Yes, actually, there are two ways. One way is to use the merge function the second is to use inheritance features. Inheritance may be preferable, but will have a limitation when mixed sheet-metal and standard parts are used. I suggest assembling an empty part into the assembly that contains the parts to be merged than activate this part and start "assembling" the parts as merge/inheritance features. Works well. Extra steps can be used to break the parent/child relationships on the feature placement if necessary.
Indeed. Shrinkwrap parts work well. Best bet is to use the merged solid option. I have had poor luck, however, maintaining associativity with merged solid shrinkwraps.
