Abstract: A homokinetic joint for linking a driving shaft and a driven shaft of an automotive steering column for transmission of rotation between the driving shaft and the driven shaft. The joint has two opposite end yokes with a coupling yoke intermediate the two end yokes. The end yokes each have an end hub for linking a respective one of the shafts thereto and branched arms defining a yoke or fork opposite the hub for linking the end yoke to the coupling yoke. Two pivotable cross-pieces link the two end yokes respectively to the coupling yoke for positioning the axes of the shafts for homokinetic transmission of torque. A center ball joint unit has a ball stud and spherical ball fixed on one of the end yokes and a guide carried by the other of the end yokes. A sleeve is disposed in the guide and the ball is disposed in the sleeve. The spherical ball is angularly movable in the sleeve for angular offset variation between the shafts during transmission of torque.

Abstract: A device for coupling two shafts adapted to turn about a common axis includes a rotational coupling system associated with an axial retaining system. The rotational coupling system includes conjugate profiles at the ends of the shafts. The axial retaining system comprises a two-part sleeve coupled axially to the shaft and cooperating with a spring disposed inside the sleeve. The end of each shaft is surrounded by the sleeve. The spring operates after releasing an arming system including studs on the sleeve cooperating with cams at the end of one of the shafts.