The phrase "several different purposes" means that something or someone is being used for multiple reasons, goals or objectives. It implies variety and versatility in how an item or person can be utilized to achieve diverse ends.
Sentences with «several different purposes»
Why sell toys that kids can use for several different purposes when you can sell one that does X, one that does Y and one that does Z? (crunchydomesticgoddess.com)
You can use a range of different sizes of wheels to get several different purposes. (geekwrapped.com)