Abstract: An alignment tool to be used in a method for the manufacture of an electrode catheter assembly includes an alignment handle, a grooved longitudinal axis which is opposed to the alignment handle and which includes a channel or groove in the radial direction, wherein the grooved longitudinal axis has alignment grooves and alignment surfaces to precisely allow alignment and separation of electrode rings; two arms or tines formed by the channel or groove, wherein the arms or tines are compressible in radial direction to the grooved longitudinal axis; a removable proximal shoulder ring, wherein the proximal shoulder ring has a shoulder surface and an internal opening, wherein the internal opening allows the shoulder proximal ring to slide on or off the grooved longitudinal axis, a control surface, and a distal shoulder surface.