Patent Publication Number: US-2017355408-A1

Title: Device alignment tool and method

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is based on and claims benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/347,736, filed on Jun. 9, 2016, which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates generally to a device alignment tool, and, more particularly, to a device alignment tool and method. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Modern vehicles often have a variety of devices attached to an inside surface of the windshield. For example, vehicles may be equipped with one or more cameras or sensors that may provide images or other information used to control a movement of the vehicle. The cameras or sensors may be directly attached to an inner surface of the windshield of the autonomous vehicle. Some of the algorithms that are used to process the information picked up by the sensors use a known location of the sensor. The location that is used by the algorithms can be a certain point of reference in the host vehicle. For example, image processing algorithms can estimate a time to collision to a vehicle that is detected in images of an environment ahead of the vehicle based on a location of the camera that was used to capture the images in the host vehicle (the vehicle within which the camera is installed). Affixing the sensors to the windshield at a fixed location (e.g., at a certain distance from the edges of the windshield) is therefore desirable. 
     Debris from the road and/or from other vehicles travelling on the road can impact the windshield of a moving vehicle. Such impacts may cause cracking or severe damage to the windshield, requiring replacement of the windshield. A windshield may also require replacement due to other reasons such as, for example, damage to the edges of the windshield, or to other components attached to the windshield. To replace the windshield, a technician may need to remove any devices (e.g., cameras, sensors, etc.) attached to the inner surface of the windshield and reattach the devices to the replacement windshield. To minimize recalibration of the control system, the locations of the devices relative to edges of the replacement windshield should be maintained as close as possible to the locations of the devices relative to the edges of the original windshield. One way to do this may be to measure the positions of the devices on the original windshield before disassembling the devices from the windshield and reattaching the devices to the replacement windshield based on the measurements. Making accurate measurements during windshield replacement, however, may be difficult, time consuming, and prone to error. 
     The alignment tool of the present disclosure solves one or more of the problems set forth above and/or other problems in the art. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to an alignment tool. The alignment tool may include a frame. The alignment tool may also include at least one connector attached to the frame. The at least one connector may be configured to releasably attach the frame to an outer surface of a windshield. The alignment tool may include at least one link member. The link member may be fixedly attached to the frame at one end. The link member may also include an edge connection member at an opposite end. The edge connection member may be configured to engage with at least one edge of the windshield. The at least one link member may also have an adjustable length. The at least one link member may be configured to releasably attach the frame to the at least one edge of the windshield. 
     In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a method of relocating a device. The method may include making a first mark on an outer surface of a windshield of a vehicle. The first mark may correspond to a position of a device attached to an inner surface of the windshield. The method may further include disassembling the windshield from the vehicle. The method may include positioning an alignment tool on the outer surface of the windshield at a first location corresponding to the first mark. Additionally, the method may include determining one or more first distances of the alignment tool relative to first edges of the windshield. The method may also include positioning the alignment tool at a second location on a replacement windshield such that one or more second distances of the alignment tool from second edges of the replacement windshield are about equal to the one or more first distances. Further, the method may include making a second mark on the replacement windshield. The second mark may correspond to the second location of the alignment tool. The method may include assembling the replacement windshield on the vehicle. In addition, the method may include attaching the device to the replacement windshield based on the second mark. 
     In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a method of relocating a camera. The method may include making a first mark on an outer surface of a windshield of a vehicle. The first mark may correspond to a position of a camera attached to an inner surface of the windshield. The method may further include disassembling the windshield from the vehicle. The method may include positioning an alignment tool on the outer surface of the windshield at a first location corresponding to the first mark. Additionally, the method may include determining one or more first distances of the alignment tool relative to first edges of the windshield. The method may also include positioning the alignment tool at a second location on a replacement windshield such that one or more second distances of the alignment tool from second edges of the replacement windshield are about equal to the one or more first distances. Further, the method may include making a second mark on the replacement windshield. The second mark may correspond to the second location of the alignment tool. The method may include assembling the replacement windshield on the vehicle. In addition, the method may include attaching the camera to the replacement windshield based on the second mark. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a diagrammatic side view representation of a vehicle consistent with the disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 2  is a diagrammatic representation of an interior of a vehicle consistent with disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 3  is a pictorial illustration of an alignment tool consistent with disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 4  is a pictorial illustration of a frame of the alignment tool of  FIG. 3 , consistent with disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 5  is a pictorial illustration of a link member of the alignment tool of  FIG. 3 , consistent with disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 6  is a pictorial illustration of a windshield after it has been disassembled from the vehicle of  FIG. 1 , consistent with disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 7  is pictorial illustration of an assembly of the alignment tool of  FIG. 3  on a windshield, consistent with disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 8  is a pictorial illustration of an assembly of another alignment tool on a windshield, consistent with disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 9  is a pictorial illustration of another alignment tool on a windshield, consistent with disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 10  is a flow chart illustrating a method of replacing a windshield using the alignment tool of  FIG. 3 , consistent with disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 11A  is a diagrammatic front view representation of a vehicle consistent with the disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 11B  is a diagrammatic front view representation of an alignment tool assembled on a windshield of the vehicle of  FIG. 11A , consistent with disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 11C  is a diagrammatic representation of the windshield of the vehicle of  FIG. 11A  after disassembly from the vehicle of  FIG. 11A , consistent with disclose embodiments; 
         FIG. 11D  is a diagrammatic representation of the alignment tool of  FIG. 3  partially attached to the windshield of  FIG. 11C , consistent with the disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 11E  is another diagrammatic representation of the alignment tool of  FIG. 3  partially attached to the windshield of  FIG. 11C , consistent with the disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 11F  is a diagrammatic representation of the alignment tool of  FIG. 3  fully attached to the windshield of  FIG. 11C , consistent with the disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 11G  is a diagrammatic representation of the alignment tool of  FIG. 3  fully attached to a replacement windshield, consistent with the disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 11H  is a diagrammatic representation of the replacement windshield of  FIG. 11G  after the alignment tool of  FIG. 3  has been disassembled from the replacement windshield, consistent with the disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 12  is a flow chart illustrating a method of replacing a windshield using the alignment tool of  FIG. 9 , consistent with disclosed embodiments; 
         FIG. 13  is another flow chart illustrating a method of replacing a windshield using the alignment tool of  FIG. 3 , consistent with disclosed embodiments; and 
         FIG. 14  is a diagrammatic front view representation of an alignment tool assembled on a windshield of the vehicle of  FIG. 11A , consistent with disclosed embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a vehicle  10 , including a body  12 , a chassis  14 , and a windshield  16 . Chassis  14  may be supported by wheels  18 , which may allow vehicle  10  to move in a forward or rearward direction. As illustrated in the exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 1 , vehicle  10  may be an automobile. It is contemplated, however, that vehicle  10  may be any other type of land-based vehicle, an aircraft, a water-borne vehicle, or an amphibious vehicle configured to be driven manually or autonomously. 
