[obdl3945]

I would tend to agree with Clint and Von Alles on this one... the 'standard' position for the flotation device container on the starboard side was aft of the set of windows this housing covers. This fitment would appear to have an opening at the front which suggests to me that whatever was inside may have been a) taking a reading from the airflow outside the aircraft and b) situated over the original window area as it clearly was, may have been deliberately positioned there in order that it could be seen/accessed/manipulated more easily by a crew member.