Takata, founded in 1933 as a textile maker, has since applied its knowledge of military parachute harnesses to develop safety products for passenger vehicles. It manufactures airbags as well as seat belts, steering wheels, child safety seats, and safety electronics, such as crash sensors. The company also produces interior parts -- head rests, arm rests, visors, and trim. Takata operates through 50-plus companies (R&D, manufacturing, and sales) in 20 countries. The company sells to nearly all of the world's major automakers; about a third of its sales come from the US.