     Windshield  16  of vehicle  10  may include an inner surface  22  and an outer surface  24 . One or more devices  20  may be attached to inner surface  22  of windshield  16 . Device  20  may be any type of device that generates visual or non-visual signals, data, and/or information. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 1 , device  20  may be an image capture device or camera, which may be configured to capture an image of the road in front of the vehicle. It is contemplated, however, that device  20  may be a sensor configured to generate data regarding a position or speed of the vehicle, or a distance of the vehicle from other objects, etc. Device  20  may also include satellite or radio antennae, or one or more sensors such as, for example, temperature sensors, rain sensors, light sensors, global positioning sensors, or any other type of sensors that may be required for operation of vehicle  10 . The one or more sensors of device  20  may also be optical sensors, acoustic sensors, electromagnetic sensors, infrared sensors, or any other type of sensors known in the art. In some exemplary embodiments, the one or more sensors of device  20  may be integrated with a rear-view mirror  30  (see  FIG. 2 ). 
     Vehicle  10  may include a power source  26  and a control system  28 . Power source  26  may be an engine, which may generate a power output that can be directed through wheels  18  to propel vehicle  10  in a forward or rearward direction. For example, power source  26  may be any suitable type of internal combustion engine, such as a gasoline, diesel, natural gas, or hybrid-powered engine. It is contemplated, however, that power source  26  may be driven by electricity. For example, power source  26  may be an electric motor driven by electrical power supplied by one or more batteries (not shown). Additionally or alternatively, power source  26  may be configured to deliver power output to a generator (not shown), which may in turn drive one or more electric motors (not shown) coupled to wheels  18 . Control system  28  may receive signals from devices  20 , power source  26 , and/or other components of vehicle  10 . Control system  28  may also generate signals to control power source  26 , and/or other components of vehicle  10 , during operation of vehicle  10 . 
       FIG. 2  shows an exemplary representation of an interior of vehicle  10 . As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , vehicle  10  may include a rear-view mirror  30  and a user interface  32 . User interface  32  may include a touch screen  34 , knobs  36 , buttons  38 , etc. Vehicle  10  may also include handles  40  (e.g. located on or near steering column  42  including, for example, turn signal handles) to interact with vehicle  10 . As illustrated in the exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 2 , one or more devices  20  may be attached to inner surface  22  of windshield  16 . In case two or more devices  20  are attached to inner surface  22  of windshield  16 , the two or more devices  20  can be adjacent to one another, or even seamlessly attached, forming a single block, or the two or more devices can be physically removed from one another and located at different locations on the inner surface  22  of the windshield  16 . 
       FIG. 3  shows an exemplary embodiment of an alignment tool  50 , which may be used to determine a position at which device  20  may be attached to windshield  16 . Alignment tool  50  may include frame  52 , connectors  54 , and one or more of link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62 . Although four link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  have been illustrated in  FIG. 3 , it is contemplated that frame  52  may have any number of link members. In one exemplary embodiment, frame  52  may have at least three link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 . 
       FIG. 4  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of frame  52 . As illustrated in  FIG. 4 , frame  52  may be generally planar and annular with an opening  64  through a thickness of frame  52 . Frame  52  may have an outer perimeter  44 . One or both of frame  52  and opening  64  may have a rectangular shape, a square shape, a triangular shape, a polygonal shape, a circular shape, or an elliptical shape. It is contemplated that frame  52  and opening  64  may have any other geometrical shape known in the art. In one exemplary embodiment, an inner perimeter  66  of opening  64  may have a shape that matches or generally matches (i.e., has the same shape and dimensions) as a perimeter over which device  20  may be attached to inner surface  22  of windshield  16 . It is also contemplated that in some exemplary embodiments, inner perimeter  66  of opening  64  may have a shape that matches or generally matches (i.e., has the same shape and dimensions) a perimeter of an extension, or another feature of device  20 . For example, inner perimeter  66  may have a shape that matches or generally matches a perimeter of a lens, a viewfinder, a handle, a button, a knob, etc., associated with device  20 . 
     In one exemplary embodiment as illustrated in  FIG. 4 , frame  52  may include one or more holes  68  and one or more slots  70 . Holes  68  may be disposed adjacent the four corners of frame  52 . It is contemplated, however, that holes  68  may be disposed anywhere on frame  52 . Holes  68  may be round or generally round, but other shapes are also contemplated. Holes  68  may be configured to receive connectors  54 . As also illustrated in  FIG. 4 , slots  70  may be disposed along edges of frame  52 . It is contemplated, however, that like holes  68 , slots  70  may be disposed anywhere on frame  52 . In one exemplary embodiment as illustrated in  FIG. 4 , slot  70  may have a rectangular or generally rectangular shape with rounded ends. It is contemplated, however, that slot  70  may have a rectangular shape, a square shape, a polygonal shape, a triangular shape, a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or any other geometrical shape known in the art. Slots  70  may be configured to receive link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62 . Although four holes  68  and four slots  70  have been illustrated in  FIG. 4 , it is contemplated that frame  52  may have any number of holes  68  and slots  70 . In one exemplary embodiment, a number of slots  70  may be equal to a number of link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 , and/or  62  attached to frame  52 . In another exemplary embodiment, frame  52  may have at least three holes  68  and three slots  70 . 
