It’s constructed in a briefcase! I suggest this MAY mean it’s meant to be portable on a fairly regular basis. But not just portable, which would likely call for a rudimentary custom (probably wooden) container with the best dimensions for holding the device. This device appears to be cleverly designed to collapse and fold specifically into the briefcase.

This MAY imply the builder did not want it known that they were carrying anything out of the ordinary. I suggest perhaps a device to be secretly carried to places where it could be plugged in. Like to people’s houses. Finding it “under the floorboards” supports- in the absence of further info – the notion of secrecy.

In a primitive, homemade way, this somehow reminds me of a bogus lie detector, seance prop, or even an attempt to copy an “E-Meter” as used in Scientology. (These too are matters in which I am clueless). But is it possible that a subject was meant to rest their forearms on the left side “IV Drip” bars, and grab the right side copper “T-bar” with both hands to complete a circuit? There would need to be feedback, probably provided by the bell ringing occasionally, or ringing faster and slower in response to the Administrator’s questions.