Translating Tapered Gear Set

[richg1]

I am trying to determine whether it is possible to have two mating tapered gears, ie. a large and a small gear, such that the small gear can translate axially and due to the translation along the taper expand outward.

I understand that the small gear would need to be flexibly retained in the radial direction, and that the gear system may not be very efficient, but for the application in question I am not too concerened about that.

I have seached through various sources but haven't come across anything yet...

Any help much appreciated...