     Connector  54  may have a first end  72  connected to frame  52  and a second end  74  configured to be releasably attached to outer surface  24  of windshield  16 . In one exemplary embodiment as illustrated in  FIG. 4 , connector  54  may be a suction cup. It is contemplated, however, that connector  54  may be any other type of connector known in the art for releasably attaching frame  52  to windshield  16 . Connector  54  may be configured to dispose frame  52  at a predetermined distance from outer surface  24  of windshield  16 . 
     Returning to  FIG. 3 , first link member  56  may extend from first end  76  to second end  78 . Second link member  58  may extend from first end  80  to second end  82 . Third link member  60  may extend from first end  84  to second end  86 . Fourth link member  62  may extend from first end  88  to second end  90 . First ends  76 ,  80 ,  84 ,  88  of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62 , respectively, may be fixedly attached to frame  52 . In one exemplary embodiment as illustrated in  FIG. 3 , first ends  76 ,  80 ,  84 ,  88  of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62 , respectively, may pass through slots  70  of frame  52 , forming closed loops to attach first ends  76 ,  80 ,  84 ,  88  to slots  70 . It is contemplated, however, that first ends  76 ,  80 ,  84 ,  88  of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62 , respectively, may be attached to frame  52 , using adhesives, fasteners, rivets, or by any other method known in the art. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates an exemplary embodiment of link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62 . The following description of  FIG. 5  relates to link member  56  but it is equally applicable to link members  58 ,  60 , and  62 , which may have a structure and function similar to that of link member  56 . As illustrated in  FIG. 6 , link member  56  may include edge connection member  92 , for example, hook  92  attached to second end  78 . It is contemplated that any other type of clip or releasable connector known in the art may be attached to second end  78  instead of hook  92 . In one example, such a clip or releasable connector is configured to latch, clasp or otherwise connect to an edge or to a lip at the edge of the windshield. Link member  56  may have an inner section  94 , outer section  96 , coupler  98 , and length adjuster  100 . Inner section  94  may extend from first end  76  to coupler  98 . Outer section  96  may extend from coupler  98  to hook  92 . Coupler  98  may have clip  102  and clip receiver  104 . Clip  102  may be attached to inner section  94  and clip receiver  104  may be attached to outer section  96 . Clip receiver  104  of coupler  98  may be configured to receive clip  102 , which may be insertable into clip receiver  104  to attach clip  102  to clip receiver  104 . Attaching clip  102  to clip receiver  104  may connect inner section  94  with outer section  96 . Clip  102  and clip receiver  104  may form a quick-disconnect coupling, which may allow inner section  94  to be quickly and easily disconnected from outer section  96 . 
     In one exemplary embodiment as illustrated in  FIG. 5 , link member  56  may be a strap in which inner section  94  may have a fixed length, whereas a length of outer section  96  may be adjustable. For example, pulling on free end  106  of link member  56  may allow a length of outer section  96  to be reduced. It is contemplated, however, that either or both of inner section  94  and outer section  96  may include length adjusters  100 . It is also contemplated that in some exemplary embodiments, length adjuster  100  may be combined with coupler  98  and/or hook  92  to allow adjustment of the strap length. In one exemplary embodiment, both inner and outer sections  94 ,  96  of link member  56  may have a fixed length, while at least one of inner and outer sections  94 ,  96  of one or more of link members  58 ,  60 , and  62  may have an adjustable length. Although  FIG. 5  illustrates link member  56  in the form of a strap, it is contemplated that link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  may instead include telescoping structural members that may allow a length of link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  to be adjusted. It is also contemplated that link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  may have any other structural configuration known in the art (sliding, rack and pinion, etc.) that may allow a length of one or more of link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  to be adjusted. It is also contemplated that link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  may have quick disconnect hooks  92  instead of or in addition to quick disconnect couplers  98 . 
       FIG. 6  illustrates windshield  16 , which may be disassembled from vehicle  10 . Windshield  16  may have a first edge  112  and a second edge  114  disposed opposite first edge  112 . Windshield  16  may also have a third edge  116 , which may extend between first edge  112  and second edge  114 . In addition, windshield  16  may have a fourth edge  118 , extending between first edge  112  and second edge  114 . Fourth edge  118  may be disposed opposite third edge  116 . Third edge  116  may intersect with first edge  112  and second edge  114  at first corner  120  and second corner  122 , respectively. Likewise, fourth edge  118  may intersect with first edge  112  and second edge  114  at third corner  124  and fourth corner  126 , respectively. As illustrated in the exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 6 , one or more of first, second, third, and fourth edges  112 ,  114 ,  116 ,  118 , may have a curvilinear shape. One or more of first, second, third, and fourth corners  120 ,  122 ,  124 ,  126  may also have a rounded shape. In one exemplary embodiment, windshield  16  may include a first set of positions including first position  128 , second position  130 , third position  132 , and fourth position  134 . As illustrated in  FIG. 6 , first, second, third, and fourth positions may be positions on first, second, third, and fourth edges  112 ,  114 ,  116 ,  118 , respectively. In one exemplary embodiment first position  128  may be located at distance L 1  from corner  120 , second position  130  may be located at distance L 2  from corner  126 , third position  132  may be located at distance L 3  from corner  120 , and fourth position  134  may be located at distance L 4  from corner  126 . It is contemplated, however, that distances L 1 , L 2 , L 3 , L 4  of first, second, third, and fourth positions  128 ,  130 ,  132 ,  134 , respectively, may be determined from any of first, second, third, and fourth corners  120 ,  122 ,  124 ,  126  of windshield  16 . 
