The function of the sensors is to track and monitor every time the wheel with reflective tape on the AEV turns. It is able to track this data, and convert it into identifiable and recognizable units. It monitors these rotations in order to track of how far the AEV has traveled, better enabling the programmer/program to control exactly how far the AEV goes, how fast it goes, etc.
The sensors have a major importance in terms of the MCR, as it enables the teams, and respective subdivisions to control the AEV, and be able to test it effectively and, more importantly, accurately. They are also necessary to help us build familiarity with the user interface and how it works during our testing of the AEV and during the testing of subsequent tweaks that are made throughout the process.
Lastly, the sensors provide the team the ability to manipulate one AEV design to perform under many different constraints and track variables.