The technical characteristics and challenges of the current integrated mode of the integrated pulp hydraulic riser and the self-propelled mineral collector for surface mining vessels are described from the top-level system mode of the mineral development aiming at the development frontier of the deep-sea mining technology. The innovative modes of the surface distributed and underwater distributed mineral development are proposed for the technical problems that are difficult to solve in the mining of the polymetallic nodules, such as the surface and underwater system series reliability, operation in the severe sea conditions, energy consumption and economy and emergency release. The conceptual scheme, main system configuration and the key technical indicators of the two modes are introduced. It is suggested that the engineering demonstration and the verification of the overall system process of the deep-sea mineral development can be carried out based on the integrated mode of mining, transportation and storage. The advanced technologies, such as the surface distributed and underwater distributed mineral development, are promoted to develop the all-weather, high-production, low energy consumption, environmental protection and intelligent mineral development system.