Thanks to brakemeister and James H. for following up on my first post in this thread. I realize that this subject is a bit arcane when compared to the topics covered in the more popular threads, but, as I see it, if you are talking about folding bikes, you are talking about hinges and clamps. Moreover, unlike handlebar type, gearing, tire size and so on, it's quite literally a life-or-death topic.
Brakemeister's comments regarding wear and tear on a "hook" based hinge clamp were duly noted, and he seems to make a good point. But I went back and looked at the Dahon clamp and I am still amazed that a single steel rod, perhaps 3 to 5 mm in diameter (it varies), carries all of the stress of the handlepost at the hinge.
Regarding James' suggestion, I have never consulted the Dahon web site for technical information. Is it simply a question of sending an e-mail inquiry?