Method and device for applying a film to a three-dimensional article

Device for applying a film to a three-dimensional article, comprising:

• an inflatable shape (12) having at least one opening (13) connected or connectable to a source of heated gas;
• wherein the inflatable shape (12) is configurable in a deflated configuration and in an inflated configuration when the heated gas is introduced into the inflatable shape (12) through said at least one opening (13);
• wherein the inflatable shape (12) is configured and sized to allow an article (2) to be placed on said inflatable shape (12), at least when the inflatable shape (12) is in the deflated configuration;
• wherein in the inflated configuration, the inflatable shape (12) is configured for pressing against the article (2) and for adhering, to the article (2), a film (3) interposed between the inflatable shape (12) and the article (3);
• the inflatable shape (12) being impermeable to the heated gas;
• and
• the inflatable shape (12) having a thermal transmittance greater than 600 W/m2K.