Hi Tim

> There shouldn't be any problem turning a queen cell on it's side,
> or even upside down for a short period of time.  I routinely turn them
> over briefly to inspect them, and transport capped cells on their side
> with no ill effects

A great many beekeepers treat cells this way and consider that there were no
ill effects, obviously the degree of movement or vibration has a bearing on
the amount of damage, but at what point does this damage start? or is it a
linear increase from zero?

> The problem arises when they are allowed to
> develop in a unnatural orientation, or a ripe queen cell is placed in
> a hive in the incorrect orientation.

Unnatural orientation is not in itself a problem until vibration or shock
come into the equation.

Queencell misplacement is at least under the control of the beekeeper and
any possible damage will vary according to what stage of development the
pupa was when put in the innappropriate position.

Best Regards & 73s... Dave Cushman, G8MZY
Beekeeping & Bee Breeding Website...
http://website.lineone.net/~dave.cushman