       FIG. 7  illustrates an exemplary assembly  136  of alignment tool  50  and windshield  16 . Alignment tool  50  may be attached to outer surface  24  of windshield  16  via connectors  54 . For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 7 , connectors  54  may engage with outer surface  24  of windshield  16  to attach frame  52  of alignment tool  50  to windshield  16 . Hook  92  of first link member  56  may engage with first edge  112  of windshield  16  at first position  128 . Hook  92  of second link member  58  may engage with second edge  114  of windshield  16  at second position  130 . Hook  92  of third link member  60  may engage with third edge  116  of windshield  16  at third position  132 . Hook  92  of fourth link member  62  may engage with fourth edge  118  of windshield  16  at fourth position  134 . As also illustrated in  FIG. 6 , lengths of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  may be adjusted so that each of link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  is disposed without any slack. Each of link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 , and  62  may be determined to be without any slack when pulling on free end  106  does not reduce a length of inner or outer sections  94 ,  96  of the respective one of link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62 . Although  FIG. 7  illustrates hook  92  of only one link member  56 ,  58 ,  60 , or  62  attached to each of first, second, third, and fourth edges  112 ,  114 ,  116 ,  118 , it is contemplated that more than one of link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  may be attached to a same edge  112 ,  114 ,  116 , or  118  of windshield  16 . 
       FIG. 8  illustrates an assembly  138 , including alignment tool  140  that may have only three link members  56 ,  58 , and  60 . Alignment tool  140  may have a frame  142  with many of the features similar to those described above with respect to frame  52 . In one exemplary embodiment, slots  144  of alignment tool  140  may be inclined relative to one or more of the outer edges  146 ,  148 ,  150 , and/or  152  of frame  142  of alignment tool  140 . First link member  56  of alignment tool  140  may be attached to first edge  112  of windshield  16 . Second and third link members  58  and  60  of alignment tool  140  may be attached to second edge  114  of windshield  16 . It is contemplated, however, that first, second, and third link members  56 ,  58 , and  60  of alignment tool  140  may alternatively be attached to any three of first, second, third, and fourth edges  112 ,  114 ,  116 ,  118  of windshield  16 . 
       FIG. 9  shows another exemplary embodiment of an alignment tool  160 , which may be used to determine a position at which device  20  may be attached to windshield  16 . Alignment tool  160  may include plate  162 , connectors  54 , and one or more of link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62 . Although four link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  have been illustrated in  FIG. 8 , it is contemplated that alignment tool  160  may have any number of link members. In one exemplary embodiment, alignment tool  160  may have at least three link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 . It is also contemplated that one or more of link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  may be attached to one or more of edges  112 ,  114 ,  116 , and/or  118  of windshield  16 . Plate  162  may be generally planar having a predetermined thickness and outer perimeter  164 . Plate  162  may have a rectangular shape, a square shape, a triangular shape, a polygonal shape, a circular shape, or an elliptical shape. It is contemplated that plate  162  may have any other geometrical shape known in the art. Plate  162  may include one or more openings  64  and one or more slots  70  similar to that of frames  52  and  142 . Plate  162  may also include one or more fiducial marks  166 ,  168 . The shapes and dimensions of the one or more fiducial marks  166 ,  168  may be similar to shapes and dimensions of fiducial marks that may be present on device  20 . For example, as shown in the exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 8 , fiducial mark  166  may be in the form of a plus sign “+” and fiducial mark  168  may be in the form of an “x” within a circle (e.g., {circle around (x)}). 
     The disclosed alignment tools may be implemented for replacing windshields on any vehicle in which one or more devices may be attached to an inside surface of a windshield of the vehicle. In particular, the alignment tools of the present disclosure may be used to transfer a device attached to a windshield to a generally identical location on a replacement windshield without the need for precise measurements during the replacement operations. Any replacement windshield that is appropriate in size and/or shape for the vehicle is contemplated and consistent with the disclosed embodiments. Exemplary methods of replacing a windshield using the disclosed alignment tools are described below. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates an exemplary method  1000  of replacing windshield  16  having device  20  attached to inner surface  22  with a replacement windshield  170 , using alignment tool  50 . The order and arrangement of steps in method  1000  is provided for purposes of illustration. As will be appreciated from this disclosure, modifications may be made to method  1000  by, for example, adding, combining, removing, and/or rearranging the steps of method  1000 . 
     Method  1000  may include a step of marking a location of device  20  on windshield  16  (Step  1002 ). Marking the location may include positioning alignment tool  50  on outer surface  24  of windshield  16  so that inner perimeter  66  of opening  64  may overlap or generally overlap with a perimeter  172  of device  20  attached to inner surface  22  of windshield  16 . As used in this disclosure, the phrase generally overlap suggests that a distance (i.e. separation), on a surface parallel or generally parallel to outer surface  24  of windshield  16 , between inner perimeter  66  and perimeter  172  of device may, for example, be less than a threshold amount. In one exemplary embodiment, the threshold amount may be a fraction of a millimeter (e.g. ±0.1 mm or ±0.5 mm) or a fraction of an inch. It is contemplated that an operator may determine whether inner perimeter  66  overlaps perimeter  172  of the device based on visual observations. As used in this disclosure the phrase “generally parallel” suggests that the two surfaces may be inclined relative to each other at an angle less than about ±0.5°. 
     Marking the location may include firmly attaching frame  52  of alignment tool  50  to outer surface  24  of windshield  16  using connectors  54 . In one exemplary embodiment, frame  52  may be attached to outer surface  24  using suction cups. Marking the location may further include marking an outline of inner perimeter  66  on outer surface  24  of windshield  16 . In one exemplary embodiment, a writing instrument (e.g., marker or sharpie) may be traversed along inner perimeter  66  of frame  52  to draw outline  174  of inner perimeter  66  on outer surface  24  of windshield  16 . In another exemplary embodiment the writing instrument may be traversed along outer perimeter  44  of frame  52  to draw an outline (not shown) of outer perimeter  44  on outer surface  24  of windshield  16 . In yet another exemplary embodiment, frame  52  may have channels or gaps that generally match with portions of a perimeter  172  of device  20  and marking the location may include traversing the writing instrument within the channels in frame  52  to mark portions of perimeter  172  on outer surface  24  of windshield  16 . 
