This is a binary abacus. Binary code is the type of code computers use to read numbers. They use powers of two and 0's and 1's to show numbers. For example, the last picture shows 01010010, as you read it from left to right. 01010010 is 82, as there is a 2, a 16, and a 64. 

     Sorry about the blurry photos, my iPad does not have a good enough camera. 

     To assemble, you slide the dowels into one of the holes, notch up. It is meant to be tight, so you may have to put some force in. Then, you slide a bead over the dowel, then place the other end of the dowel into the corresponding hole.

If you print it all in one color, like I did, make sue to paint the beads, notch, and numbers afterwards