How can I fix the "empty component" problem

[Asdas]

Hi,

I had a model that was accepted and when the 3d layer update started, I got this message:

We're having a problem with the model you submitted

Unfortunately, we've run into a problem while trying to process this model for Google Earth's 3D Buildings layer:

Empty component(s) found. The model you submitted contains one or more component definitions that do not contain any faces. The component may consist of only edges, or it may be completely empty. We recommend using the Outliner in Google SketchUp to find and delete empty components, then re-uploading.

We would be happy to re-consider any corrected models you'd like to submit. Thanks very much for your ongoing contribution to the worldwide geo-modeling effort. We look forward to seeing more of your models soon.

I checked the model using the outliner but couldn't find the empty component. This is my first time to get this error and my first time to use the outliner.

Can anyone please check the model and tell me what to do. This is the model:

http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/details?mid=321b6fddea10354c7f6e537aa4ba3231 

Thank you in advance.

[Auquicu]

Sometimes, the real reason is a problem with the file created bt Sketchup. I once had the same with a model that had no components, and solved it by using the Bomb plugin.

http://sketchuppluginreviews.com/2010/01/25/the-bomb-google-sketchup-plugin-review/

Jorge ("Auquicu")

[Richard Pedicini]

Given the stage at which the error occurs - only when it's processed - trial and error is difficult.

There is only one component, and it has no subcomponents, and it's not empty.

The only thing that strikes me as odd about the model is that the default layer is entirely empty.

Try opening the model, eliminating the terrain layers after unlocking them (sending the data to the Great Bitbucket in the Sky) and then eliminate the "lights" layer, telling it to incorporate the data into the default layer.

Then you will no longer have an empty default layer. Should make the .skp file smaller, too.

If it doesn't work, it will at least do no harm.

 - Richard

[SnowTiger]

It can be difficult to find these empty components.

One way to look for them is to use SketchUp's "Outliner".
It will allow you to see the hierarchy of Nested Groups/Components which might help you spot the offending component.

[CraigD]

+1 for the Outliner. It's not a very widely used tool, but it sure is helpful when looking for nested components!

 

     - CraigD

[SnowTiger]

For those not familiar with SU's Outliner, I highly recommend watching this video called "Working With Large Models".
It is a long video but well worth the time spent because it shows in great detail, the advantages of working with Outliner.

Furthermore, there is an Excellent selection of videos from the 3D Base Camp 2008 ... These are ALL well worth watching. I recommend them to everyone who has not yet seen them.

Of those videos, another one of my favorites is the "Working With Terrain and Other Irregular Surfaces" video.
It will show you many great techniques for using the Sandbox Tools. Again, it is well worth the time spent watching.