       FIG. 11A  illustrates an exemplary representation of vehicle  10  with device  20  attached to inner surface  22  of windshield  16 . As illustrated in  FIG. 11A , perimeter  172  of device  20  may be visible through windshield  16 .  FIG. 11B  illustrates an exemplary representation of alignment tool  50  positioned on windshield  16  for marking the location of device  20 . As illustrated in  FIG. 11B , inner perimeter  66  of frame  52  of alignment tool  50  may generally overlap perimeter  172  of device  20 . Both device  20  and alignment tool  50  have been shown magnified in  FIGS. 11A and 11B  for clarity. 
     Returning to method  1000 , method  1000  may include a step of detaching alignment tool  50  and device  20  from windshield  16  (Step  1004 ). Detaching alignment tool  50  may include releasing connectors  54  from outer surface  24  of windshield  16 . Device  20  may also be detached from inner surface  22  of windshield  16  according to instructions provided, for example, by a manufacturer of device  20 . It is contemplated that when there may be more than one device  20  attached to windshield  16 , steps  1002  and  1004  may have to be performed multiple times, using a separate alignment tool  50  for each device  20 . In this exemplary scenario, multiple outlines  174  may be marked on outer surface  24  of windshield  16 , each of the outlines  174  representing a perimeter  172  of a corresponding device  20 . 
     Method  1000  may include a step of disassembling windshield  16  from vehicle  10  (Step  1006 ).  FIG. 11C  illustrates an exemplary representation of windshield  16  after it has been disassembled from vehicle  10 . As illustrated in  FIG. 11C , outer surface  24  of windshield  16  may have outline  174  of device  20 . Method  1000  may include a step of attaching alignment tool  50  to windshield  16  (Step  1008 ) after windshield  16  has been disassembled from vehicle  10 . Attaching alignment tool  50  may include positioning frame  52  such that inner perimeter  66  of opening  64  generally overlaps outline  174  on outer surface  24  of windshield  16 . Attaching alignment tool  50  may further include firmly attaching connectors  54  (e.g., suction cups) to outer surface  24  of windshield  16 .  FIG. 11D  illustrates an exemplary representation of windshield  16  after it has been disassembled from vehicle  10  and after alignment tool  50  has been attached to windshield  16 . In  FIG. 11D , link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  have been omitted for clarity. 
     Method  1000  may include a step of determining first distances of alignment tool  50  relative to one or more edges  112 ,  114 ,  116 ,  118 , corners  120 ,  122 ,  124 ,  126 , and/or positions  128 ,  130 ,  132 ,  134  of windshield  16  (Step  1010 ). Determining first distances may include attaching hook  92  of first link member  56  to first edge  112  at first position  128 , attaching hook  92  of second link member  58  to second edge  114  at second position  130 , attaching hook  92  of third link member  60  to third edge  116  at third position  132 , and attaching hook  92  of fourth link member  62  to fourth edge  118  at fourth position  134 . 
       FIG. 11E  illustrates an exemplary representation of windshield  16  after hooks  92  of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  have been attached to first, second, third, and fourth edges  112 ,  114 ,  116 ,  118 , respectively, of windshield  16 . Determining first distances may include inserting clip  102  into clip receiver  104  of quick disconnect couplers  98  of one or more of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 , and  62 . Determining first distances may also include pulling on free ends  106  of one or more of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 , and  62  so that first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 , and  62  are taut (i.e. fully extended with no loose portions) and have no slack.  FIG. 11F  illustrates an exemplary representation of windshield  16  after the one or more couplers have been engaged and the lengths of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 , and  62  have been adjusted. 
     Determining first distances may also include determining a distance of alignment tool  50  from one or more of edges  112 ,  114 ,  116 ,  118 , one or more of corners  120 ,  122 ,  124 ,  126 , and/or one or more of first, second, third, and fourth positions  128 ,  130 ,  132 ,  134 . In one exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 11F , a first reference distance “D 1 ” may be measured between corner  156  of alignment tool  50  and corner  126  of windshield  16 . As also illustrated in  FIG. 11F , a second reference distance “D 2 ” may be measured between corner  158  of alignment tool  50  and corner  124  of windshield  16 . Although the dimensions D 1  and D 2  have been described relative to corners  156  and  158  of frame  52 , it is contemplated that these dimensions may be measured between any of the one or more corners of frame  52  and any of the one or more corners  120 ,  122 ,  124 ,  126  of windshield  16 . It is also contemplated that any number of such dimensional measurements may be made between locations on frame  52  and locations on windshield  16 . As illustrated in  FIG. 11F  measurements D 1  and D 2  may be made using, for example, a tape measure. Other measurement methods including, for example, digital instruments, etc., are also contemplated and consistent with the disclosed embodiments. 
     Method  1000  may include a step of detaching alignment tool  50  from windshield  16  (Step  1012 ). Detaching alignment tool  50  may include disconnecting quick disconnect couplers  98 , detaching hooks  92  from first, second, third, and fourth edges  112 ,  114 ,  116 ,  118  of windshield  16 , and releasing connectors  54  from outer surface  24  of windshield  16 , without changing the lengths of inner sections  94  and/or outer sections  96  of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 , and  62 . It is contemplated that when there may be more than one device  20  attached to windshield  16 , steps  1008  through  1012  may have to be performed multiple times, using a separate alignment tool  50  for each device  20 . In this exemplary scenario, first distances may be separately determined using the separate alignment tools  50  for each of the plurality of devices  20  attached to windshield  16 . 
