their pictures (and website) really suck) for the US military that can be used to ascend buildings. The Army versions of the device fire a grappling hook using a propellant cartridge, while the commercial version will be battery (and helicopter, according to the webpage) powered. The grappling hook attaches to the top of a building, and the other end of the rope is attached to a harness that lifts you up. It can lift 300 lbs. at 1 meter per second. The website says the battery-powered civilian version had been designed with commercial applications such as building repair, logging or window washing in mind. Or you can use it to fight crime and injustice!