Battery thermal event detection system using an electrical conductor with a thermally interruptible insulator

A method for detecting a battery thermal event, the method comprising the steps of:

• positioning an insulated conductive member in proximity to an external surface of at least one battery, wherein said insulated conductive member is comprised of a conductive core and an insulator covering said conductive core;
• monitoring a voltage corresponding to said conductive core of said insulated conductive member, wherein said voltage is within a first range of voltages when a battery temperature corresponding to said at least one battery is within a prescribed temperature range, and wherein said voltage is within a second range of voltages when said battery temperature exceeds a predetermined temperature and a portion of said insulator melts, wherein said predetermined temperature is outside of said prescribed temperature range;
• outputting a first signal to a system controller when said voltage is within said first range of voltages;
• and
• outputting a second signal to said system controller when said voltage is within said second range of voltages.