     Method  1000  may include a step of attaching alignment tool  50  to replacement windshield  170  (Step  1014 ).  FIG. 11G  illustrates an exemplary assembly  178  of alignment tool  50  with replacement windshield  170 . Replacement windshield  170  may have an outer surface  180 . Replacement windshield  170  may also include a first edge  182  and a second edge  184  disposed opposite first edge  182 . Replacement windshield  170  may also have a third edge  186 , which may extend between first edge  182  and second edge  184 . In addition, replacement windshield  170  may have a fourth edge  188 , extending between first edge  182  and second edge  184 . Fourth edge  188  may be disposed opposite third edge  186 . Third edge  186  may intersect with first edge  182  and second edge  184  at first corner  190  and second corner  192 , respectively. Likewise, fourth edge  188  may intersect with first edge  182  and second edge  184  at third corner  194  and fourth corner  196 . 
     Attaching alignment tool  50  to replacement windshield  170  may include attaching hook  92  of first link member  56  to first edge  182 , attaching hook  92  of second link member  58  to second edge  184 , attaching hook  92  of third link member  60  to third edge  186 , and attaching hook  92  of fourth link member  62  to fourth edge  188  of replacement windshield  170 . Attaching alignment tool  50  to replacement windshield  170  may include determining a second set of positions for attaching hooks  92  of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  to first, second, third, and fourth edges  182 ,  184 ,  186 ,  188 , respectively. Determining the second set of positions may include determining fifth position  198 , sixth position  200 , seventh position  202 , and eighth position  204  on first, second, third, and fourth edges  182 ,  184 ,  186 ,  188 , respectively such that distances of alignment tool  50  from one or more of corners  190 ,  192 ,  194 ,  196 , one or more of edges  182 ,  184 ,  186 ,  188 , and/or one or more of positions  198 ,  200 ,  202 ,  204  may be about equal to corresponding distances of alignment tool  50  from corresponding corners, edges, or positions on windshield  16 . 
     For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 11G , attaching alignment tool  50  to replacement windshield  170  may include determining distance L 5  between fifth position  198  and corner  190 , distance L 6  between sixth position  200  and corner  196 , distance L 7  between seventh position  202  and corner  190 , and distance L 8  between eighth position  204  and corner  196 . Attaching alignment tool  50  to replacement windshield  170  may further include adjusting positions of hooks  92  along one of more of edges  182 ,  184 ,  186 ,  188  so that distances L 5 , L 6 , L 7 , and L 8  are equal or about equal to distances L 1 , L 2 , L 3 , and L 4 , respectively. As used in this disclosure, the phrase “about equal” indicates that two distances may differ by at most a least count measurement of the instrument being used to measure these distances. Thus, for example, two distances may be deemed to be about equal if they differ by not more than ±0.1 mm when measured with a tape measure that measures in millimeters and not more than ±⅛ th of an inch when measured with a tape measure that measures in inches. 
     In one exemplary embodiment, attaching alignment tool  50  to replacement windshield  170  may include adjusting a position of hooks  92  of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 , and  62  so that clips  102  may be insertable into clip receivers  104  of quick disconnect couplers  98  of one or more of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 , and  62 . As illustrated in  FIG. 11G , attaching alignment tool  50  to replacement windshield  170  may also include measuring a third reference distance “D 3 ” between corner  156  of alignment tool  50  and corner  196  of replacement windshield  170 , and measuring a fourth reference distance “D 4 ” between corner  158  of alignment tool  50  and corner  194  of replacement windshield  170 . Although the dimensions D 3  and D 4  have been described relative to corners  156  and  158  of frame  52 , it is contemplated that these dimensions may be measured between any of the one or more corners of frame  52  and any of the one or more corners  190 ,  192 ,  194 ,  196  of replacement windshield  170 . It is also contemplated that any number of such dimensional measurements may be made between locations on frame  52  and locations on replacement windshield  170 . As illustrated in  FIG. 11G  measurements D 3  and D 4  may be made using, for example, a tape measure. Other measurement methods including, for example, digital instruments, etc., are also contemplated. It may be necessary to adjust the positions of hooks  92  on one of more of first, second, third, and fourth edges  182 ,  184 ,  186 ,  188  to help ensure that distance D 3  is about equal to distance D 1  and that distance D 4  is about equal to distance D 2 . Attaching alignment tool  50  to replacement windshield  170  may further include attaching connectors  54  of alignment tool  50  to outer surface  180  of replacement windshield  170 . 
     Method  1000  may include a step of marking the location of device  20  on replacement windshield  170  (Step  1016 ). Marking the location may include marking an outline of inner perimeter  66  on outer surface  180  of replacement windshield  170 . In one exemplary embodiment, a writing instrument (e.g., a marker or sharpie) may be traversed along inner perimeter  66  of frame  52  to draw an outline  206  of inner perimeter  66  on outer surface  180  of replacement windshield  170 .  FIG. 11H  illustrates an exemplary representation of a replacement windshield  170  with outline  206  marked on outer surface  180 . It is contemplated that in some exemplary embodiments, marking the location may include creating an outline of inner perimeter  66  on inner surface  208  of replacement windshield  170 . 
     Method  1000  may include a step of detaching alignment tool  50  from replacement windshield  170  (Step  1018 ). Detaching alignment tools  50  from replacement windshield  170  may include steps similar to those discussed above with respect to step  1012 . It is contemplated that when there may be more than one device  20  attached to windshield  16 , steps  1014  through  1016  may have to be performed multiple times, using a corresponding separate alignment tool  50  for each device  20 . In this exemplary scenario, multiple outlines corresponding to the plurality of devices  20  may be marked on inner surface  208  of replacement windshield  170 . 
