Where my model requires an array of identical components, solid or cut, I seem to have the choice of:-

1)     Sketching an array of identical profiles and extruding a multibody part, or

2)     Sketching a single profile and patterning an array of that part.

Is there any difference in the end?

I ask because I will analyse the physically symmetrical assembly and the loads will be applied assymetrically.  I want to be sure that the analysis can identify individual components of the array and calculate their individual loads.

I am concerned that the components might be lumped together and the analysis will give a wrong answer.