A model for the approximate calculation of elastic beds, which is based on the concept of pressure-distribution angle, is proposed. The model can be used for an elastic half plane, half space, and a layer of finite thickness. In the latter case, the computational scheme reduces to a Winkler model, if the distribution angle is a right angle. It is pointed out that the settlement coefficients computed for an elastic half space and layer of finite thickness differ by only a small constant value.