     Method  1000  may include a step of assembling replacement windshield  170  to vehicle  10  (Step  1020 ). Method  1000  may also include a step of attaching device  20  to an inner surface  208  of replacement windshield  170  (Step  1022 ). Attaching device  20  to replacement windshield  170  may include aligning device  20  such that a perimeter  172  of device  20  generally overlaps outline  206  on outer surface  180  of replacement windshield  170 . Method  1000  may allow installation of device  20  on replacement windshield  170  such that a position of device  20  relative to edges  182 ,  184 ,  186 , and  188  of replacement windshield  170  may correspond to (i.e., be about the same as or equal) to a position of device  20  relative to edges  112 ,  114 ,  116 , and  118  of windshield  16 . Thus, method  1000  may allow installation of replacement windshield  170  and device  20  without the need for reprogramming control system  28  with the position of device  20  on replacement windshield  170 . Although method  1000  has been described with respect to alignment tool  50 , one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that similar steps can be implemented for alignment tool  140 . It is contemplated that when there may be more than one device  20  attached to windshield  16 , step  1022  may have to be performed multiple times, by aligning a corresponding device  20  with its respective outline on replacement windshield  170 . 
       FIG. 12  illustrates an exemplary method  1200  of replacing a windshield  16  having device  20  attached to inner surface  22  with replacement windshield  170 , using alignment tool  160 . The order and arrangement of steps in method  1200  is provided for purposes of illustration. As will be appreciated from this disclosure, modifications may be made to method  1200  by, for example, adding, combining, removing, and/or rearranging the steps of method  1200 . 
     Method  1200  may include a step of marking the location of device  20  on windshield  16  (Step  1202 ). Marking the location may include positioning alignment tool  160  on outer surface  24  of windshield  16  so that at least one of fiducial marks  166 ,  168  may generally overlap with a corresponding similarly shaped fiducial mark on device  20 . As used in this disclosure fiducial marks  166 ,  168  may be deemed to overlap corresponding fiducial marks on device  20 , when a distance (i.e. separation), on a surface parallel to outer surface  24  of windshield  16 , between the fiducial marks may be less than a fraction of a millimeter or a fraction of an inch. It is contemplated that that an operator may determine whether the fiducial marks overlap based on visual observations. Marking the location may also include firmly attaching frame  142  of alignment tool  160  to outer surface  24  of windshield  16  using connectors  54 . 
     Method  1200  may include a step of detaching device  20  from windshield  16  (Step  1204 ). Step  1204  may include processes similar to those discussed above with regard to, for example, step  1004  of method  1000 . Method  1200  may include a step of disassembling windshield  16  from vehicle  10  (Step  1206 ). In one exemplary embodiment, windshield  16  may be disassembled from vehicle  10  without detaching alignment tool  160  from outer surface  24  of windshield  16 . In another exemplary embodiment, alignment tool  160  may be detached from outer surface  24  of windshield  16  after marking an outline of outer perimeter  164  of alignment tool  160  on outer surface  24  of windshield  16 . 
     Method  1200  may include a step of determining first distances of alignment tool  160  (Step  1208 ). Step  1208  may include processes similar to those discussed above with regard to, for example, step  1010  of method  1000 . Method  1200  may include a step of detaching alignment tool  160  from windshield  16  (Step  1210 ) and attaching alignment tool  160  to replacement windshield  170  (Step  1212 ). Steps  1210  and  1212  may include processes similar to those discussed above with respect to, for example, steps  1012  and  1014 , respectively, of method  1000 . 
     Method  1200  may include a step of partially detaching alignment tool  160  from replacement windshield  170  (Step  1214 ). Partially detaching alignment tool  160  may include disconnecting quick disconnect couplers  98  of one or more of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62 , and removing hooks  92  of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  from first, second, third, and fourth edges  182 ,  184 ,  186 ,  188 , respectively, of replacement windshield  170 . After partially detaching alignment tool  160  from replacement windshield  170 , alignment tool  160  may remain attached to outer surface  180  of replacement windshield  170  via connectors  54 . 
     Method  1200  may include a step of assembling replacement windshield  170  to vehicle  10  without detaching connectors  54  of alignment tool  160  from outer surface  180  of replacement windshield  170  (Step  1216 ). Method  1200  may further include attaching device  20  to inner surface  208  of replacement windshield  170  (Step  1218 ). Attaching device  20  to inner surface  208  of replacement windshield  170  may include adjusting a position of device  20  such that at least one fiducial mark on device  20  generally overlaps with a corresponding one of fiducial marks  166 ,  168  on plate  162  of alignment tool  160 . Method  1200  may include a step of detaching alignment tool  160  from replacement windshield  170  after assembly of device  20  has been completed (Step  1220 ). Thus, method  1200  may allow installation of device  20  on replacement windshield  170  such that a position of device  20  relative to edges  182 ,  184 ,  186 , and  188  of replacement windshield  170  may correspond to a position of device  20  relative to edges  112 ,  114 ,  116 , and  118  of windshield  16 . Method  1200  may allow installation of replacement windshield  170  and device  20  without the need for reprogramming control system  28  with the position of device  20  on replacement windshield  170 . 
     In one exemplary embodiment, step  1212  may include marking a location of alignment tool  140  on replacement windshield  170 . Marking the location may include marking an outline of outer perimeter  164  of plate  162  of alignment tool  160  on outer surface  180  of replacement windshield  170 . In one exemplary embodiment, a writing instrument (e.g., a marker or sharpie) may be traversed along outer perimeter  164  to draw an outline of outer perimeter  164  on outer surface  180 . In this exemplary embodiment, step  1212  may include detaching alignment tool  160  from replacement windshield  170  after marking an outline of alignment tool  160  on outer surface  180  of replacement windshield  170 . In this exemplary embodiment, process  1200  may proceed to step  1216  of assembling replacement windshield  170  to vehicle  10  and attaching alignment tool  160  to outer surface  180  of replacement windshield  170  so that outer perimeter  164  of alignment tool  160  generally overlaps outline  206  on replacement windshield  170 . After attaching alignment tool  160  to replacement windshield, which has been assembled to vehicle  10 , steps  1218  and  1220  may be performed as described above. As discussed above for method  1000 , when there are multiple devices  20  attached to windshield  16 , steps  1202 ,  1204 ,  1208 - 1214 , and  1218 - 1220  may have to be repeated multiple times, once for each of the plurality of devices  20 . 
