since there are multiple distances, you can add wrap the cord/wire/rope with some tape or paint
and then monitor the cord until the paint comes up.
one of the hardest things will be trying to get enough tension on the rope at 5 meters.
if overhead, look at how ski lifts do it.
as for the programming all you needs it a little acceleration/deceleration and then get distance
note that if you want 10 meters or should I say, 10.000 meters, the idea of a switch at each stop is good.
measuring distance by pulley turns is easy, just start to decelerate as you approach any desired point.