Just chiming in, probably once and never again, I've been following, but since I'm not in the aviation industry... But I do have a degree in textile engineering and that last photo is the shell of a sewing machine, about 20/ 25 years old.
>>>I like the idea posted above of a sewing machine shell. But on a google search of images of sewing machines there is nothing that has holes for two dials at the bottom.<<<
The "bottom" is actually the top. The holes are for switches for straight/zigzag stitches and needle positioning (left, center, right).
best wishes Michiru (from now silent again, sorry for intruding)