       FIG. 13  illustrates an exemplary method  1300  of replacing windshield  16  having device  20  attached to inner surface  22  with a replacement windshield  170 , using alignment tool  50 . The order and arrangement of steps in method  1300  is provided for purposes of illustration. As will be appreciated from this disclosure, modifications may be made to method  1300  by, for example, adding, combining, removing, and/or rearranging the steps of method  1300 . 
     Method  1300  may include a step of attaching alignment tool  50  to vehicle  10  (Step  1302 ). Attaching alignment tool  50  to vehicle  10  may include positioning frame  52  such that inner perimeter  66  of opening  64  may overlap or generally overlap with a perimeter  172  of device  20  attached to inner surface  22  of windshield  16 . Attaching alignment tool  50  may further include firmly attaching connectors  54  (e.g., suction cups) to outer surface  24  of windshield  16 . 
     Method  1300  may include a step of determining first distances of alignment tool  50  relative to one or more edges  212 ,  214 ,  216 ,  218  (see  FIG. 14 ), corners  220 ,  222 ,  224 ,  226  (see  FIG. 14 ), and/or positions  228 ,  230 ,  232 ,  234  (see  FIG. 14 ) of body  236  of vehicle  10  (Step  1304 ). Determining first distances may include attaching edge connection member  92  of first link member  56  to first edge  212  at first position  228 , attaching edge connection member  92  of second link member  58  to second edge  214  at second position  230 , attaching edge connection member  92  of third link member  60  to third edge  216  at third position  232 , and attaching edge connection member  92  of fourth link member  62  to fourth edge  218  at fourth position  234 . Edge connection member  92  may be a suction cup, or any other type of connector known in the art that may allow second ends  78 ,  82 ,  86 ,  90  of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  to be attached to a body  236  of vehicle  10 . 
       FIG. 14  illustrates an exemplary representation of vehicle  10  after edge connection members  92  of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 ,  62  have been attached to first, second, third, and fourth edges  212 ,  214 ,  216 ,  218 , respectively, of vehicle  10 . Determining first distances may include performing processes similar to those discussed above with respect to, for example, step  1010  of method  1000 . 
     Returning to  FIG. 13 , method  1300  may include a step of detaching alignment tool  50  from vehicle  10  (Step  1306 ). Detaching alignment tool  50  may include disconnecting quick disconnect couplers  98 , detaching edge connection members  92  from first, second, third, and fourth edges  212 ,  214 ,  216 ,  218  of vehicle  10 , and releasing connectors  54  from outer surface  24  of windshield  16 , without changing the lengths of inner sections  94  and/or outer sections  96  of first, second, third, and fourth link members  56 ,  58 ,  60 , and  62 . It is contemplated that when there may be more than one device  20  attached to windshield  16 , steps  1302  through  1306  may have to be performed multiple times, using a separate alignment tool  50  for each device  20 . In this exemplary scenario, first distances may be separately determined using the separate alignment tools  50  for each of the plurality of devices  20  attached to windshield  16 . 
     Method  1300  may include a step of replacing windshield  16  with a replacement windshield  170  (Step  1308 ). Step  1308  may include processes similar to those discussed above with respect to, for example, step  1020  of method  1000 . Method  1300  may include a step of re-attaching alignment tool  50  to vehicle  10  after replacement windshield  170  has been assembled on vehicle  10  (Step  1310 ). Re-attaching alignment tool  50  to vehicle  10  may include processes similar to those discussed above with respect to, for example, step  1302 . 
     Method  1300  may include a step of marking the location of device  20  on replacement windshield  170  (Step  1312 ). Marking the location of device  20  may include processes similar to those discussed above with respect to, for example, step  1016  of method  1000 . Method  1000  may include a step of detaching alignment tool  50  from vehicle  10  (Step  1314 ). Detaching alignment tool  50  from vehicle  10  may include processes similar to those discussed above with respect to, for example, step  1306 . Method  1300  may also include a step of attaching device  20  to an inner surface  208  of replacement windshield  170  (Step  1316 ). Attaching device  20  to replacement windshield  170  may include aligning device  20  such that a perimeter  172  of device  20  generally overlaps outline  206  on outer surface  180  of replacement windshield  170 . Method  1000  may allow installation of device  20  on replacement windshield  170  such that a position of device  20  relative to edges  212 ,  214 ,  216 ,  218  of vehicle  10  may correspond to (i.e., be about the same as or equal) to a position of device  20  relative to edges  112 ,  114 ,  116 ,  118  of windshield  16 . Thus, method  1300  may allow installation of replacement windshield  170  and device  20  without the need for reprogramming control system  28  with the position of device  20  on replacement windshield  170 . Although method  1300  has been described with respect to alignment tool  50 , one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that similar steps can be implemented for alignment tool  140 . It is contemplated that when there may be more than one device  20  attached to windshield  16 , steps  1310 - 1314  may have to be performed multiple times, by aligning a corresponding device  20  with its respective outline on replacement windshield  170 . 
     In another exemplary embodiment, it is contemplated that step  1312  may be eliminated from method  1300 . In this exemplary embodiment, step  1316  may be performed before performing step  1314 . Thus, for example, in this exemplary embodiment, device  20  may be attached to replacement windshield  170  by aligning device  20  such that a perimeter  172  of device  20  overlaps or generally overlaps inner perimeter  66  of frame  52  of alignment tool  50 . Alignment tool  50  may be detached from vehicle  10  using the processes discussed above with respect to, for example, step  1314 , after device  20  has been attached to replacement windshield  170 . It is contemplated that when there may be more than one device  20  associated with vehicle  10 , steps  1316  and  1314  may have to be performed multiple times in that order, using alignment tools  50  having first distances corresponding to a respective device  20 , to assemble the multiple devices  20  to replacement windshield  170 . 
     It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the disclosed device alignment tools and the disclosed methods of replacing a windshield with the device alignment tool without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Other embodiments of the disclosed device alignment tools and methods will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the device alignment tools and methods disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope of the disclosure being indicated by the following claims and their equivalents.